Ander Levisay

Aela continues her adventures as the sadly reduced band of warriors returns slowly home. The pace is a bit slower here at first, but soon picks up with sieges and pitched battles. A lot of authors have trouble writing fighting scenes, but Mr. Levisay is excellent, giving the reader an exciting and often gory view from inside a fight. The moves made sense to me so I can almost see Aela and her friends attacking their enemies. It's dirty and rough, riddled with adrenaline-fueled attacks and prayers to the gods, just the way you want a fight to be.
There is still politics among the Thyrm; also some mystical doings as Aela tries to learn about her visions and what the rune on her hand means. There's a wonderful Nordic feel to it all though this is fantasy and we're not dealing with Odin, Thor, and the rest.
I will wait impatiently for book 3 and I want to thank IndieBrag who gifted me this book for an honest review. Disclaimer: I did buy and read the first book to get up to speed; both are well worth the price.… (meer)

Rollicking adventure. Set in a fantasy Viking world, the author has used a lot of actual Viking rites and customs to make the world feel authentic. Aelfhild is the servant to Ceolwen, heir to a dying king. When her illegitimate brother tries to kill them and usurps the throne, they barely escape and head out to find aid to regain the crown.
Aelfhild is the practical one, more adventurous and willing to try new things. It's fun to watch her evolve as they travel and she realizes that her lot doesn't always have to be as a servant. There are a lot of ups and downs in their quest, and Aelfhild is the stalwart one. I really liked her character.
The author has done a great job in keeping the story moving. I can't wait to find out what happens next.… (meer)