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The Helheim Prophecy #2
The Valkyrie’s Shadow
A thrilling Sapphic fantasy based on unique Norse mythology that ups the stakes of adventure, romance, and mystery.
400 pages, Hardcover
Published July 25, 2023
About the author
Tiana Warner
22 books654 followersTiana Warner is a #1 Amazon Bestselling Author whose books have been featured on BuzzFeed, Gizmodo, Paste Magazine, Tor, Book Riot, Foreword Reviews, and more. She is the winner of the Best Indie Book Award, the Dante Rossetti Awards, and Sequential Magazine’s Favourite Writer Award. Her works have been optioned for film and TV.
Tiana is a bisexual author who mainly writes sapphic fiction. Her books include the critically acclaimed, Amazon bestselling series, Mermaids of Eriana Kwai and its graphic novel adaptation, as well as The Valkyrie’s Daughter (Entangled Teen), and several lesbian romance novels with Ylva Publishing.
Born and raised in British Columbia, Canada, Tiana is a former programmer with a Computer Science degree, a lifelong horseback rider, and an outdoor enthusiast who loves to explore BC with her hyperactive rescue mutt, Joey.
Find her online at tianawarner.com.
Tiana is a bisexual author who mainly writes sapphic fiction. Her books include the critically acclaimed, Amazon bestselling series, Mermaids of Eriana Kwai and its graphic novel adaptation, as well as The Valkyrie’s Daughter (Entangled Teen), and several lesbian romance novels with Ylva Publishing.
Born and raised in British Columbia, Canada, Tiana is a former programmer with a Computer Science degree, a lifelong horseback rider, and an outdoor enthusiast who loves to explore BC with her hyperactive rescue mutt, Joey.
Find her online at tianawarner.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
August 7, 2024
Valkyrie’s Shadow begins where the first book ended. Sigrid becomes an honorary Valkyrie and is on a mission to rescue Ratatosk the ferryman from the Night Elves. Little does Sigrid know that she is on the precipice of her personal world and homeland changing drastically forever.
Warner offers her readers a heart stopping adventure intertwined with Norse mythology. Sigrid is a sympathetic main character who you heartily cheer on during her adventures. Her attraction to Mariam has all the sixteen year old pining and angst you can imagine. Warner writes with her finger on the pulse of young adults and I so wish I had her books in my youth.
I highly recommend this series to be read in order for continuity.
I received an advance review copy from Entangled Publishing and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Warner offers her readers a heart stopping adventure intertwined with Norse mythology. Sigrid is a sympathetic main character who you heartily cheer on during her adventures. Her attraction to Mariam has all the sixteen year old pining and angst you can imagine. Warner writes with her finger on the pulse of young adults and I so wish I had her books in my youth.
I highly recommend this series to be read in order for continuity.
I received an advance review copy from Entangled Publishing and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 1, 2024
4.25 stars. I’m still enjoying this Norse mythology inspired YA series. In this second installment (I recommend reading them in order) you’re already familiar with the world that Warner created and the main characters. Because of this there was more room for adventures and action in this book as compared with the first book.
The main character of this book is Sigrid, who is now an honorary Valkyrie, but she still struggles with her place in the hierarchy and acceptance by the other young Valkyries. She sets out to rescue Ratatosk from the night elves and soon finds herself in another world and figures out a much bigger plot.
I still like Sigrid, she’s young and somewhat naive but she shows good character development throughout the book. I also liked Mariam and the sweet romance between her and Sigrid, but Fisk was again for me the biggest surprise. His character is refreshing and so is the friendship between the three. Personally I also enjoyed the role of the war horse Sleipnir and the complicated dynamics between him and Sigrid.
There are a few pacing issues in this book, but with so much things going on the book kept me easily entertained and I even liked it a bit better than the first book. The door is open to a third book and I’ll be there for it. Overal, this is a well written and fun YA book with a lot of action scenes and mythology.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The main character of this book is Sigrid, who is now an honorary Valkyrie, but she still struggles with her place in the hierarchy and acceptance by the other young Valkyries. She sets out to rescue Ratatosk from the night elves and soon finds herself in another world and figures out a much bigger plot.
I still like Sigrid, she’s young and somewhat naive but she shows good character development throughout the book. I also liked Mariam and the sweet romance between her and Sigrid, but Fisk was again for me the biggest surprise. His character is refreshing and so is the friendship between the three. Personally I also enjoyed the role of the war horse Sleipnir and the complicated dynamics between him and Sigrid.
There are a few pacing issues in this book, but with so much things going on the book kept me easily entertained and I even liked it a bit better than the first book. The door is open to a third book and I’ll be there for it. Overal, this is a well written and fun YA book with a lot of action scenes and mythology.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 10, 2023
Valkyrie’s Shadow begins where the first book ended. Sigrid becomes an honorary Valkyrie and is on a mission to rescue Ratatosk the ferryman from the Night Elves. Little does Sigrid know that she is on the precipice of her personal world and homeland changing drastically forever.
Warner offers her readers a heart stopping adventure intertwined with Norse mythology. Sigrid is a sympathetic main character who you heartily cheer on during her adventures. Her attraction to Mariam has all the sixteen year old pining and angst you can imagine. Warner writes with her finger on the pulse of young adults and I so wish I had her books in my youth.
I highly recommend this series to be read in order for continuity.
I received an advance review copy from Entangled Publishing and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Warner offers her readers a heart stopping adventure intertwined with Norse mythology. Sigrid is a sympathetic main character who you heartily cheer on during her adventures. Her attraction to Mariam has all the sixteen year old pining and angst you can imagine. Warner writes with her finger on the pulse of young adults and I so wish I had her books in my youth.
I highly recommend this series to be read in order for continuity.
I received an advance review copy from Entangled Publishing and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 25, 2023
This review can also be found at https://carolesrandomlife.com/
This was really good! This book picks up shortly after the events of the first book so you will definitely want to read the series in order. Sigrid is such a great character and she has a lot of overwhelming situations to deal with in this book and I couldn’t wait to see what she would do next. The story was really exciting with a ton of action to keep the pages turning. I am so glad that I found this entertaining YA series.
Things have changed dramatically for Sigrid since the previous book in the series. She is back home and has brought her friends Mariam and Fisk after a quick quest to rescue Ratatosk. Things change quickly when her aunt is crowned queen and asks Sigrid to move into the palace. Before long, they are under attack and Sigrid becomes a leader, along with the war horse Sleipnir. Unfortunately, they will have a lot of challenges to face before the story draws to a close.
Sigrid and the other characters go through so many things in this installment. I feel like Sigrid showed a lot of growth over the course of this story. I was thrilled by the progress in Sigrid and Mariam’s relationship and was pleased to find a few other romances sprinkled around the supporting cast of characters.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read. I thought that this book brought the story to a satisfying conclusion but left the door open for future installments. I wouldn’t hesitate to pick up more of this entertaining series.
I received a digital review copy of this book from Entangled: Teen.
This was really good! This book picks up shortly after the events of the first book so you will definitely want to read the series in order. Sigrid is such a great character and she has a lot of overwhelming situations to deal with in this book and I couldn’t wait to see what she would do next. The story was really exciting with a ton of action to keep the pages turning. I am so glad that I found this entertaining YA series.
Things have changed dramatically for Sigrid since the previous book in the series. She is back home and has brought her friends Mariam and Fisk after a quick quest to rescue Ratatosk. Things change quickly when her aunt is crowned queen and asks Sigrid to move into the palace. Before long, they are under attack and Sigrid becomes a leader, along with the war horse Sleipnir. Unfortunately, they will have a lot of challenges to face before the story draws to a close.
Sigrid and the other characters go through so many things in this installment. I feel like Sigrid showed a lot of growth over the course of this story. I was thrilled by the progress in Sigrid and Mariam’s relationship and was pleased to find a few other romances sprinkled around the supporting cast of characters.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read. I thought that this book brought the story to a satisfying conclusion but left the door open for future installments. I wouldn’t hesitate to pick up more of this entertaining series.
I received a digital review copy of this book from Entangled: Teen.
August 4, 2023
I think this book was even better than the first book in the series!
In book 1 we needed to be introduced to the world, characters and character relationships. We still needed to get to know Sigrid and what drives her. In book 2 #TheValkyriesShadow we already know everything about Sigrid, her feelings, the world. We have already experienced things together with Sigrid and so we got thrust immediately into action, her new life. We know her. And so I feel like this one was much more fast paced than book 1 and I *really* enjoyed that.
There was more action, more character development, more things happening between Sigrid and Mariam and we got more mysterious glimpses into Sigrid and her... let's call it familial situations.
There were higher stakes, more situation in which I was really emotionally invested and just... this book is just written well! You start reading, the chapter are short, quick and fast paced and you just don't want to stop, because every chapter ends on a mini cliffhanger.
And talking about cliffhangers; this book does end on one. Not a brutal one where you're left hanging mid action, but still one that will make you want to continue with the next book right away. Well, jokes on me in this one, because book 3 isn't even out yet. So, I guess I'll just have to sit and wait...😅
In book 1 we needed to be introduced to the world, characters and character relationships. We still needed to get to know Sigrid and what drives her. In book 2 #TheValkyriesShadow we already know everything about Sigrid, her feelings, the world. We have already experienced things together with Sigrid and so we got thrust immediately into action, her new life. We know her. And so I feel like this one was much more fast paced than book 1 and I *really* enjoyed that.
There was more action, more character development, more things happening between Sigrid and Mariam and we got more mysterious glimpses into Sigrid and her... let's call it familial situations.
There were higher stakes, more situation in which I was really emotionally invested and just... this book is just written well! You start reading, the chapter are short, quick and fast paced and you just don't want to stop, because every chapter ends on a mini cliffhanger.
And talking about cliffhangers; this book does end on one. Not a brutal one where you're left hanging mid action, but still one that will make you want to continue with the next book right away. Well, jokes on me in this one, because book 3 isn't even out yet. So, I guess I'll just have to sit and wait...😅
January 18, 2024
took horse girls to another level
July 24, 2023
The Sigrid and the Valkyrie’s series by Tiana Warner has become an epic saga for me. I loved the first book, The Valkyrie’s Daughter, but got lost in The Valkyrie’s Shadow. The characters came to life on the pages in this coming of age story and, even though it is a long book, 435 Kindle pages, I read and read and read…
Because the series needs to be read in order, I will do my best to include NO spoilers.
We have some familiar characters and creatures. Royal politics are complicated and the lines of loyalty are often blurred. I am glad that Sigrid stayed leery, and even though she is a young woman, she does know the difference between right and wrong. Each individual is as important as any other.
Sigrid wants the best for everyone and slowly builds her self confidence as she is forced to make decisions that will affect the lives of many. She is an lgbtq character and I love that Tiana Warner adds that extra something to make her character stand out. The romance with Mariam was sweet and innocent.
Tora, what a fabulous character. She made me smile. Fisk is another outstanding and unique character that stuck with me.
I loved all the supernatural characters and creatures.
The Valkrie’s Shadow by Tiana Warner has so much depth and detail to the world she has vividly created. I traveled miles with the characters, and not all will survive. We walked, we flew, we sailed…We have valkyries, elves, humans, winged mares (so how do they reproduce), and an eight legged horse that once belonged to a god…We have loyalty and betrayal, friends and lovers…
There is 435 pages of deliciousness and I hated to read the final word. I was left with a feeling of happiness and hope. Tiana, you blew my mind with this awesome story! I don’t feel my review conveyed how much I loved this book, but, maybe I shared enough to make you want to read it for yourself. I do want to stress that it is best to read The Valkyrie’s Daughter first.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of The Valkyrie’s Shadow by Tiana Warner.
Because the series needs to be read in order, I will do my best to include NO spoilers.
We have some familiar characters and creatures. Royal politics are complicated and the lines of loyalty are often blurred. I am glad that Sigrid stayed leery, and even though she is a young woman, she does know the difference between right and wrong. Each individual is as important as any other.
Sigrid wants the best for everyone and slowly builds her self confidence as she is forced to make decisions that will affect the lives of many. She is an lgbtq character and I love that Tiana Warner adds that extra something to make her character stand out. The romance with Mariam was sweet and innocent.
Tora, what a fabulous character. She made me smile. Fisk is another outstanding and unique character that stuck with me.
I loved all the supernatural characters and creatures.
The Valkrie’s Shadow by Tiana Warner has so much depth and detail to the world she has vividly created. I traveled miles with the characters, and not all will survive. We walked, we flew, we sailed…We have valkyries, elves, humans, winged mares (so how do they reproduce), and an eight legged horse that once belonged to a god…We have loyalty and betrayal, friends and lovers…
There is 435 pages of deliciousness and I hated to read the final word. I was left with a feeling of happiness and hope. Tiana, you blew my mind with this awesome story! I don’t feel my review conveyed how much I loved this book, but, maybe I shared enough to make you want to read it for yourself. I do want to stress that it is best to read The Valkyrie’s Daughter first.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of The Valkyrie’s Shadow by Tiana Warner.
June 10, 2023
Rating: 3.5
I don't have any strong feelings towards this book, but I did like it overall. Other than some pacing issues, the story kept me interested throughout most of it. I liked the characters and the romance.
I don't have any strong feelings towards this book, but I did like it overall. Other than some pacing issues, the story kept me interested throughout most of it. I liked the characters and the romance.
July 10, 2023
Let me start off by saying that I listened to the first book as an audiobook, but then had this one as an eARC. So, I was really confused and bored for the first 70% of it. I think I would have rather listened to this one then read it. I wanted to DNF it several times, but pushed through because the chapters were so short and it was an ARC. However, I am glad that I finished it. I really thought the last 30% picked up and the book finally started clicking in my head and becoming an actual good book to read. This is pretty much why I'm giving this book 3 stars. I might have even given it more if I listened to the audiobook as I did the first one. If you enjoyed book one, I think you will enjoy this one too and do recommend reading!
March 30, 2023
A wild ride with the Valkyries: Brilliant
Wow, I am still breathless after this wild ride with Sigrid, her friends, her fellow-Valkyries and all those horses. If there is military scifi, this surely is military fantasy and this second book in the Valkyrie series has plenty of preparation for war and war going on. Every single scene is realistic well-written with lots of twists and turns … remember: breathless.
Sigrid is elevated from stable hand to princess and now we and Sigrid learn about all those machinations and intrigues going on in a royal palace. Not everything turns out as expected. Fortunately her friends from her life before have her back. There are quite a few secondary characters which add substance and other themes than war to this book: Fisk, the dark elf, Tora and Vala, the seers, Harold, the magician and Mariam … long distance is the least of Mariam‘s and Sigrid‘s problems, just sayin.
The world-building is encompassing and plain wonderful. A joy to read.
Special kudos for the horses and horsewomanship: I loved the horses which are secondary characters in themselves. So well done: The reliable Hestur and Sleipnir, the untamed god-derived horse. And the last twist: hilarious. For the next installment I would wish even more insights into the relationship of winged Valkyrie horses with their riders.
If you must, you can read this book as a stand-alone, but you get the most enjoyment if you start with the first book, The Valkyrie‘s Daughter. Now I am waiting rather impatiently for the next part.
Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. The review is left voluntarily.
Wow, I am still breathless after this wild ride with Sigrid, her friends, her fellow-Valkyries and all those horses. If there is military scifi, this surely is military fantasy and this second book in the Valkyrie series has plenty of preparation for war and war going on. Every single scene is realistic well-written with lots of twists and turns … remember: breathless.
Sigrid is elevated from stable hand to princess and now we and Sigrid learn about all those machinations and intrigues going on in a royal palace. Not everything turns out as expected. Fortunately her friends from her life before have her back. There are quite a few secondary characters which add substance and other themes than war to this book: Fisk, the dark elf, Tora and Vala, the seers, Harold, the magician and Mariam … long distance is the least of Mariam‘s and Sigrid‘s problems, just sayin.
The world-building is encompassing and plain wonderful. A joy to read.
Special kudos for the horses and horsewomanship: I loved the horses which are secondary characters in themselves. So well done: The reliable Hestur and Sleipnir, the untamed god-derived horse. And the last twist: hilarious. For the next installment I would wish even more insights into the relationship of winged Valkyrie horses with their riders.
If you must, you can read this book as a stand-alone, but you get the most enjoyment if you start with the first book, The Valkyrie‘s Daughter. Now I am waiting rather impatiently for the next part.
Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. The review is left voluntarily.
July 30, 2023
I liked this one even better than the first and I hope there's a third book bc I really liked the character development and the plot development
CW: betrayal, death, war, invasion
CW: betrayal, death, war, invasion
June 23, 2023
I read book 1 as part of a book tour, and really enjoyed it. So of course I wanted to read book 2 as well. Since I read book 1 a year or so ago, I was afraid it would be hard to get into book 2. But I was immediately reminded of why I enjoyed it so much, and was pulled back into the story almost right away.
After reading book 1, I felt like there was an amazing balance between plot and character depth, and I feel the same about book 2. A lot goes on plotwise, which is really entertaining to read and kept me engaged all the way through, but Sigrid also has a lot going on internally and goes through a lot of development.
After this, I very much want to read book 3 as well. I'm enjoying this series so much!
After reading book 1, I felt like there was an amazing balance between plot and character depth, and I feel the same about book 2. A lot goes on plotwise, which is really entertaining to read and kept me engaged all the way through, but Sigrid also has a lot going on internally and goes through a lot of development.
After this, I very much want to read book 3 as well. I'm enjoying this series so much!
April 13, 2024
I was hesitant going into the sequel but I was so happily surprised that I enjoyed this. Maybe even more then the first book.
It did give me a feeling that maybe there will be a third book. Things didn’t seem wrapped up at least not all of it.
I loved the development of the romance, it wasn’t all up in your face, it was subtle. It also felt like it might not have been necessary but it was enjoyable.
It did give me a feeling that maybe there will be a third book. Things didn’t seem wrapped up at least not all of it.
I loved the development of the romance, it wasn’t all up in your face, it was subtle. It also felt like it might not have been necessary but it was enjoyable.
June 29, 2023
3.5. I enjoyed this sequel and thought both the action scenes and descriptions of the environment and characters were rather immersive.
Some minor parts felt a tad repetitive but altogether didn't limit my enjoyment too much.
I'm excited for the next
Some minor parts felt a tad repetitive but altogether didn't limit my enjoyment too much.
I'm excited for the next
July 27, 2023
Rating: 4.5/5
I received an eARC for my honest opinion.
Are people just good or evil? What would you do if you had chaos and evil in your bloodline, yet you were raised differently?
This book picks up from where book one left off, and you will come to see different sides to Sigrid in this book. The side we came to love and another side of her that was a little too bloodthirsty, but that is just who she is, and you come to love her and respect her throughout the book… Well mostly at the end lol.
I thought the plot of this book was way better than the first one. It had more drama, heartbreak, death, betrayal, and of course romance. I loved that there were little twists and turns throughout the book, and you got to see a darker side of Sigrid and this plot needed to see a darker side to her. I loved that we had different views in this book “Evil vs Good” but that did not get in the way of the main plot. I thought at first Sigrid’s aunt the queen was going to be good for her but the hints throughout the book made me think differently. I enjoyed that action in this book, there was a lot more fighting and a lot of internal battles going on. I thought the world building and the characters were even more well developed in this book and I know that sometimes in the second book it can lay a little flat. I loved that we still got a little more lesson about the mythology of Norse’s, but this author turned it into something amazing. I thought the romance in this book was done well, it was a slow burn but with everything else happening in the world, having it be a slow burn was perfect.
I thought the character development in this book was way better than the first one. In this book we get to see Sigrid develop a lot more than her side characters, and in the first book the side characters developed more but you got to see Sigrid finally find her place in the world. I enjoyed getting to see Sigrid’s darker side and finally coming to understand where she gets that from, but then getting to see what she does with that information was the best. Did she figure it all out? No, but that is what makes this a really great book series, it was not all laid out right away but leaves you wanting to know more. With the side characters I think Fisk was my favorite, I really liked getting to see him shine but at the same time fall in love too. It was so sweet. This book with the characters did not have a dull moment. This book is packed with information (no worries it’s not an info dump kind), action, drama, and romance. I cannot wait to see what book three will bring us.
I want to thank NetGalley and Entangled Teen for the opportunity to review this book.
I received an eARC for my honest opinion.
Are people just good or evil? What would you do if you had chaos and evil in your bloodline, yet you were raised differently?
This book picks up from where book one left off, and you will come to see different sides to Sigrid in this book. The side we came to love and another side of her that was a little too bloodthirsty, but that is just who she is, and you come to love her and respect her throughout the book… Well mostly at the end lol.
I thought the plot of this book was way better than the first one. It had more drama, heartbreak, death, betrayal, and of course romance. I loved that there were little twists and turns throughout the book, and you got to see a darker side of Sigrid and this plot needed to see a darker side to her. I loved that we had different views in this book “Evil vs Good” but that did not get in the way of the main plot. I thought at first Sigrid’s aunt the queen was going to be good for her but the hints throughout the book made me think differently. I enjoyed that action in this book, there was a lot more fighting and a lot of internal battles going on. I thought the world building and the characters were even more well developed in this book and I know that sometimes in the second book it can lay a little flat. I loved that we still got a little more lesson about the mythology of Norse’s, but this author turned it into something amazing. I thought the romance in this book was done well, it was a slow burn but with everything else happening in the world, having it be a slow burn was perfect.
I thought the character development in this book was way better than the first one. In this book we get to see Sigrid develop a lot more than her side characters, and in the first book the side characters developed more but you got to see Sigrid finally find her place in the world. I enjoyed getting to see Sigrid’s darker side and finally coming to understand where she gets that from, but then getting to see what she does with that information was the best. Did she figure it all out? No, but that is what makes this a really great book series, it was not all laid out right away but leaves you wanting to know more. With the side characters I think Fisk was my favorite, I really liked getting to see him shine but at the same time fall in love too. It was so sweet. This book with the characters did not have a dull moment. This book is packed with information (no worries it’s not an info dump kind), action, drama, and romance. I cannot wait to see what book three will bring us.
I want to thank NetGalley and Entangled Teen for the opportunity to review this book.
July 24, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
4.5/5 STARS
This is book 2 in a YA fantasy series. You need to read the first book before this one.
It is a Norse mythology based epic adventure. There are winged horses, elves, magic, other realms, royalty, and more. The sapphic romance picks up a little more in this book than the first. I really enjoyed this series. It is fast paced and hard to put down. I hope there is another book!
Thank you Entangled Teen for the ARC! ❤️❤️
4.5/5 STARS
This is book 2 in a YA fantasy series. You need to read the first book before this one.
It is a Norse mythology based epic adventure. There are winged horses, elves, magic, other realms, royalty, and more. The sapphic romance picks up a little more in this book than the first. I really enjoyed this series. It is fast paced and hard to put down. I hope there is another book!
Thank you Entangled Teen for the ARC! ❤️❤️
December 23, 2023
To me this book just had no stakes. The lack of world building and character development made me just not care about anything that was happening. Also I believe this is only going to be a duology but the ending of this book seemed to be setting up a sequel? In any case, not a completely disappointing read but not one I can really recommend.
October 29, 2023
Amazing, can not wait for more
July 28, 2023
Thank you to Entangled Publishing, LLC, Entangled: Teen for allowing me an early access copy to read!
Sigrid has what she wanted: a girlfriend, a beautiful horse, and an acceptance in the Valkyrie troops. Unfortunately, Sigrid also has much she doesn't want: a royal mother who was exiled for treason and attempted to use her for conquest, a magical steed who corrupts her, an imprisoned girlfriend, and a semi-royal position. None of this comes with acceptance from other Valkyries, but that's fine because Sigrid doesn't need them, right?
She has her horse. She suddenly has an aunt who wants her closer than ever-- and riding Slepnir. She has Mariam's nonacceptance from others to juggle, and the refusal of all to accept Fisk. That's also fine, she can handle that. Probably. Mostly.
And then war breaks out. And Sigrid is needed, on the horse who changes her, and she must make decisions about who's living and dying, thrust into a high position due to nepotism-- which everyone knows and no one respects, least of all the Valkyries Sigrid grew up with. Everyone wants her doing the most that she can, but Sigrid cannot without losing herself.
So she must. It's a very well-written corruption arc, in showing how different she is, and how her actions terrify her. Sigrid breaks rules of warfare, breaks expectations of protection, and prioritizes the wrong things, over and over again. And yet, we are constantly reminded this is not her of her own choices; this is her with chaos in her veins. (though to me, I feel it more likely a decided and cruel order, morelike? And we'll find out the subversion in the next book). Sigrid, in her own mind, cannot even recognize herself changing once she's corrupted, and the book grows deeper.
I truly liked the twists and discussions The Valkyrie's Shadow had, even as I waited for them to happen. I look forward to the next, and I hope this book continues to find more readers!
Sigrid has what she wanted: a girlfriend, a beautiful horse, and an acceptance in the Valkyrie troops. Unfortunately, Sigrid also has much she doesn't want: a royal mother who was exiled for treason and attempted to use her for conquest, a magical steed who corrupts her, an imprisoned girlfriend, and a semi-royal position. None of this comes with acceptance from other Valkyries, but that's fine because Sigrid doesn't need them, right?
She has her horse. She suddenly has an aunt who wants her closer than ever-- and riding Slepnir. She has Mariam's nonacceptance from others to juggle, and the refusal of all to accept Fisk. That's also fine, she can handle that. Probably. Mostly.
And then war breaks out. And Sigrid is needed, on the horse who changes her, and she must make decisions about who's living and dying, thrust into a high position due to nepotism-- which everyone knows and no one respects, least of all the Valkyries Sigrid grew up with. Everyone wants her doing the most that she can, but Sigrid cannot without losing herself.
So she must. It's a very well-written corruption arc, in showing how different she is, and how her actions terrify her. Sigrid breaks rules of warfare, breaks expectations of protection, and prioritizes the wrong things, over and over again. And yet, we are constantly reminded this is not her of her own choices; this is her with chaos in her veins. (though to me, I feel it more likely a decided and cruel order, morelike? And we'll find out the subversion in the next book). Sigrid, in her own mind, cannot even recognize herself changing once she's corrupted, and the book grows deeper.
I truly liked the twists and discussions The Valkyrie's Shadow had, even as I waited for them to happen. I look forward to the next, and I hope this book continues to find more readers!
June 13, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for an arc of this book. Here is my review, please note I did not read the first book in this series so it took me a little bit to realize what fully was going on. I would fully recommend reading the books in order!
I am a huge lover of mythology, especially Norse mythology. So this book already had me hooked with that little tidbit alone. I really enjoy this author's writing style and I will be reading more from her for sure. I also can't wait to go back and read the first book in this series. I am expectant for the finale in this series as well.
I enjoyed how the author spent a lot of time focusing on character and relationship development. I don't like when those two aspects are rushed and I didn't feel rushed in this book at all. This book had a lot going on and I was never bored. I was excited during the whole thing and really enjoyed reading this.
I am a huge lover of mythology, especially Norse mythology. So this book already had me hooked with that little tidbit alone. I really enjoy this author's writing style and I will be reading more from her for sure. I also can't wait to go back and read the first book in this series. I am expectant for the finale in this series as well.
I enjoyed how the author spent a lot of time focusing on character and relationship development. I don't like when those two aspects are rushed and I didn't feel rushed in this book at all. This book had a lot going on and I was never bored. I was excited during the whole thing and really enjoyed reading this.
July 28, 2023
I had no idea that this was the second book of the series so keep that in mind. This picked up right after the first book ended from what I gathered and while it did take me a little while to really get in the groove with understanding the world and characters, it wasn't too difficult to catch up. I do think I ended up missing some key relationship and character building by having not read the first book so some of those dynamics never fully clicked for me- almost like walking in on a inside joke.
The overall premise of this was great and kept me engaged with the world and drama. Occasionally the pacing got a little funky for me but it almost always corrected itself quickly. Based on the ending, this is set up to lead to some promising advancements in the series and I'm sure will be a book I pick up.
The overall premise of this was great and kept me engaged with the world and drama. Occasionally the pacing got a little funky for me but it almost always corrected itself quickly. Based on the ending, this is set up to lead to some promising advancements in the series and I'm sure will be a book I pick up.
June 21, 2023
3.5 stars
THE VALKYRIE'S SHADOW continues Sigrid's story from THE VALKYRIE'S DAUGHTER with another high stakes fantasy adventure. Sigrid is still coming to terms with her mother and what she wanted from her, while she is beginning to train with the valkyries, as she had long dreamed of doing. However, she is also separated from her girlfriend and the night elf who had helped her in the first book and become a friend.
After a successful mission to the realm of the night elves, Sigrid finds herself with an unexpected invitation from the new queen to become a princess and expand her education more broadly but also into her family lineage. Skeptical of the queen but curious to learn more, Sigrid reluctantly accepts but with conditions for her friends in exile. With war brewing and Loki's chaos growing, Sigrid will have a bigger role to play than she could have imagined.
What I loved: This series is particularly notable for the way it expands upon Norse mythology in fascinating ways through Sigrid's story. This mythology grows as she visits other worlds and learns more about the royals and her family as well as the ways in which power is controlled. While Sigrid remains hopeful about the world around her, her skepticism is often warranted, especially when she begins to see the privilege held by a few and wielded for their own gain.
Sigrid remains a highly compelling character. Her growth in the first story was by leaps and bounds, and in this sequel, it is a bit more subtle as she is learning to trust herself completely as well as embrace who she is, even with the complicated family dynamics she was exposed to in the first book. Knowing that she was chosen for the mythical horse, Sleipnir, is not made easier by her inner turmoil and wondering what makes her special after a lifetime of being overlooked. However, the outsider perspective she has had through her years as a stable hand is critical to empathizing and gaining her own priorities.
Much of this story includes the war and war scenes, which are challenged by Sigrid's new role and her conflicts over riding Sleipnir, especially with the out of control way that the horse makes her feel. Her skills will be particularly critical in finding a path forward - if she is able. Beyond these themes of personal growth, confidence, influence, and the importance of empathy, other themes around betrayal, complicated family, corrupting power, the weight of punishments, distrust, and friendship are also really thought-provoking in the story.
What left me wanting more: While I absolutely love the romance between Sigrid and Miriam, I found myself wanting more of it in this book. There is a lot of action/adventure going on with the war, so we only get a little bit of the two together and their feelings for one another. While the story is fast-paced as a result, it still would have been great to have even more of the romance, but I suspect this may come up more in the future.
Final verdict: THE VALKYRIE'S SHADOW is a lush YA fantasy about Norse mythology and finding your path, continuing an interesting series. Readers will need to begin with the first book to appreciate this fast-paced, action-packed sequel.
Please note that I received an eARC. All opinions are my own.
THE VALKYRIE'S SHADOW continues Sigrid's story from THE VALKYRIE'S DAUGHTER with another high stakes fantasy adventure. Sigrid is still coming to terms with her mother and what she wanted from her, while she is beginning to train with the valkyries, as she had long dreamed of doing. However, she is also separated from her girlfriend and the night elf who had helped her in the first book and become a friend.
After a successful mission to the realm of the night elves, Sigrid finds herself with an unexpected invitation from the new queen to become a princess and expand her education more broadly but also into her family lineage. Skeptical of the queen but curious to learn more, Sigrid reluctantly accepts but with conditions for her friends in exile. With war brewing and Loki's chaos growing, Sigrid will have a bigger role to play than she could have imagined.
What I loved: This series is particularly notable for the way it expands upon Norse mythology in fascinating ways through Sigrid's story. This mythology grows as she visits other worlds and learns more about the royals and her family as well as the ways in which power is controlled. While Sigrid remains hopeful about the world around her, her skepticism is often warranted, especially when she begins to see the privilege held by a few and wielded for their own gain.
Sigrid remains a highly compelling character. Her growth in the first story was by leaps and bounds, and in this sequel, it is a bit more subtle as she is learning to trust herself completely as well as embrace who she is, even with the complicated family dynamics she was exposed to in the first book. Knowing that she was chosen for the mythical horse, Sleipnir, is not made easier by her inner turmoil and wondering what makes her special after a lifetime of being overlooked. However, the outsider perspective she has had through her years as a stable hand is critical to empathizing and gaining her own priorities.
Much of this story includes the war and war scenes, which are challenged by Sigrid's new role and her conflicts over riding Sleipnir, especially with the out of control way that the horse makes her feel. Her skills will be particularly critical in finding a path forward - if she is able. Beyond these themes of personal growth, confidence, influence, and the importance of empathy, other themes around betrayal, complicated family, corrupting power, the weight of punishments, distrust, and friendship are also really thought-provoking in the story.
What left me wanting more: While I absolutely love the romance between Sigrid and Miriam, I found myself wanting more of it in this book. There is a lot of action/adventure going on with the war, so we only get a little bit of the two together and their feelings for one another. While the story is fast-paced as a result, it still would have been great to have even more of the romance, but I suspect this may come up more in the future.
Final verdict: THE VALKYRIE'S SHADOW is a lush YA fantasy about Norse mythology and finding your path, continuing an interesting series. Readers will need to begin with the first book to appreciate this fast-paced, action-packed sequel.
Please note that I received an eARC. All opinions are my own.
June 14, 2023
Thank you Netgalley & Entangled Teen for an advance copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Despite this book having a slow start, it was a solid sequel to The Valkyrie's Daughter! There was some good action in the back half that made up for that, and the mystery just keeps on growing. Now I am upset that I have to wait for book three, because I would binge this series if I could.
I did with that we learned the deal behind the shadow arrows in this one - it was really being set up like it would be the main mystery of the series. And Helena was always in the background being dangled there, I thought for sure she would be coming back this book too. Who knows, maybe she will reappear in book three?
Anyway, there are a lot of questions that the next book could answer, and I look forward to reading it whenever it gets announced.
Sigrid really goes through it in this book, especially as she is still learning to deal with Slipnir. The author does a fantastic job of showing the differences in Sigrid before and after the influences of the horse, and I look forward to seeing that relationship develop more in the sequel. Same thing with Miriam - they hit some bumps in this story, but I have hopes they will come out stronger for it in the end.
So, yeah, this series is still worth the read. I absolutely loved book one, I think this is a solid sequel, and I look forward to the next installment (maybe the last? Who knows.).
Content warnings: war themes, violence, toxic relationships, gaslighting, blood, death
Despite this book having a slow start, it was a solid sequel to The Valkyrie's Daughter! There was some good action in the back half that made up for that, and the mystery just keeps on growing. Now I am upset that I have to wait for book three, because I would binge this series if I could.
I did with that we learned the deal behind the shadow arrows in this one - it was really being set up like it would be the main mystery of the series. And Helena was always in the background being dangled there, I thought for sure she would be coming back this book too. Who knows, maybe she will reappear in book three?
Anyway, there are a lot of questions that the next book could answer, and I look forward to reading it whenever it gets announced.
Sigrid really goes through it in this book, especially as she is still learning to deal with Slipnir. The author does a fantastic job of showing the differences in Sigrid before and after the influences of the horse, and I look forward to seeing that relationship develop more in the sequel. Same thing with Miriam - they hit some bumps in this story, but I have hopes they will come out stronger for it in the end.
So, yeah, this series is still worth the read. I absolutely loved book one, I think this is a solid sequel, and I look forward to the next installment (maybe the last? Who knows.).
Content warnings: war themes, violence, toxic relationships, gaslighting, blood, death
July 18, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for an arc of this book. Expected Publication: 25 July 2023
Getting to enter back into the world of Sigrid and the Valkyries was such a to pleasure read. From the opening scenes where Sigrid is leading a mission into the realm of the night elves all the way to the end, the twists and turns kept me glued to my kindle. Warner has a wonderful way of writing that keeps the chapters short and interesting, builds a believable world, and uses characters' emotions to make the reader want to know what happens next.
In this sequel, Sigrid is elevated into her rightful place as a princess, and much of the story delves into what that means for her. She must also come to terms with what it means to be the heir of Sleipnir, get the Valkyries that have seen her as less than for her whole life to respect her, and navigate new/young love all while facing the possibility of the utter destruction of her home.
There is much to love about this series, and I cannot wait for the third book.
Readers that are fans of mythology, coming of age novels, military fantasy, and great narrated novels will probably enjoy this series from Tiana Warner.
Getting to enter back into the world of Sigrid and the Valkyries was such a to pleasure read. From the opening scenes where Sigrid is leading a mission into the realm of the night elves all the way to the end, the twists and turns kept me glued to my kindle. Warner has a wonderful way of writing that keeps the chapters short and interesting, builds a believable world, and uses characters' emotions to make the reader want to know what happens next.
In this sequel, Sigrid is elevated into her rightful place as a princess, and much of the story delves into what that means for her. She must also come to terms with what it means to be the heir of Sleipnir, get the Valkyries that have seen her as less than for her whole life to respect her, and navigate new/young love all while facing the possibility of the utter destruction of her home.
There is much to love about this series, and I cannot wait for the third book.
Readers that are fans of mythology, coming of age novels, military fantasy, and great narrated novels will probably enjoy this series from Tiana Warner.
July 25, 2023
Returning from Helheim, Sigrid is made an honorary Valkyrie and sent on her next mission. She and the other junior valkyries are sent to Svartalfheim, the land of the Night Elves to rescue Ratatosk. Unfortunately her success leads to the Night Elves retalliation. And home in Vanaheim, Sigrids’ secrets regarding her lineage and destiny can't stay hidden forever. Not to mention she is hiding Mariam, Fisk and Sleipnir. With war coming, what path will Sigrid choose?
Just poor Sigrid. She goes through it in this book. Orphan to valkyrie to princess. It was quite the ride. We learn more about the political side of the world in this book as Sigrid gets introduced to palace life. Many more side characters are introduced including my new fav Tora, who is just adorable. The relationship between Sigrid and Mariam is very well written and such a good slow burn. And Sigrid herself grows so much in this book, despite Sleipnirs’ influence for part of it. Despite the sombreness of the ending I was proud of who Sigrid was growing to be and cant wait to see her in the next book.
Rating 4 stars
*I received a review copy from NetGalley for my voluntary and honest review
Just poor Sigrid. She goes through it in this book. Orphan to valkyrie to princess. It was quite the ride. We learn more about the political side of the world in this book as Sigrid gets introduced to palace life. Many more side characters are introduced including my new fav Tora, who is just adorable. The relationship between Sigrid and Mariam is very well written and such a good slow burn. And Sigrid herself grows so much in this book, despite Sleipnirs’ influence for part of it. Despite the sombreness of the ending I was proud of who Sigrid was growing to be and cant wait to see her in the next book.
Rating 4 stars
*I received a review copy from NetGalley for my voluntary and honest review
July 20, 2023
For those of us captivated by Norse Mythology, whether because of games like God of War or Valheim, or from Marvel's Thor, or the most recent appearance of Odin and Sleipnir in the Final Fantasy franchise, this book provides a delightful trip into the lore of the North.
This is book 2, but we jump right in, so no one should have trouble picking it up. Of course, some knowledge of the valkyries helps. 🖤
I adore Sigrid. She's the perfect main character - the underdog, the outcast who doesn't quite fit, but with so much strength and determination. Especially to win the woman she loves while struggling to become who she wants to be, not just what others expect. And she's quick and observant, which definitely helps. Even when it seems like the worlds are falling apart.
Ratatosk: "The path to a foe is crooked and rough, even if they live nigh. But the path to a friend is easy and straight, no matter where they reside."
Sigrid: Whatever he was on about, she had yet to find an easy or straight path to anything in life. And she wasn't about to start buying the valkyries gifts.
This is book 2, but we jump right in, so no one should have trouble picking it up. Of course, some knowledge of the valkyries helps. 🖤
I adore Sigrid. She's the perfect main character - the underdog, the outcast who doesn't quite fit, but with so much strength and determination. Especially to win the woman she loves while struggling to become who she wants to be, not just what others expect. And she's quick and observant, which definitely helps. Even when it seems like the worlds are falling apart.
Ratatosk: "The path to a foe is crooked and rough, even if they live nigh. But the path to a friend is easy and straight, no matter where they reside."
Sigrid: Whatever he was on about, she had yet to find an easy or straight path to anything in life. And she wasn't about to start buying the valkyries gifts.
September 30, 2023
4.5 stars
I was really excited to continue Sigrid's story and see how she continued to change and grow from the naive stable hand who was determined to claim her great destiny no matter the price to a more mature leader that finally understood the price of greatness and that it's not always worth paying it.
Something that I didn't like that much was that Sigrid was on her own or isolated for a good bit of the book. It's not necessarily a flaw since she's a great character and her growth was amazing, but I like both Mariam and Fisk so much that rarely seeing them was the reason for which I deducted half a star. Hopefully, there'll be much more of them in the last book. Hestur was amazing as always and Sleipnir also grew on me in this book.
The fights got a little gory for YA, which surprised me a little, at least until I remembered who the author was and what she'd written before.😉
Very much looking forward to the third book.
I was really excited to continue Sigrid's story and see how she continued to change and grow from the naive stable hand who was determined to claim her great destiny no matter the price to a more mature leader that finally understood the price of greatness and that it's not always worth paying it.
Something that I didn't like that much was that Sigrid was on her own or isolated for a good bit of the book. It's not necessarily a flaw since she's a great character and her growth was amazing, but I like both Mariam and Fisk so much that rarely seeing them was the reason for which I deducted half a star. Hopefully, there'll be much more of them in the last book. Hestur was amazing as always and Sleipnir also grew on me in this book.
The fights got a little gory for YA, which surprised me a little, at least until I remembered who the author was and what she'd written before.😉
Very much looking forward to the third book.
August 5, 2023
Tiana Warner masterfully weaves a heart-stopping adventure, skillfully interwoven with the tapestry of Norse mythology.
I recommend reading The Valkyrie's Daughter before picking up "The Valkyrie’s Shadow" as part of this captivating series for a seamless continuity of the story. Picking up right where the first book left off, the story propels us into Sigrid's world as she assumes her role as an honorary Valkyrie, embarking on a crucial mission to rescue Ratatosk the ferryman from the clutches of the Night Elves. Unbeknownst to Sigrid, monumental change awaits her homeland and personal life.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thanks to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing!
I recommend reading The Valkyrie's Daughter before picking up "The Valkyrie’s Shadow" as part of this captivating series for a seamless continuity of the story. Picking up right where the first book left off, the story propels us into Sigrid's world as she assumes her role as an honorary Valkyrie, embarking on a crucial mission to rescue Ratatosk the ferryman from the clutches of the Night Elves. Unbeknownst to Sigrid, monumental change awaits her homeland and personal life.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thanks to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing!
April 16, 2023
A good second book in this series. No sophomore slump!
The story of Sigrid and the Valkyries continues with more adventure and intrigue as well as some romance for a few of our characters. After Sigrid’s encounter with her mother at the end of book one, Sigrid has returned home.Surprises await her as her standing in the world is elevated. She also works on developing her relationship with Sleipnir, Odin’s eight legged horse.
Her relationship with Mariam is a work in progress. Fisk is back in this story, too. As trouble comes to their realm, the characters pull together although not everybody is in total agreement. All in all, a really enjoyable book and I am looking forward to the next book in the series! Happy reading!
The story of Sigrid and the Valkyries continues with more adventure and intrigue as well as some romance for a few of our characters. After Sigrid’s encounter with her mother at the end of book one, Sigrid has returned home.Surprises await her as her standing in the world is elevated. She also works on developing her relationship with Sleipnir, Odin’s eight legged horse.
Her relationship with Mariam is a work in progress. Fisk is back in this story, too. As trouble comes to their realm, the characters pull together although not everybody is in total agreement. All in all, a really enjoyable book and I am looking forward to the next book in the series! Happy reading!
November 9, 2023
Except for the the blaring discrepancy that I posted earlier those that were viewed from both books. Which I hope don't effect peoples curiosity when looking into reading this series. Sigrid is a captivating character that is though forced to live a mostly orphaned life has developed trust of a single handful of people that have demonstrated their willingness to accept her. Which in turn she does the same to them. This is a amazing page turner of a mythology tale that although it could very well end with these 2 books I observed that in last 2 pages they're is an obvious implication of having more to come❗😎
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