Really interesting!

What if the Vikings were complicated humans rather like we are? What if there was a psychopath in their midst as well as real multidimensional women who are different from each other? What if the characters were in a really grim situation that was more than the usual conflict? The historical detail is very good and there’re is philosophy as well as magic. Very thoughtful, thorough and complex.

6 people found this helpful

Good reading

I struggled in the beginning of this book thinking I wasn't going to make it through it. But as always Juliet Marillier drew me in and hooked me. It is a tragic tale but yet shines with hope.

7 people found this helpful

Getting A Little Too Old For Her Books...

This was just like any of her other books. Clever/dark haired seedy character who's intent is extremely apparent, righteous/seemingly simple/muscular fellow who is more than he appears, smart/spiritual/slight leading lady who is beautiful and prefers being a tom boy vs. being a proper lady, and (!!spoiler alert!!) everyone ends up well off/royal.

Now to that point, it was enjoyable. The narrator did an excellent job with all of the accents and especially narrating a story from a male's point of view.

Juliet has a beautiful talent for describing landscapes and painting a scene. Her writing is skilled and very pleasing to hear. She really knows how to build up tension and give a gratifying ending. However, her storytelling ability is a bit lacking in diversity (Which is ironic since being a good storyteller is another common character aspect you'll find in her books).

With all that being said, I believe this is going to be the last book I read of hers. These books just don't captivate me like they used to. I think I'm just getting too old. I'll probably reread a few once my daughter is old enough to introduce these books to.

10 people found this helpful

A story you never want to end!!

This story was so well written and read that I couldn't wait for the next chance I had to listen to it again, even if it was only 5 min. The narrator's ability to play the part of so many roles and so many voices and change of accents only added to the depth of the story. I cant wait to hear the next book in the series!

4 people found this helpful

damn that was good

I am usually too lazy to bother doing this, yet here I am doing it

12 people found this helpful

Ms. Marillier does it again!

Her books are just great! More, more, more. another of hers I love! These books transport to another time and place.. one full of mystery and magic. I am sad when each one ends as I enjoy the realm she creates so much. Thanks!

2 people found this helpful

A wonderful fantasy adventure from one of the very best.

If you’ve read Juliet Marillier before, I need only say that this is another really wonderful storyline which she treats with her familiar mastery.
If you haven’t yet had the pleasure of discovering her; just believe me when I say she’s one of the very best writers of fantasy ever. If you love fantasy, you’re going to love this book. And afterwards I highly recommend the, Blackthorn and Grim, Bridei, and Sevenwaters series.
Since first discovering her, I’ve devoured nearly every book she’s written, so I’m biased in the sense that this is one of my all time favorite writers. Still, I think my reasons are sound.
This is is really good fantasy.

A bore fest

I muscled through this book because of the credit. I wanted to like this book. 20 hours in I figured I may as well finish it. The narrator was amazing and this books only saving grace.

Loved the book!

Juliet Marillier does it again. The tale transports you to the time of the Vikings. It opened a doorway into their motives and lives. The narrator was amazing.

1 person found this helpful

Great book

I read this years ago and loved it. I have been waiting for an audio version for years, and I must say I was not disappointed. The narrator did a wonderful job, beautiful voice. Now I'm just waiting on the second book Foxmask.

1 person found this helpful