This book really shocked me in the best way possible. I was not expecting the historically rich world building or slow developed plot to accompany the slow burn romance. 

I’m sad to see that so many readers were disappointed by these discoveries as for me they were a pure joy to discover! How can you be upset that you expect to find mediocre “spicy” writing and instead find the first book of a beautifully written, well researched, Viking fantasy romance?! 

BUT WAIT THATS NOT ALL NO! The author also gives us interesting, complex characters that clearly struggle and will continue to struggle with the their concepts of what is right and wrong based on their vastly different upbringings. Our FMC and MMC are technically enemies on different sides of an ever evolving conflict and fight for power (men, am I right?), and yet their relationship is so soft and tender. I was swooning! 

I will say that this book has some series trigger warnings. There are some very violent and difficult scenes and themes, including unwilling human sacrifice. There are also very complex religious themes that are integral to the plot and characters that may be triggering to some people.

Now so many people were saying this wasn’t spicy enough… I personally cannot relate to that sentiment. This book explicitly states it is a slow burn, EVENTUAL reverse haram and we are only the first book in to a SIX BOOK SERIES! That being said, while there is not why choose in this book there is definitely tension and SPICE between the two main characters. We have pining, longing, and a very hot moments that combine it all. Of course we don’t have insta satisfaction though and there is plenty of room to grow. I can only imagine the way this will all build! 

I’m very excited to continue this series and am simply delighted to see these books get thicker and thicker as we go!