Valkyrie Rising

Disclaimer: I received an eARC from netgalley.com in exchange for my review.

I've read a few Amanda Hocking books. Each one has a compelling world. Her new “Valkyrie” series is no different. Imagine a world where the supernatural, global god pantheons (in this book, it heavily relies on the Norse pantheon), and technology come alive, peacefully coexisting with their own rules and regulations. This is the world Hocking drops us into. I'm such a geek for magic and technology; Shadowrun the RPG being one of my all-time favorite game settings. So, I was pleasantly squeeing when I dove into this book.

In Between the Blade and the Heart, we're introduced to Malin, a Valkyrie-in-training. She's just come back from her latest assignment to find an intruder in her apartment. And thus, starts the quest that leads us through the rest of the story, that takes her through her city, pushing her past what she thought was the truth about her vocation, and deep into Mexico.

Hocking does a great job of building her books. The world feels real, her characters are wonderfully flawed, and they feel real wandering around their setting. This new series is fast paced, contains a great bi-love triangle (about time!), and leaves us with a cliff-hanger that I didn't see coming (too much). It also contains the cutest little pet critter I've ever read in a book (Malin, if you read this... I'd be more than happy to take care of Bowie any time).

If you like your urban fantasy with a mythical twist, some cool technology, and a bunch of kick-ass heroines, then give Between the Blade and the Heart a read. Eagerly awaiting book two!

I really liked it.
Lots of action!!!
I loved her brothers protective side and how his best friend falls for the little sister, didnt see that one coming from a mile away.!

Between the Blade and the Heart (Valkyrie #1) is a brand-new series by Amanda Hocking that is based on Norse Mythology and more specifically the training of a young Valkyrie who discovers that her life and all she believed was twisted lies and hidden agendas.  I have to admit when this first came on to Netgalley it reminded me a little bit of Lost Girl the show I couldn't get enough of that show so I could not wait to read it. This was easy entertaining and fast paced and a series I will definitely continue. While this is not my first book by Amanda Hocking this is the first book by her that will be getting a 4 star rating. I found the concept well thought out but my connection with the characters just did not happen the way I would have liked... That being said I loved the end it left me curious and wanting more. All and all I would recommend this to anyone who wants to get lost in a beautifully written fantasy and doesn't mind a cliff hanger because this book has one. Thank you to all parties that made it possible for me arc. I really did enjoy this book.

It speaks about Odin, Thor, Loki, and much of the other norse mythology characters. It does not speak of Odin as a God which i liked. He just seemed like a king to me.
There was no inappropriate scenes or LGBT stuff for those wondering.
I really liked the deep friendship and close sister bonds.
Overall, I enjoyed it!!

I'll admit that I chose Valkyrie Rising because I was looking for something a little bit different than what I had been reading. I was intrigued by the setting and definitely by the idea of the plot. The rich setting of Norway sounded like a perfect place to weave a tale. Plus I mean, Valkyries? Kick-ass female warriors? Yes please. I was ready to be wowed.

It didn't take me long to totally adore Ellie, the main character. Constantly in the shadow of her older brother, Ellie is overprotected and unsure of herself. All she really wants is for something exciting to happen. Something new. She gets her wish! When the action picks up, and the Valkyries come into play, it's hard to stop reading. I loved watching Ellie discover her true self and couldn't help but root for her to embrace it.

Oh, and the romance of course! I can't forget to share that. I won't spoil, but I will say that this was such a sweet build up. Slow, steady, and downright adorable. This is the type of love that grows and begs to be fulfilled. I found myself wanting to shake Ellie and let her know that the perfect guy was right in front of her if only she looked! I won't delve too far, since I want you to discover it for yourself, but it's so worth it.

The setting was perfection, the plot was evenly paced, and to be honest I read through Valkyrie Rising so quickly that I was left wishing I had another book in my hands to follow it up with. It looks like this is shaping up to be a series, and I sincerely hope so! I found a lot to love in Ingrid Paulson's writing. This was a breath of fresh Norse air, and I can't wait for more.