A Fate Inked in Blood Review
Although I wouldn’t consider myself a fantasy fanatic, every now and then, I love to pick up something a little other worldly. There’s something about fantasy world building that always feels so addictively immersive. New countries, cultures, magic! Last year I tore through the entirety of Throne of Glass, and have had a soft sport for fantasy ever since. I’ve never read anything written by Danielle L. Jensen before, but when I found A Fate Inked in Blood through a Goodreads newsletter, I immediately added it to my library holds. With Norse mythology, a fierce heroine, and a broody love interest, this book seemed to have it all. Or so I thought. Here is my A Fate Inked in Blood Review.
The Plot
Freya is a shield maiden with a drop of divine blood that gives her extraordinary power. Taught to keep her power secret from any who might abuse it, Freya has lived a quiet life. However, when her husband sells her out to the region’s jarl, she is forced to reveal her power or forfeit her life. Before long, Freya finds herself at the center of power dynamics and prophecies where she must decide what’s right for her people and for herself. However, nothing is straightforward, and Freya must learn to fight for herself, her people, and for her heart.
Review
This book started out so strong. I loved the premise— mythology and demi-gods! It felt like an adult version of Percy Jackson. Albeit Norse instead of Greek. This book had so much going for it— lush setting, broody ‘touch her and die’ mmc, half-god heroine just coming into her power. Alas. While the first few chapters had me HOOKED, by the middle, I was counting the pages until the end.
I guess my main issue with this novel was the main character, Freya. I don’t think I’ve ever encountered a more insufferable main character. She started out strong. She had a dream to be a warrior, she was determined to learn about her power, and she desperately wanted to protect those that she loves. And then…she got obsessed with blood lust and vengeance. Not only that, but she also refused to take a second to THINK. Maybe things weren’t as they seemed! But Freya wouldn’t know because she took everything at face value. She couldn’t see clearly, made rash and irresponsible decisions, and seemed to have no real purpose outside of seemingly random vengeance. When she got mad a Bjorn for being ‘brainwashed,’ I had to roll my eyes. It’s a bit of the pot and the kettle, no?
I didn’t expect to be so disappointed with this novel. I think I’m just in mourning of its potential. While there were some exciting action sequences and fun romance scenes, my frustration with Freya overpowered all the good parts. Anyway, I read it to the end, but instead of feeling a desperate desire to read the sequel, all I felt was relief that it was over.
Tropes
Forced Proximity, Forbidden Love, Touch Her and Die MMC
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*Readers should note, this book is Rated R.
Xx, M
