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Call of the Norns #1
Fates Illuminated
Embark on a time travel fantasy adventure in the Viking era full of action, romance, and Norse mythology in the Call of the Norns series.
By age 31, I always imagined my life would be settled — career, family, maybe even that white picket fence. Instead, my main man is a 120-pound mutt named Thor, and the highlights of my weekend are takeout and scrolling Instagram. Add a bottle of wine, and suddenly I’m drunkenly booking a trip to Sweden.
Do I know how to ride horses, or hike the backcountry, or speak Swedish? Absolutely not. But since when did a little logic stop me?
Too stubborn to admit my mistake, I land in Stockholm, expecting to see the Northern Lights, nurse sore muscles, and, heaven forbid, pee in the woods.
What I don’t expect is for my horse to kick me down a hill and somehow back through time, or that maybe all of this was set in motion by Fate centuries before.
By age 31, I always imagined my life would be settled — career, family, maybe even that white picket fence. Instead, my main man is a 120-pound mutt named Thor, and the highlights of my weekend are takeout and scrolling Instagram. Add a bottle of wine, and suddenly I’m drunkenly booking a trip to Sweden.
Do I know how to ride horses, or hike the backcountry, or speak Swedish? Absolutely not. But since when did a little logic stop me?
Too stubborn to admit my mistake, I land in Stockholm, expecting to see the Northern Lights, nurse sore muscles, and, heaven forbid, pee in the woods.
What I don’t expect is for my horse to kick me down a hill and somehow back through time, or that maybe all of this was set in motion by Fate centuries before.
300 pages, Paperback
First published April 26, 2022
55 people are currently reading
1269 people want to read
About the author
Aimee Vance
15 books227 followers
Fueled by peach tea and chaos, Aimee Vance writes heartwarming and hilarious romance stories. She holds a B.S. in Public Relations from Texas Christian University and has always been an avid fantasy and romance reader.
Residing in Texas with her husband, two young daughters, and Labrador Retriever, Aimee loves to transport readers to worlds hidden between the pages where magic and love intertwine. She prefers sassy heroines, grumpy heroes, and enough humor to keep you chuckling with every page.
Follow along on Instagram @aimeevancebooks
Residing in Texas with her husband, two young daughters, and Labrador Retriever, Aimee loves to transport readers to worlds hidden between the pages where magic and love intertwine. She prefers sassy heroines, grumpy heroes, and enough humor to keep you chuckling with every page.
Follow along on Instagram @aimeevancebooks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
November 6, 2023
Hi, I'm Aimee! I wrote this book! You can ignore my review if you want, but I figured I'd give you a hint of insight as to why I wrote it and why I think you'll love it.
Shelbie, the main character, is 31. We meet her on the night of her birthday, and unmiraculously, she still does not have life figured out. 30 wasn't a magical number that made her entire life fall into place. That's a hard pill to swallow, so she decides it's time for an adventure. Except, the adventure turns into much more than she bargained for. She's a loveable disaster, and is surrounded by people that make her evaluate who she is, and what she wants out of her life.
If you liked Outlander and are down for a fantasy adventure a la Game of Thrones (but much less angsty and much more Hot Mess Express), then you should read this book.
If you're ready for a main character in her thirties, then you should read this book.
If you love really, really, ridiculously good-looking men who adore their women, then you should read this book.
If you don't like to chuckle in public while reading, then you should still read it, but alone. At home. By yourself. I bet your dog won't judge you.
Zippers up, y'all. I hope you love it.
Shelbie, the main character, is 31. We meet her on the night of her birthday, and unmiraculously, she still does not have life figured out. 30 wasn't a magical number that made her entire life fall into place. That's a hard pill to swallow, so she decides it's time for an adventure. Except, the adventure turns into much more than she bargained for. She's a loveable disaster, and is surrounded by people that make her evaluate who she is, and what she wants out of her life.
If you liked Outlander and are down for a fantasy adventure a la Game of Thrones (but much less angsty and much more Hot Mess Express), then you should read this book.
If you're ready for a main character in her thirties, then you should read this book.
If you love really, really, ridiculously good-looking men who adore their women, then you should read this book.
If you don't like to chuckle in public while reading, then you should still read it, but alone. At home. By yourself. I bet your dog won't judge you.
Zippers up, y'all. I hope you love it.
April 11, 2022
“Plus, I was sick and tired of main characters barely out of their teens. No one knew what they wanted from life at 22. I still didn’t know what I wanted from life, and I was 31.” - Fates Illuminated
I. LOVE. THIS. BOOK. I absolutely devoured it. The MC Shelbie is so relatable and just…normal. Which I loved. And as a 30-something, can I just say how refreshing it is to read about 30-something’s also having epic fantasy adventures? Because even though we’re in our 30s, we can still have cool fantasy adventures and swoon worthy romances too 😂
Here’s another reason I love Shelbie:
“I’m all in on a one-bed trope, sure. Hand me a dark-haired, morally grey man and a small inn any day of the week. Only one remaining room the two main characters have to share? I’ll eat that shit up. I don’t care that it’s cliche; I love it.”
Tell me you don’t freaking love her 😂 also her love interest? Broody. Tall. Dark. Forced to share a bed with Shelbie. Forced to ride horseback with Shelbie. Grumpy vs Sunshine…so many good tropes here.
Read this book. And then slowly waste away with me while we anxiously wait for book two omg 😭
Thanks to the author for gifting me a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I. LOVE. THIS. BOOK. I absolutely devoured it. The MC Shelbie is so relatable and just…normal. Which I loved. And as a 30-something, can I just say how refreshing it is to read about 30-something’s also having epic fantasy adventures? Because even though we’re in our 30s, we can still have cool fantasy adventures and swoon worthy romances too 😂
Here’s another reason I love Shelbie:
“I’m all in on a one-bed trope, sure. Hand me a dark-haired, morally grey man and a small inn any day of the week. Only one remaining room the two main characters have to share? I’ll eat that shit up. I don’t care that it’s cliche; I love it.”
Tell me you don’t freaking love her 😂 also her love interest? Broody. Tall. Dark. Forced to share a bed with Shelbie. Forced to ride horseback with Shelbie. Grumpy vs Sunshine…so many good tropes here.
Read this book. And then slowly waste away with me while we anxiously wait for book two omg 😭
Thanks to the author for gifting me a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 25, 2022
AHHH this was so good! It has so so many of my favorite tropes! I felt like I was travelling through time just like when reading Outlander with this beautiful historical romance.
We follow Shelbie, an ordinary 31 year old woman that has an awkward encounter with a mystical woman in the streets of Denver, which completely changes her life. She ends up travelling in time to ancient Sweden and finds herself living with vikings. She left behind her best friend, job and dog, not knowing that a simple trip to the Swedish country side would end up turning her world upside down. I wish I was in her shoes, what lady wouldn't want to be rescued by a gorgeous Swedish Viking?
These two can't stand one another but at the same time are completely drawn to each other! She gets involved with the Viking tribe's day to day tasks and ends up finding love along her journey. One of my favorite elements of the story was the way that Shelbie describes this crazy time travel experience through witty and funny remarks, I found myself laughing out loud multiple times while reading. This is the perfect book for fans of Outlander and romcoms! Bonus points because it has one-bed trope ;)
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review.
We follow Shelbie, an ordinary 31 year old woman that has an awkward encounter with a mystical woman in the streets of Denver, which completely changes her life. She ends up travelling in time to ancient Sweden and finds herself living with vikings. She left behind her best friend, job and dog, not knowing that a simple trip to the Swedish country side would end up turning her world upside down. I wish I was in her shoes, what lady wouldn't want to be rescued by a gorgeous Swedish Viking?
These two can't stand one another but at the same time are completely drawn to each other! She gets involved with the Viking tribe's day to day tasks and ends up finding love along her journey. One of my favorite elements of the story was the way that Shelbie describes this crazy time travel experience through witty and funny remarks, I found myself laughing out loud multiple times while reading. This is the perfect book for fans of Outlander and romcoms! Bonus points because it has one-bed trope ;)
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review.
May 11, 2022
I've been left in reader limbo since finishing this a few days ago. This was everything I could possibly need or want in a book. I ordered the paperback IMMEDIATELY.
Aimee has a beautiful writing style, offering gorgeous detail in modern and not-so-modern settings. The wonderful blend of the 21st century with the magic and myth in Norse mythology was captivating and addictive.
Shelbie, our FMC, is a 30-something single girl, obsessed with reading and her dog.
She is such a hilarious, relatable and loveable character - I want to be her friend. Watching her evolve from a side character in everyone's lives to the leading lady was heartwarming beyond belief. Then we have our MMC, a grumpy Viking whose icy heart just needed to be melted to reveal that he's actually a giant teddy bear.
We have:
FMC in her 30s
Time travel
Vikings
Norse mythology
Grumpy MMC
One bed
One horse
Found family
A HOT SPRING
"Touch her and you die"
There is another massive thing I'd like to discuss but I'm gonna leave that out, because I audibly gasped when it happened.
Hands down, my favourite read of 2022 so far, and now in my top 5 of all-time.
Thank you, Aimee, for bringing this into the world. I cannot wait to see what you do next!
Aimee has a beautiful writing style, offering gorgeous detail in modern and not-so-modern settings. The wonderful blend of the 21st century with the magic and myth in Norse mythology was captivating and addictive.
Shelbie, our FMC, is a 30-something single girl, obsessed with reading and her dog.
She is such a hilarious, relatable and loveable character - I want to be her friend. Watching her evolve from a side character in everyone's lives to the leading lady was heartwarming beyond belief. Then we have our MMC, a grumpy Viking whose icy heart just needed to be melted to reveal that he's actually a giant teddy bear.
We have:
FMC in her 30s
Time travel
Vikings
Norse mythology
Grumpy MMC
One bed
One horse
Found family
A HOT SPRING
"Touch her and you die"
There is another massive thing I'd like to discuss but I'm gonna leave that out, because I audibly gasped when it happened.
Hands down, my favourite read of 2022 so far, and now in my top 5 of all-time.
Thank you, Aimee, for bringing this into the world. I cannot wait to see what you do next!
November 11, 2024
Thank you Aimee and Netgalley for the ebook.
This was the perfect cleanser of a book for me.
It was easy to read, the action moved fast, and the characters were likeable.
This was the perfect cleanser of a book for me.
It was easy to read, the action moved fast, and the characters were likeable.
May 4, 2022
Viking men obsessed with their women. Yes please 😇
June 14, 2025
REVIEW COPY
No notes. Not a single one. Absolutely obsessed. Haven’t read a book that gripped me quite this hard in a while. Every single character was amazing, the character arcs/development was elite. All the Norse mythology was done so well, nothing felt info dumped. The tension, the smut, the pining wrapped around little finger protective emotionally mature men, perfection.
Diving into Fates Promised, will probably finish that one this weekend. Then I’m ready to get hurt by the ARC of Fates Defied burning a hole in my kindle.
Thank you Aimee for the review copy! All views are my own
No notes. Not a single one. Absolutely obsessed. Haven’t read a book that gripped me quite this hard in a while. Every single character was amazing, the character arcs/development was elite. All the Norse mythology was done so well, nothing felt info dumped. The tension, the smut, the pining wrapped around little finger protective emotionally mature men, perfection.
Diving into Fates Promised, will probably finish that one this weekend. Then I’m ready to get hurt by the ARC of Fates Defied burning a hole in my kindle.
Thank you Aimee for the review copy! All views are my own
May 6, 2022
✨ARC Review Fates Illuminated✨
By Aimee Vance
Aimee said vikings, then she said ARC and I screamed yes, (imagine me running and tripping over all the toys scattered all over my living room to get to my kindle) everything else is a blur.
༄I truly loved the adventure that Aimee takes us on via her uber relatable MC Shelbie- also I feel it is super important to note, SHE’S 31 YA’LL! I was immediately drawn into her as a character even as she just lives her day to day life. I’m serious when I say, Shelbie is without a doubt the most relatable character I’ve ever read. I think that’s what makes this story so magical. Shelbie’s motivations are so familiar that it almost makes you wonder if you went on your own solo trip to Sweden you wouldn’t find a portal and a viking of your own.
༄Speaking of Sweden, you are absolutely transported there! When Aimee told me she has never been to Sweden herself I was shocked! Her details of not just Sweden but also of the viking world are so accurate and far from stereotypical without making you feel like you’re reading a documentary. I really appreciated that.
༄On top of the adventure, Vance created such a well thought out cast of characters. Seriously sitting here right now I feel like I miss them! She runs the gamut on both men and women so there is literally someone for everyone to fall for haha (personally, I have the wildest girl crush on Signe).
༄This is a fantasy not a romance but I love the balance that Aimee strikes here because you can’t travel back to the age of vikings & not get some action am I right? Yes I am 😜. That being said this story stays focused on Shelbie and her personal journey while allowing the romance and the lover interest to support her in that while not detracting from it. It would have been really easy for the scale to tip on the wrong side with that and it didn’t!
༄The balance of this book is my favorite. It has the right amount of adventure and mystery to draw you in without stressing you out and breaking your brain with world building. Reading is meant to be an enjoyable escape and that is exactly what this book was for me. I cannot wait for you all to get your hands on it, ⒶⓅⓇⒾⓁ ②⑥!
By Aimee Vance
Aimee said vikings, then she said ARC and I screamed yes, (imagine me running and tripping over all the toys scattered all over my living room to get to my kindle) everything else is a blur.
༄I truly loved the adventure that Aimee takes us on via her uber relatable MC Shelbie- also I feel it is super important to note, SHE’S 31 YA’LL! I was immediately drawn into her as a character even as she just lives her day to day life. I’m serious when I say, Shelbie is without a doubt the most relatable character I’ve ever read. I think that’s what makes this story so magical. Shelbie’s motivations are so familiar that it almost makes you wonder if you went on your own solo trip to Sweden you wouldn’t find a portal and a viking of your own.
༄Speaking of Sweden, you are absolutely transported there! When Aimee told me she has never been to Sweden herself I was shocked! Her details of not just Sweden but also of the viking world are so accurate and far from stereotypical without making you feel like you’re reading a documentary. I really appreciated that.
༄On top of the adventure, Vance created such a well thought out cast of characters. Seriously sitting here right now I feel like I miss them! She runs the gamut on both men and women so there is literally someone for everyone to fall for haha (personally, I have the wildest girl crush on Signe).
༄This is a fantasy not a romance but I love the balance that Aimee strikes here because you can’t travel back to the age of vikings & not get some action am I right? Yes I am 😜. That being said this story stays focused on Shelbie and her personal journey while allowing the romance and the lover interest to support her in that while not detracting from it. It would have been really easy for the scale to tip on the wrong side with that and it didn’t!
༄The balance of this book is my favorite. It has the right amount of adventure and mystery to draw you in without stressing you out and breaking your brain with world building. Reading is meant to be an enjoyable escape and that is exactly what this book was for me. I cannot wait for you all to get your hands on it, ⒶⓅⓇⒾⓁ ②⑥!
May 1, 2022
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions expressed below belong entirely to me.
What an outstanding debut novel from this amazing indie author!! I was hooked from the start and devoured the entire book in almost one sitting. If you, like me, are obsessed with Outlander to an irrational degree, this story will speak to you on a soul-deep level!!
The MC was immediately endearing to me, and not just because we share the same name! But also for her selflessness and spunky attitude. Her journey felt extremely relatable and believable and I appreciated so much this realistic portrayal of a 30-something year old woman on a quest for self-realization.
You'll find many beloved tropes in this Viking Time Travel Romance: grumpy/sunshine, one horse, one bed, forced proximity, and so many other delectable details. The ending caught me totally by surprise and I am wholly prepared for the sequel IMMEDIATELY!!
What an outstanding debut novel from this amazing indie author!! I was hooked from the start and devoured the entire book in almost one sitting. If you, like me, are obsessed with Outlander to an irrational degree, this story will speak to you on a soul-deep level!!
The MC was immediately endearing to me, and not just because we share the same name! But also for her selflessness and spunky attitude. Her journey felt extremely relatable and believable and I appreciated so much this realistic portrayal of a 30-something year old woman on a quest for self-realization.
You'll find many beloved tropes in this Viking Time Travel Romance: grumpy/sunshine, one horse, one bed, forced proximity, and so many other delectable details. The ending caught me totally by surprise and I am wholly prepared for the sequel IMMEDIATELY!!
October 19, 2022
I loved this book!
I felt like it started off a bit slow BUT later that pace made sense to me in terms of really understanding Shelbie’s normal life.
Her character was incredibly relatable and I found myself seeing Me in so many moments.
I love love LOVED the Vikings and the softer side of that very family centered culture.
The romance was 🤌🏼✨
I can’t wait to see where the rest of the story goes as we are just getting started.
I felt like it started off a bit slow BUT later that pace made sense to me in terms of really understanding Shelbie’s normal life.
Her character was incredibly relatable and I found myself seeing Me in so many moments.
I love love LOVED the Vikings and the softer side of that very family centered culture.
The romance was 🤌🏼✨
I can’t wait to see where the rest of the story goes as we are just getting started.
April 29, 2022
grumpy sunshine. One horse. Vikings. Cocky. Hot. Ugh this book. Magic. Dragons. I loved it so and cannot wait for the sequel. Domari is everything. And Magnus too. Seriously snag this one. I swooned hard and couldn’t put it down.
August 23, 2022
I was fortunate enough to beta read Fates Illuminated by Aimee Vance and it was a thrill.
If you’re a fantasy/adventure/romance fan you will devour this book. It has:
❣️intriguing and mysterious magic
❣️an adventure into the unknown
❣️Hot Vikings
❣️ loyal animal companions
❣️ a host of amazing side characters
But the real reason I think we all need to read this book is because of the main character: Shelbie.
When Aimee asked if I was interested in reading a story about a 31 year old woman who felt a little stuck in life and ends up on an adventure I said DIBS.
Shelbie will make you laugh and then look at yourself in the mirror and say “it’s time to get our shit together”. How her internal narrative evolves over this story is beautiful and I will always remember her journey.
Romance fans won’t be disappointed in this story, our grumpy male counterpart is very swoon-worthy. But this is Shelbie’s story.
Note: this is the first book in a series so there are unanswered questions (as there should be). Please go on this adventure with Shelbie you won’t be disappointed.
If you’re a fantasy/adventure/romance fan you will devour this book. It has:
❣️intriguing and mysterious magic
❣️an adventure into the unknown
❣️Hot Vikings
❣️ loyal animal companions
❣️ a host of amazing side characters
But the real reason I think we all need to read this book is because of the main character: Shelbie.
When Aimee asked if I was interested in reading a story about a 31 year old woman who felt a little stuck in life and ends up on an adventure I said DIBS.
Shelbie will make you laugh and then look at yourself in the mirror and say “it’s time to get our shit together”. How her internal narrative evolves over this story is beautiful and I will always remember her journey.
Romance fans won’t be disappointed in this story, our grumpy male counterpart is very swoon-worthy. But this is Shelbie’s story.
Note: this is the first book in a series so there are unanswered questions (as there should be). Please go on this adventure with Shelbie you won’t be disappointed.
November 15, 2022
I ADORE this book. I've always had love for Vikings, and this story embodies all the things I love about their culture. The author had clearly done her research in regard to locations, the mythology and the lore and has written this beautiful story that brings together all her knowledge.
It was such a refreshing change to follow a female main character who was in her early thirties, that still hadn't found her way in the world but was passionate about changing things.
I loved the grumpy/sunshine trope between Shelbie (the FMC) and the gorgeous Swedish viking fate brings her way (the MMC).
There's a one horse/one bed trope, the best sarcastic banter, a heart-warming found family, and a steamy scene that is to die for!
I LOVED the cliffhanger ending and I am so excited for book two!
It was such a refreshing change to follow a female main character who was in her early thirties, that still hadn't found her way in the world but was passionate about changing things.
I loved the grumpy/sunshine trope between Shelbie (the FMC) and the gorgeous Swedish viking fate brings her way (the MMC).
There's a one horse/one bed trope, the best sarcastic banter, a heart-warming found family, and a steamy scene that is to die for!
I LOVED the cliffhanger ending and I am so excited for book two!
February 20, 2022
If you want to be taken on a whirlwind adventure with wanderlust, hot springs, grumpy bearded men with forearm tattoos, twists of fate, ax throwing, heart warming friendships, and magic…. Well buckle up, here’s the book for you!
April 6, 2022
I've read this book multiple times and I love the side characters more and more every time!
This book has it all. A hot mess express FMC in her 30's, beefy Viking men, enemies to lovers, the one bed trope.....it just ticks all the boxes!!
Read this, you won't regret it!!
This book has it all. A hot mess express FMC in her 30's, beefy Viking men, enemies to lovers, the one bed trope.....it just ticks all the boxes!!
Read this, you won't regret it!!
March 10, 2025
I did not realize how much I needed a book like this until I was in the think of it. I loved it and had a great time. It had all the things I needed, and Aimee Vance just hit all the marks.
I normally save this bit as I close out my review, but this time, I want to start with it. Community. As I was getting into this book, I just didn’t realize how much I needed it. It all hit me at just the right moment. The warmth and ease I felt at the people who surrounded Shelbie. From the people who already loved her to the ones who were just welcomed her into their lives. There was one point where I had to take a minute while reading and soak in it all. Vance did such an incredible job of making me, as the reader, feel at ease, making me feel welcomed, all through Shelbie’s eyes. To have humans be so kind and welcoming to a stranger. To bring her into their hearts so easily. I just loved every second and wanted to stay in that place.
Ok! Now to the good stuff.
Shelbie is me, and I am Shelbie. So much of her current experience, I often find myself there as well. Vance always seems to find the deep parts of me and creates a character that speaks to it. But I also think it's something so many people feel. Shelbie is a mess. She feels lost. But she’s also determined, kind, and strong. The problem is that she has gotten into a place where she is waiting for life to happen to her instead of living it to her fullest. I think it's so easy to get caught in that place. Sometimes, we just need a good kick to get us shaken out of it. And the journey she goes on! I loved being along the journey with her! Give me a pretzel for breakfast, and I’m ready to take on the world!
Domari. Oh, Domari. I do love a broody grump. A big ole Grinch. A secret softy. I love him so much. I love his love for Shelbie, too. It's just so good. He has a history, and I can’t wait to dive into it more!
As I said, community felt like such a huge part of that for me, and you can’t have community without some banging side characters, and Vance really came through. The Colorado gang is everything I want to find, and the Sweden village was everything my heart needed. I loved all these characters, and I can’t wait to see more of them.
Just an absolutely fantastic time. It was easy. It was fun. I was glad I had Book 2 ready to go because I needed more. Shelbie has my heart, and she will not be denied!
I normally save this bit as I close out my review, but this time, I want to start with it. Community. As I was getting into this book, I just didn’t realize how much I needed it. It all hit me at just the right moment. The warmth and ease I felt at the people who surrounded Shelbie. From the people who already loved her to the ones who were just welcomed her into their lives. There was one point where I had to take a minute while reading and soak in it all. Vance did such an incredible job of making me, as the reader, feel at ease, making me feel welcomed, all through Shelbie’s eyes. To have humans be so kind and welcoming to a stranger. To bring her into their hearts so easily. I just loved every second and wanted to stay in that place.
Ok! Now to the good stuff.
Shelbie is me, and I am Shelbie. So much of her current experience, I often find myself there as well. Vance always seems to find the deep parts of me and creates a character that speaks to it. But I also think it's something so many people feel. Shelbie is a mess. She feels lost. But she’s also determined, kind, and strong. The problem is that she has gotten into a place where she is waiting for life to happen to her instead of living it to her fullest. I think it's so easy to get caught in that place. Sometimes, we just need a good kick to get us shaken out of it. And the journey she goes on! I loved being along the journey with her! Give me a pretzel for breakfast, and I’m ready to take on the world!
Domari. Oh, Domari. I do love a broody grump. A big ole Grinch. A secret softy. I love him so much. I love his love for Shelbie, too. It's just so good. He has a history, and I can’t wait to dive into it more!
As I said, community felt like such a huge part of that for me, and you can’t have community without some banging side characters, and Vance really came through. The Colorado gang is everything I want to find, and the Sweden village was everything my heart needed. I loved all these characters, and I can’t wait to see more of them.
Just an absolutely fantastic time. It was easy. It was fun. I was glad I had Book 2 ready to go because I needed more. Shelbie has my heart, and she will not be denied!
November 9, 2024
Shelbie doesn't know what she wants out of life, but she knows there's something missing. At 31, she books a trip to Sweden for two weeks by herself. It's a leap of faith for her, but she needs an adventure. When she falls a thousand years backward in time, she gets more than the adventure she dreamed of!
Aimee is a friend of mine (this does not affect my rating!), and when I learned she had an opportunity to put a book on NetGalley, I was thrilled because it meant I'd finally pick up one of her books. (If you know me, you know that most of my eyeball read time is for ARCs, and as a self-published author, Aimee doesn't currently have audiobooks.) Fates Illuminated turned into a comfort read for me the day after the election. Why so comforting? Shelbie feels real, and it feels like she's ready to take hold of her life and do something to look for change. She's a character who you want to root for, and I enjoyed seeing the world through her eyes. The story is adventurous, with a dash of magic and a romance at its center, but is really about a young woman finding herself in the world. I'm eager to pick up the next book - this doesn't end on a specific cliffhanger, but it clearly sets up book 2 (which luckily is available now!). We've got things to resolve!
This is Aimee's debut, and I'm going to love picking up more of her books now that I've read this one. It feels like a contemporary romance, has elements of fantasy (fate! dragons!), and some really cool elements of history. And, it's absolutely perfect for #Norsevember.
Thank you to Aimee Vance for an eARC for review. Fates Illuminated and book 2, Fates Promised, are available now. Book 3, Fates Defied, will be out May 2025.
Aimee is a friend of mine (this does not affect my rating!), and when I learned she had an opportunity to put a book on NetGalley, I was thrilled because it meant I'd finally pick up one of her books. (If you know me, you know that most of my eyeball read time is for ARCs, and as a self-published author, Aimee doesn't currently have audiobooks.) Fates Illuminated turned into a comfort read for me the day after the election. Why so comforting? Shelbie feels real, and it feels like she's ready to take hold of her life and do something to look for change. She's a character who you want to root for, and I enjoyed seeing the world through her eyes. The story is adventurous, with a dash of magic and a romance at its center, but is really about a young woman finding herself in the world. I'm eager to pick up the next book - this doesn't end on a specific cliffhanger, but it clearly sets up book 2 (which luckily is available now!). We've got things to resolve!
This is Aimee's debut, and I'm going to love picking up more of her books now that I've read this one. It feels like a contemporary romance, has elements of fantasy (fate! dragons!), and some really cool elements of history. And, it's absolutely perfect for #Norsevember.
Thank you to Aimee Vance for an eARC for review. Fates Illuminated and book 2, Fates Promised, are available now. Book 3, Fates Defied, will be out May 2025.
November 28, 2024
Fates Illuminated is a delightful, slow-burn fantasy romance that feels like a contemporary romance but with dragons. I wish I could explain it, but my ramblings tell me I can't. So, maybe a list of why I enjoyed this is the right way to go.
1. The feel of the story. Again, I don't know if I can explain what I mean by this, but it is perfect for romance readers who don't typically like fantasy books. It is also great for readers who want to dive into fantasy slowly. Yet, at the same time, I think fantasy romance readers will love this as well. It was both dark and light.
2. Vikings. I mean, what else is there to say?
3. Dragons. Again, what else do I need to say?
4. Time Travel. Playing with time (travel, loops, etc.) is one of my favorite tropes.
5. Found Family & Side Characters: The side characters and the found family they created bring this story to life. It is more than just a romance. There are genuine friendships and bonds. I thought it was lovely.
6. Older Characters: I love characters in their 30s and older.
7. The Dark Bits: I especially liked the darker bits with The Norns. I am dying to see more of them as the series progresses.
8. Domari and Shelbie. I love a grumpy man who is secretly down-bad. Shelbie reminded me a lot of my younger self. Flying to another country to find myself is something I have done a few times. Highly recommend by the way. Although, I didn't fall in love with a Viking. So, maybe I did it wrong. All I know is I am excited to see what happens in book two, and the third and final book comes out in Spring 2025.
Thank you to NetGalley and Aimee Vance for a review copy.
1. The feel of the story. Again, I don't know if I can explain what I mean by this, but it is perfect for romance readers who don't typically like fantasy books. It is also great for readers who want to dive into fantasy slowly. Yet, at the same time, I think fantasy romance readers will love this as well. It was both dark and light.
2. Vikings. I mean, what else is there to say?
3. Dragons. Again, what else do I need to say?
4. Time Travel. Playing with time (travel, loops, etc.) is one of my favorite tropes.
5. Found Family & Side Characters: The side characters and the found family they created bring this story to life. It is more than just a romance. There are genuine friendships and bonds. I thought it was lovely.
6. Older Characters: I love characters in their 30s and older.
7. The Dark Bits: I especially liked the darker bits with The Norns. I am dying to see more of them as the series progresses.
8. Domari and Shelbie. I love a grumpy man who is secretly down-bad. Shelbie reminded me a lot of my younger self. Flying to another country to find myself is something I have done a few times. Highly recommend by the way. Although, I didn't fall in love with a Viking. So, maybe I did it wrong. All I know is I am excited to see what happens in book two, and the third and final book comes out in Spring 2025.
Thank you to NetGalley and Aimee Vance for a review copy.
June 30, 2025
Outlander but with ✨dragons✨
Tbh I had no idea what was going on half the time in this story because I thought it had dragons in it and then 3/4 of the way through with no dragons I thought maybe I had read that wrong and then the dragon showed up at the end and there was a cliffhanger and then I realized this was a series instead of the standalone I assumed it was. That's on me lol. On to the next asap because I want to see these two get their HEA.
Three stars bc there was no build up to their relationship, he's just gruff, rude, and annoyed with her, and then literally the next moment they're both really into each other. Some other things are going on with the side characters but we're told all of it instead of shown. The side characters are really adorable though. I like them all and I especially love how devoted they all are.
Tbh I had no idea what was going on half the time in this story because I thought it had dragons in it and then 3/4 of the way through with no dragons I thought maybe I had read that wrong and then the dragon showed up at the end and there was a cliffhanger and then I realized this was a series instead of the standalone I assumed it was. That's on me lol. On to the next asap because I want to see these two get their HEA.
Three stars bc there was no build up to their relationship, he's just gruff, rude, and annoyed with her, and then literally the next moment they're both really into each other. Some other things are going on with the side characters but we're told all of it instead of shown. The side characters are really adorable though. I like them all and I especially love how devoted they all are.
June 6, 2022
I really enjoyed this book.
It's about a 31 ( birthday girl) who is trying to find herself. She books an impulse trip and find more than she bargained for.
What I really appreciated about this book were the strong characters, both men and women alike. Yes, there are alpha males in this book, but they gave a nurturing side too. And the women *chef's kiss*! They don't apologize for nothing. They are just as fierce, one woman's husband says, "She's terrifying. And I love it!"
For a woman trying to find herself, these are women of inspiration. Unafraid to be themselves, healer, mother, warrior.
I would highly recommend for anyone who is interested in Viking culture, a coming of age story, or entertaining read. While there is spice, the story does not depend on it, and it's just sprinkles on the icing on the cake.
Chapters are short to medium length, but reading goes quick! Happy reading! Can't wait for book 2!
It's about a 31 ( birthday girl) who is trying to find herself. She books an impulse trip and find more than she bargained for.
What I really appreciated about this book were the strong characters, both men and women alike. Yes, there are alpha males in this book, but they gave a nurturing side too. And the women *chef's kiss*! They don't apologize for nothing. They are just as fierce, one woman's husband says, "She's terrifying. And I love it!"
For a woman trying to find herself, these are women of inspiration. Unafraid to be themselves, healer, mother, warrior.
I would highly recommend for anyone who is interested in Viking culture, a coming of age story, or entertaining read. While there is spice, the story does not depend on it, and it's just sprinkles on the icing on the cake.
Chapters are short to medium length, but reading goes quick! Happy reading! Can't wait for book 2!
May 13, 2025
Okay I LOVED this!! Aimee Vance writes such incredible MCs and this book reinforced that for me.
The FMC was likable and relatable. I really enjoyed her journey and character growth from the beginning to end of the book!! Similarly, the MMC was delectable and lovable.
I haven’t read any paranormal or fantasy romances set in Viking times and I really loved the unique aspect of this book! It was an easy read at under 400 pages and it flew by!
Read this if you like:
💙time traveling story
💙Viking times
💙found family
💙forced proximity
💙only one bed - one of my FAVE TROPES
💙a world with dragons
💙lovable dog named Thor
💙relatable FMC
This book is exactly why I just applied for Aimee Vance’s street team. Go read it! It is available on Kindle Unlimited!
The FMC was likable and relatable. I really enjoyed her journey and character growth from the beginning to end of the book!! Similarly, the MMC was delectable and lovable.
I haven’t read any paranormal or fantasy romances set in Viking times and I really loved the unique aspect of this book! It was an easy read at under 400 pages and it flew by!
Read this if you like:
💙time traveling story
💙Viking times
💙found family
💙forced proximity
💙only one bed - one of my FAVE TROPES
💙a world with dragons
💙lovable dog named Thor
💙relatable FMC
This book is exactly why I just applied for Aimee Vance’s street team. Go read it! It is available on Kindle Unlimited!
May 17, 2022
I dove into this book because I was slumping, and a bookstagram friend had just read it and was raving about it. I was NOT disappointed.
I was immediately drawn in because Shelbie is 31 and going through a "what am I doing with my life??" phase which.... same girl. Shelbie is so funny and real. Her reactions to things cracked me up the entire story. Sometimes when a main character is a reader and they bring that up within the book it is... lame and tacky. Not with this one. They were written in a way that fit into the story and had me laughing.
Which.. this story/plot. Guys. I'm obsessed with the entire thing. Who among us does not wish to book a spontaneous horseback riding trip through Sweden but end up time traveling and falling in love with a handsome Viking instead? This book had TROPES upon tropes and they were so well written. I have this weird fascination with the one horse trope and Aimee nailed it. I devoured this book and was so sad when it was over. I need MORE. NOW. Please read this book, you won't regret it.
I was immediately drawn in because Shelbie is 31 and going through a "what am I doing with my life??" phase which.... same girl. Shelbie is so funny and real. Her reactions to things cracked me up the entire story. Sometimes when a main character is a reader and they bring that up within the book it is... lame and tacky. Not with this one. They were written in a way that fit into the story and had me laughing.
Which.. this story/plot. Guys. I'm obsessed with the entire thing. Who among us does not wish to book a spontaneous horseback riding trip through Sweden but end up time traveling and falling in love with a handsome Viking instead? This book had TROPES upon tropes and they were so well written. I have this weird fascination with the one horse trope and Aimee nailed it. I devoured this book and was so sad when it was over. I need MORE. NOW. Please read this book, you won't regret it.
June 10, 2022
Fates Illuminated was such a captivating book. The main character, Shelbie, is so relatable. She turns 31 and is feeling a little lost in life. She sees her best friend and brother both happily married with families of their own and she wonders if she wants that too. On her birthday, she has a bit too much wine and spontaneously books a trip to Sweden. When she gets there, the story really begins. You should read this if you love- time travel, found family, grumpy/sunshine, one bed trope, and protective male main characters. Plus, there’s Vikings and dragons! What more could you ask for really? I can’t wait for the sequel! The cliffhanger is killing me!
November 23, 2022
4.5 stars. This book was so fun! I couldn’t put it down!
I love the MC Shelbie. She’s relatable and likable. I love all the characters she meets on her adventures… especially Domari 🔥🔥🫠🫠🫠
I have so many questions that I can’t wait to have answered!
And that ending!
I need the next book like right now.
I love the MC Shelbie. She’s relatable and likable. I love all the characters she meets on her adventures… especially Domari 🔥🔥🫠🫠🫠
I have so many questions that I can’t wait to have answered!
And that ending!
I need the next book like right now.
January 26, 2025
I started this book but did not finish it on NetGalley before it was archived again. I did promptly go buy it so I could finish the story. Thank you for getting me hooked on the series, I can’t wait to see what else you have up your sleeves Aimee Vance! I am glad I knew this book would be part of at least a trilogy before I got started, so hopefully I can pace myself until June. Thank you to Revel Books for the chance to read this book to get me hyped for the rest of the series!
This is a time travel romance where Shelbie has to learn where she fits in and what she wants out of life. I loved the characters and the scenic descriptions of Swedish countryside. Her journey to her own sense of enlightenment was a thrilling ride and I can’t wait to read book 2!
This is a time travel romance where Shelbie has to learn where she fits in and what she wants out of life. I loved the characters and the scenic descriptions of Swedish countryside. Her journey to her own sense of enlightenment was a thrilling ride and I can’t wait to read book 2!
August 26, 2022
This book was such a strange one. The first quarter of the book, nothing really happens. I suppose you can say it’s character building but it kind of dragged for me and I was just really waiting for it to get going. The second quarter still takes a little while to get moving and I was getting a little bored… until the half way point of the book. Then, it’s like everything happens at once. So much stuff! The characters that are introduced, the world building, the love interest, it all just starts to roll at you and it’s a race to the finish.
I wasn’t a huge fan of the writing style, but I will 100% be getting the second book when it comes out.
So, yes, I really do recommend this. But be prepared to wait it out. You’ll be really rewarded if you do.
I wasn’t a huge fan of the writing style, but I will 100% be getting the second book when it comes out.
So, yes, I really do recommend this. But be prepared to wait it out. You’ll be really rewarded if you do.
November 27, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ - If you like Vikings, time travel, Sweden, dragons, & family you will enjoy this book!
31 year old Shelbie just celebrated her birthday & realizes how lonely she is. She drunkly purchases a two week long horse back riding/ hiking trip in Sweden. She starts preparing for her trip and building up her courage to go on her first solo trip.
I loved how much depth each character has. I especially enjoyed the Viking wives.
I just wish the emotional connection for Shelbie was drawn out more. It seemed a little too fast paced.
This was my first romantasy book & I really enjoyed it! I am interested to see where book #2 goes.
Thank you NetGalley, Aimee Vance, & Victory Editing for this eARC.
31 year old Shelbie just celebrated her birthday & realizes how lonely she is. She drunkly purchases a two week long horse back riding/ hiking trip in Sweden. She starts preparing for her trip and building up her courage to go on her first solo trip.
I loved how much depth each character has. I especially enjoyed the Viking wives.
I just wish the emotional connection for Shelbie was drawn out more. It seemed a little too fast paced.
This was my first romantasy book & I really enjoyed it! I am interested to see where book #2 goes.
Thank you NetGalley, Aimee Vance, & Victory Editing for this eARC.
October 31, 2024
Phenomenal! Someone get me a Viking, stat. This gave me Outlander vibes and it being one of my favorite books, it’s a huge compliment. I loved where this story was going and I’m so excited to see what else will happen. Amazing start to the series!
June 1, 2022
Fun, fast read that leaves you excited for the story to continue in book two. Relatable main character who recognizes she isn’t perfect but strives to grow and too many amazing supporting characters to list.
April 30, 2022
Fantastic book. Highly recommend if you like Vikings, time travel, and a good romance story.
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