Spellbinding from the first chapter! I greatly enjoyed this book despite how complicated it is, full of characters sprawled across 10th century kingdoms, with ever-changing loyalties and myriad connections to one another. However complicated the political and geographical lines are, the characters are all richly drawn. The story is primarily centered around Swietoslawa of Poland, Sven of Sweden, and Olav of Norway. I was immediately charmed by the headstrong Swietoslawa and felt the tension caused by her father’s ambitions in every section centered in Poland in the beginning of the book.

I greatly enjoyed following Swietoslawa's journey as she grew into a headstrong woman, still tied to negotiating peace or political ties but also independent and fulfilling her owns desires.

Let me say (written to avoid spoilers), I was delighted later in the book by a reveal of sorts regarding an early scene of two people unknown to one another crossing paths. (Perhaps I just wasn't observant enough regarding the scene. But it was written deliberately enough that it all fell into place later.)

Things definitely were confusing at times and details I found important often occurred during time skips and were recounted after the fact, but I still enjoyed this book greatly. I stayed up all night to read from Chapter 42 to Chapter 53 because those final chapters of the book really got interesting. I was eager to see how Swietoslawa handled her changing position of power (sorry for the vagueness. Trying not to spoil the story). I'm disappointed it ended on such a cliffhanger and hope a second, translated installment will follow soon.

Verdict
A marvelous, sprawling look at actual historical figures of the 10th century (though, of course, highly fictionalized since info regarding women of that time is sparse or contradictory). This was just my cup of tea.

So, who would enjoy this book?
Historical fiction lovers, especially those who enjoy tales of powerful women navigating the intrigues of royal marriages and royal life, will love this. It had a smattering of sex scenes to sate those who love steamy historical fiction but keeps the focus on the strength and insight of Swietoslawa, the Bold One. However, be warned, this is not a fantasy book and is not really comparable to "Game of Thrones," as some have suggested. If you're expecting GoT vibes, you'll be disappointed. This is more History Channel's "Vikings" than GoT.