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North of the Stars

In Love and War Series, Book 1

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North of the Stars

By: Monica James
Narrated by: Jennifer Smith, Derek Duvall
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About this listen

England is burning. And the cause . . . men are too afraid to utter in nothing but a whisper. The Northmen.

My father is King Eanred. And me? I am Princess Emeline.

My father wants to protect our kingdom against the ruthless Vikings who continue to raid England, so he has betrothed me to Aethelwulf, the son of King Egbert of Wessex—the most powerful realm in all of England. Without this union, Northumbria will fall, which is why I must submit. I must do this for my people.

However, it is not in my nature to surrender. So when my father captures the most savage Viking known in our land, I do what no good, God-fearing Christian would do—I help him. His name . . . Skarth the Godless.

People fear what they don't understand, but I will not allow that to control me. Fear makes us blind to the truth, and I refuse to cower because Skarth soon becomes my teacher—in all things. And when his rival, Ulf the Bloody, shatters my world, it becomes clear the lessons have only just begun.

My soul is tarnished. I am a sinner. Lord, hear my prayer . . .

Contains mature themes.

©2021 Monica James (P)2023 Tantor Historical Historical Fiction Romance Royalty Middle Ages England Viking
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The idea behind the story was good but the execution was terrible. there was no world building, the writing felt like it was written in dot points.

clunky writing

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North of the Stars presents a Viking-era narrative that focuses on conflicting duties, changing alliances, and the challenges faced by individuals living within strict cultural and political structures. The story follows characters whose decisions are shaped by their positions in their respective communities, and the plot includes territorial disputes and group-based conflict common to the period. The author includes several unexpected developments and shifts in direction that help maintain steady momentum throughout the book.

This was my first time experiencing a Monica James title, as well as my first Viking-themed story, and I found the historical framing and world structure consistently clear and easy to follow. The book ends with a setup for the next instalment in the series, which may appeal to listeners who prefer multi-book arcs.

The narration by Jennifer Smith and Derek Duvall is well executed. Both narrators deliver distinct character voices, consistent pacing, and clear articulation. Their performances support the tone of the setting and help differentiate viewpoints and dialogue throughout the audiobook.

Listeners should be aware that the book includes mature themes and scenes of violence related to the historical context. The content may not be suitable for all audiences, and discretion is recommended.

Overall, this audiobook may suit listeners who enjoy Viking-era settings, historical conflict, and character-driven storylines that continue across multiple books.

Engaging Viking-Era Storytelling.

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In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.