I loved the Norse mythology and the Viking history. I found these aspects to be really strong and the world building/character building really good! I prefer this to the bridge kingdom as this felt so strong in plot and banter.

I had high hopes for this book, having read the author's Bridge Kingdom series and really enjoying it for its cleverness and unique plot. Unfortunately, this book felt seriously underwhelming in comparison.

The beginning was interesting, but I felt like it devolved quickly to just the characters travelling from point A to point B. The things that happen in between arise and are done with within a few pages, and seem to have no overall effect on the characters or the plot. I also disliked the romance. The FMC is not very likeable, the "love interest" is bland, and their insta-lust/but I also hate you/"banter" is not engaging in the slightest. It feels very paint-by-numbers, and I've seen it done better in other books.

The FMC also has this insane protective magic which she has hidden her entire life, only using it little bits at a time in secret. When it is revealed and she can use it openly, I expected more of a 'struggle' in embracing her power. This never happens and she's just super-powerful because...prophecy. I don't mind 'chosen one' vibes, but it felt like there was literally no character arc being set up for her. She is also painfully naive, and is probably the only one who didn't see certain twists coming, because they were also pretty predictable.

This was a really promising setup with a magic system derived from mythology which doesn't get so much use in the genre, but it was not done any kind of justice here.

I wanted to really like this, but I was disappointed for several reason.
1. Freya was such a typical YA character that it annoyed me. Everyone treats her like shit especially her family but of course she'll still do everything to save them because she's such a good girl. Plus she's super inexperienced because her ex husband didn't care to pleasure her that she's a blushing maiden for the love interest.
2. Viking inspired but sexism added just to makes life harder for the MC. The vikings were still a patriarchal society, however they were many freedoms women did do have including becoming warriors, owning their own money and land, and divorcing their husband if they wished. I hate the women having no agency trope in genral but I can overlook it in the right fantasy setting, here however it was just added to throw stones into the MCs path and it seemed lazy research.
3. I can excuse insta lust but not insta love. It felt like there was no growth to the relationship of the main couple because they were crazy for each other from the start and it was quite boring.
4. The love storyline was just copy and pasted from from blood and ash. There was even a scene were the guy gets the girl off while all others are sleeping around them just like in fbaa, so someone has been taking notes while reading. The ending was also the same with the love interest betraying the MC but to be fair a lot of fantasy romance books pull this trope like the serpent and the wings of night ect. So I could have overlooked it if it didn't come at no surprise at all, I guessed it 1/3 into the book so...
5. The nickname was absolute cringe. Born-in-fire might ve the worst I heard, and that's coming from someone that liked violence in fourth wing.

I will say however that I really enjoyed the fantasy and the magic system was very original and I enjoyed the way Norse mythology was integrated. And I would've enjoyed the plot much more if it didn't consist solely of the clans fighting because the battle scene became a little repetitive.

Lucky enough to receive an ARC of this, and Wow!
Add this to the top of your TBR for Feb immediately!

Every now and then I start a book that I put off reading and take my time because I don’t want it to end too quickly and this book was absolutely that for me!

Loved the Viking and Norse mythology, so different and refreshing compared to the usual magic systems and having a FMC that can fight and stand up for herself just fits so perfectly in a Viking atmosphere!

This is one of the best fantasy books I have read in a long time, I can’t wait for the next one!

« What I was. My Secret.
My curse. »

Rating: 5⭐️
Genre: Sci Fi & Fantasy, Fiction
Pages: 400
Series?: Saga of the Unfated #1
This book. THIS BOOK!

I LOVED this book. This is now one of my new favorite fantasy books. It was so well written and the storyline was perfect. Everything about it was perfect. The pacing, the characters, all of it.

I was hooked by the beginning and it has everything I love. Strong female lead, hot male attraction, slow burn, mythology, and a strong plot line. In this story they worship the Norse gods which I wasn’t as familiar with but the book has all the information you know. I liked that it was the Norse gods and not ones made up for the book, it was a fun twist. I thought the length was perfect, not too long or too short as some fantasy books are. The pacing also never dulled or went too fast. It was perfectly done.

This was my first book by this author and I will 100% be reading her other books now because she is an amazing author. I HIGHLY recommend this for anyone who was a fan of throne of glass because it's going to be right up there with it! If I could give ten stars, I would.

The book does not come out until next February and now I have to wait even longer to know what happens after that ending!

I loved this book so much I am invested I need more. Considering the amount of books I have read I should have known he was the traitor. I was almost in tears because of it I am literally kicking myself because I didn't guess that it was him. I really liked the concept of having the gods power and how that works. It was a confusing storyline but I did understand it after a bit of time. It is weird I can picture this in my head vividly like I was so disappointed when the story turned back to words instead of the pictures in my head. Freya is such a girl boss and a powerful queen why didn't Bjorn just tell her before. I feel like the marriage to Snorri was not needed like they could have just sworn an oath but it was very relevant to the story like. I do love the name Snorri there is always one character that has to have a funny name. I really loved this book and I need more i done think it can wait.

This book solidifies why this author is my go to for epic fantasy romance. The world building is incredible and the I appreciated the Norse references too, it helped to create vivid pictures in my head. The plot is fast paced with plenty of adventure, drama and tension and romance. I couldn’t put this down.

Freya as the main character is fiesty and likeable. I love her character progression. Her chemistry with Bjorn is fabulous. I can’t wait to see what happens next. Ends on a cliffhanger


I received an advanced copy of this book from my NetGalley and the publisher and am voluntarily leaving a review.

When I say I could not put this down omg!! A Fate Inked in Blood by Danielle L Jensen. is one of the best fantasy (or romantasy??) books I've read in a while. I loved the way the world building tied in Norse/Viking mythology in such a seamless way, it made it easy to understand who all the characters were and is one I would definitley recommend to anyone who enjoys the delightful combination of gods and mortals. Our heroine of the book, Freya, is likeable in the way that she just wants to be in control of herself, despite what many others around her think. Bjorn was also excellent, and I loved the wicked banter the two main characters had. The only downside is that this is just the first book in the series and I'm already desperate to read the next!!
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Danielle L.Jensen and Random House for the fantastic opportunity to read this book and I'm so excited to see where this book series goes. :)

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Was I lucky enough to be gifted an e-arc to this book? Yes. Has that stopped me from pre-ordering the book to own my own physical copy. NOPE!

This was a brilliant book, DJ weaved a fantastic norse world build into this fantasy novel and has delivered a strong female MC who is at war with herself as well as those around her in a bid to protect her family from the capricious leaders of her world that would use her fated non-fate (this will make sense when you read the book!) for their own gains. I was pulled into this books and enjoyed every minute of it to the point I was annoyed when the real world stopped me reading it!

The characters of the story were true and well written, the banter between Freya and Bjorn for example, and we were robbed of Bild in my opinion. There is a growing urgency that is well weaved through the story, especially the last quarter, and while I was waiting for the inevitable plot to drop through much of the book, it did not lose its impact when it did.

If you enjoyed DJ’s other works as well as strong female leads and norse mythology I highly recommend picking up this book when it comes out Feb 2024, I will just be sitting over here desperately waiting for book 2…..

I’m not sure I can accurately put into words how much I loved this book. I was in the biggest reading slump when I started the ARC for A Fate Inked in Blood and consumed it over two days. What I love about Danielle’s books is that she makes fantasy an accessible genre for everyone. This book has a Norse setting and characters, with a magic system which are gifts from the gods. You don’t need to know about Norse Mythology or history to understand the story and I love that this could be your first fantasy book ever and it’s got something for everyone.

Freya is a fisherman's wife, tired of being mistreated by her emotionally abusive husband she dreams of becoming a warrior and fighting for her freedom. When a family secret is revealed her life is turned upside down and she is forced to marry a man who would use her gifts to make himself King. For the sake of her family, Freya goes along with these plans but is constantly taunted by her growing attraction to her new husband’s warrior son Bjorn. Forced to work together to save their country from raiders and save Freya from those who would kidnap or kill her, Bjorn and Freya form a tense alliance which puts them at odds with those around them.

Danielle has an amazing gift of drawing you in and keeping you guessing on what twist with come next. Having read both The Bridge Kingdom and Dark Shores series I knew what to expect at the end of Danielle’s books but that ending still has me gasping! The characters, plot and setting are all amazing and I honestly cannot praise this book enough!

A Fate Inked in Blood is out February 27th next year and the North American edition has a whole selection of special features!

Ratings
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐️

Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This Norse inspired fantasy romance was everything I hoped it would be. I was quickly drawn in by the main character Freya, she was easy to root for but also morally a more complicated heroine which made this quite the engrossing read. This fantasy is heavily inspired by Norse mythology, not just the world itself but a lot of the actual story is indoctrinated in the Norse history. The magic system being a very interesting part of this. In this world people gifted with a drop of Gods blood inherit powers in a similar vein of the God in which their power comes from. Our protagonist Freya being one of the characters gifted with a drop of Goddess blood.

The story starts out with Freya in a unhappy and unsatisfying arranged marriage to a Man known for both his gift from the gods to control the sea, in way of providing food for her village but also as a controlling and boorish person to which she very much hates. All while dreaming to become a warrior such as her brother, Freya follows along with the duties she has been tasked. That is until a betrayal from her husband causes her to reveal that which she has kept secret. She is quickly thrown into a very different role than that she once had. Challenged to fight to the death against ‘Bjorn’ the son of the Jarl, she must use her powers to survive. These events leading her into another arrangement she very much wants no part in. Along the way she faces trials from the Gods and many other people who once again try to control her for their own gain.

My favourite thing about this book is the character development and relationships that are built. The author has a talent for creating believable relationships that feel real. The banter between Freya and Bjorn was both amusing and made for quite the tension. I would say it’s kind of a lust at first sight thing, but the relationship itself in my opinion has a slow and steady build that had me on the edge of my seat. At times I did find Freya annoying to read from, mostly because I guessed some of the plot points early on and while I kind of new what was coming Freya seemed blind to it. Which on one hand was insufferable because it seemed she was not thinking clearly, but on the other side of things it was realistic for her to be blinded by her emotions in certain ways. So this was something I didn’t enjoy but I did think it was well written.

As a whole there is a lot going on in this book and even though this is a start to a series Jensen does an amazing job at creating a well rounded story. With well a built world and interesting characters, it feels like a whole story in itself but also the beginning to a greater series I’m very interested to continue in the future.

A Fate Inked in Blood takes readers on an enthralling journey into the heart of Nordic folklore, weaving a captivating narrative around the intertwined destinies of its main characters, Freya and Bjorn. With bloodlines that trace back to powerful Norse deities, Freya, a fierce shield maiden with the blood of Hlin, and Bjorn, the son of a jarl bearing the blood of Tyr, are destined to play pivotal roles in their world.

The central theme of fate and its manipulation by Jarl Snorri forms the crux of the story. Snorri's relentless pursuit of power leads him to orchestrate a marriage with Freya, driven by a prophecy that promises him kingship. This sets the stage for a compelling conflict that unfolds throughout the book.

What truly sets this tale apart is the beautifully executed slow-burn forbidden romance between Freya and Bjorn. Their connection defies societal norms and adds layers of complexity to their characters. As their relationship deepens, readers are drawn into their emotional journey, making every stolen moment and secret rendezvous all the more captivating.

The author's skillful storytelling and vivid descriptions bring the rich world of Norse mythology to life, immersing readers in a realm of ancient gods, warriors, and prophecies. The pacing of the narrative keeps readers engaged, with each chapter unveiling new twists and revelations that heighten the intrigue.

Forever one of my favourite authors and she’s done it again.

Another amazing world to be sucked into, the perfect mix of action and romance, characters to swoon over… I couldn’t put it down. I’m already looking forward to a sequel I don’t even know is coming!

Thankyou to NetGalley and Random House UK/Cornerstone for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I adored the Bridge Kingdom series by Danielle L. Jensen, so I was expecting to be blown away by this book. But unfortunately, it just wasn’t for me.

One thing I loved about The Bridge Kingdom was how atmospheric and immersive the writing and the world building was. But the world building was severely lacking in this book. Given the Nordic setting, there could have been some stunning descriptions, but we got nothing. The writing also felt very clunky and awkward, and the dialogue would switch between being overly formal and old fashioned to more modern, which was jarring.

The magic system was interesting (being gifted a drop of blood from a God at conception and therefore having some of their powers) but I wish it had been explained more. The Gods are mentioned constantly, as a reason for literally ANYTHING anyone does, but I wish they had been a bigger part of the story and developed more.

As for the plot, it wasn’t engaging, and it was poorly paced and repetitive. I felt myself losing interest even in the more action-packed scenes. There was also a lot of tell rather than show, which I really dislike in books.

The characters were all bland, annoying, and quite frankly, stupid. Some decisions that are made lack so much logic, but were made to try and advance the plot. There was absolutely no chemistry between the two main characters, and their relationship felt very insta-lovey and cringey.

I saw the ending coming from a mile away, as it was so reminiscent of other fantasy romance books, particularly a very popular one that was released recently.

Ultimately I was left very disappointed after reading this book, and I won’t be continuing on with the series.

Thank you NetGalley, Random House UK, Cornerstone, Del Rey and Danelle L. Jensen for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This is a fantasy romance that takes inspiration from Norse mythology skillfully intertwining themes of resilience, determination and love in a captivating manner. We meet Freya, a warrior woman who becomes entangled in a web of political intrigue when she discovers she possesses a trace of divine blood.

Freya is a character whose strength, independence, and determination shine brilliantly throughout the story. Her resilience is so inspiring, and she never gives up, no matter the challenges thrown her way. It's safe to say that Freya's unwavering spirit makes her a character you'll wholeheartedly root for from beginning to end.

Amidst the landscape an illicit love blossoms between Freya and Bjorn the son of the jarl. Bjorns charm and wit are irresistible to Freya as they embark on a burning romance portrayed with prose. Their connection transcends attraction as they delve deep into emotional bonds they share.

While love and romance are central to the story, there is also a generous dose of action and adventure. Freya must train to fight and learn to control her magic, all while facing perilous tests set by the gods.

The skillful narrative shines through in the well-paced plot, filled with revelations that keep you captivated and eager to continue reading. The way the world is constructed and the characters are developed adds depth to the unfolding drama. While the story occasionally follows a predictable path, the strength of the characters and their emotional journey more than compensates for any minor predictabilities.

In conclusion, "A Fate Inked in Blood" is a well-written and engaging fantasy romance. Its complex and well-developed characters, exciting plot, and heartwarming romance make it a must-read. Freya's journey, marked by her tenacity, will inspire and tug at your heartstrings, while the evolving love story adds depth to the narrative. If you're in search of a book that explores the resilience of the human spirit and the power of love, then this is a tale that beckons you to immerse yourself in its enchanting world.

When your blood determines if you have a fate or your destiny is still setting, your life choices are weighing much and your romantic life practically doesnt exist, is there something that can be worse?

Yes, there is, and I felt bad for Freya at the begining of her story. Freya - FMC from newest book series written by Danielle L. Jensen, author of books such as The Bridge Kingdom and The Traitor Queen - has the best set of character traits you can only imagine. Strong-minded, protective, loyal and sassy. Her life did not spare her. Married to a jerk, left with expectations and broken heart, she is trying her best not to fall apart, untill everything else falls apart, and she has no other choice but to reveal her true identity.

Freya lives in a world straight from Norse Viking Stories. Her village is under protection of Jarl Snorri, her kingdom unstable and splitted by powerhungry raiders. In that world, everyone has a fate, destiny written somewhere, and no matter what you do, you can’t change that. But well, a few „luckers” are born with a drop of Gods blood, so if you are one of them, you are unfated. That means every decision you are making, has a consequences, and you have to live with your choices and forge your own destiny. Drop of Gods blood let you also inherit Gods power - ofc it depends on which God was willing to give that drop, e.g. if it was Thor that means you can wield thunders etc.

In a world full of magic and fates, prophecies and seers carries huge power. One prophecy can change lifes of many - for sure it changes Freya’s life. When Jarl Snorri takes her as her wife, because he belives he can control her fate and become King, only one person seems to care about her.

Bjorn. A warrior. Friend. Lover. Mystery.

„When I closed my eyes, the vision of him coming out of the water filled my mind’s eye, all tattooed skin and muscle, not a spare ounce of flesh on him. Every bit a warrior, and that face . . . Mortals shouldn’t be allowed such beauty for it made fools of everyone else, his silver tongue making it all the worse because even if he’d been ugly as a pig’s arse, Bjorn was bloody charming.”

Yes 🥵🥵 he is every bit of bookboyfriend material, so fine, protective, with filthy mouth - PERFECTION 💦 but is he?

Well, the problem is that, Freya is married to his father.. So well, it can’t work, but will it stop them from longing to one another? Will Snorri achieve what he wants and become a King? Will Freya be finally free from monstrous men?

You are yet to find out in that excellent book! Im so thrilled I could read it as an ARC reader, so thank you NetGalley for that opportunity!

If you love:

🌊 excellent fantasy world fill of magic, based in Norse Mythology
🌊 following fate and prophecies
🌊 forbidden love
🌊 hidden identity
🌊 strangers to allies to lovers
🌊 slow burn
🌊 forced proximity
🌊 strong, loyal and protective FMC

this book is for you!

5/5 ⭐️
1.5/5 🌶️

A well written historical fantasy with a viking romance. I absolutely loved the world building of the gods and the lore crafted by Jensen. The magic integrated into world was fascinating. This was a fantastic story including battles, political intrigue and a slow burn romance to top it all off.

One of my favourite aspects was Freya's morality struggle and seeing her grow more confident with the unfated prophecy in the books to come will be interesting.

Freya and Bjorn have swiftly rose to the top of my favourite couple list. From Danielle's, the bridge kingdom series, I expect the betrayal to come but it still hurts. Because it's so well written. I know Danielle won't let us have happiness unless we suffer first so I need the next book ASAP. I'm too excited to wait. 4.5 ⭐

Brilliant! 5/5
I inhaled this Nordic adventure, with its plot twists and emotional scarring.
A fate Inked in blood was action packed from start to finish, with a light sprinkling of Nordic politics and an easy to understand but very interesting magic system.

This was a perfect, slow burn, romantic fantasy. And our MMC is *chefs kiss*

I have never read any Viking books before, but this may have opened me up to pursue more!
Looking forward to reading the next one, and have already preordered a special edition.

Omg...Norse mythology meets magical fantasy. My new favorite! I loved this book from start to finish. It's very rare to see a well written female character with actual wit and someone honest with themselves about their feelings. I loved every second of the banter between Freya and Björn, and such a refreshing take on forbidden romance. The world building was great, plot was well paced, I didn't feel bored at any point. Although I saw the ending coming from far, it was still enjoyable. Cant wait for next installment of this series!

Special thanks to Random House UK, Del Rey and Netgalley for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this read. It gave me everything I could’ve wanted as a fan of Vikings.

Feisty maiden
Hot warrior
Magic

The only thing I ever do struggle with is insta love/lust and this had it.

HOWEVER I was still able to enjoy everything this book had to offer!

Thank you Netgallery and DLJ for this arc!