The Witch's Heart

The tale of Angrboda and Loki is one of love, strength, and loss, and Genevieve Gornichec shows this beautifully. I really need to do some research on the history of these mythologies. I have quickly become obsessed with the stories of these scary gods.

As with most mythological retellings I read, I went into it not previously knowing the story. I don't think I had ever even heard of Angrboda. But that didn't diminish how much I enjoyed this story. Angrboda's strength and resilience created such a rich backbone to this story. Loki, while annoying and ultimately not great, still had a soft spot in my heart. He genuinely cared for Angrboda and their children. Also, Hel is the best and I love her, that is all.

The pacing of this book never felt off. While definitely a slower paced book, I still feel like I treasured every moment spent with these characters. Angrboda's relationship with Skadi brought me to tears multiple times. The lives her children led were beautiful and poetic. Everything about this book was a success in my eyes. I recommend it to lovers of mythology everywhere.

TW: animal death, blood, bones, death, gore, kidnapping, murder, poisoning, snakes, terminal illness, torture, violence