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.

*I got this book from the publisher to review*
I loved this author talk on the Valkyrie myth. This book was so fast pace and I really loved both the characters and also the world building. I thought all of these elements made the book not only engaging but also so enjoyable to read. I was not in love with romance that developed and felt like I would have enjoyed the book more, if those two characters remained friends. But I am really excited to read book two and am happy it comes out mid 2018! I will def being checking out how this series ends! If you enjoy percy jackson novels but with a focus on world budding and romance I would rec you check out this book! ( )

*I got this book from the publisher to review*
I loved this author talk on the Valkyrie myth. This book was so fast pace and I really loved both the characters and also the world building. I thought all of these elements made the book not only engaging but also so enjoyable to read. I was not in love with romance that developed and felt like I would have enjoyed the book more, if those two characters remained friends. But I am really excited to read book two and am happy it comes out mid 2018! I will def being checking out how this series ends! If you enjoy percy jackson novels but with a focus on world budding and romance I would rec you check out this book! ( )

Thank you so much to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review “Between the Blade and the Heart” by Amanda Hocking. Malin and her mother Marlow lead an interesting life as Valkyries, though it isn’t without moral questions at times. They are assigned to go out and kill those whose time it has been deemed to die. I found the world-building creative and am interested to see what happens next.

Summary (from the publisher)

When the fate of the world is at stake
Loyalties will be tested.

Game of Thrones meets Blade Runner in this commanding new YA fantasy inspired by Norse Mythology from New York Times bestselling author Amanda Hocking.

As one of Odin's Valkyries, Malin's greatest responsibility is to slay immortals and return them to the underworld. But when she unearths a secret that could unravel the balance of all she knows, Malin along with her best friend and her ex-girlfriend must decide where their loyalties lie. And if helping the blue-eyed boy Asher enact his revenge is worth the risk -- the the world and her heart.

As one of Odin's Valkyries, Malin's greatest responsibility is to slay immortals and return them to the underworld. But when she unearths a secret that could unravel the balance of all she knows, Malin along with her best friend and her ex-girlfriend must decide where their loyalties lie. And if helping the blue-eyed boy Asher enact his revenge is worth the risk—to the world and her heart.

My thoughts:

Amanda Hocking has created a rich, vibrant world based on Norse and other mythologies. Gods, Goddesses, the Valkyrie....it's all in this new young adult series! I loved this book....the world building is rich, the storyline is amazing! Another great book from Amanda Hocking!

I enjoyed Malin as a main character. She is very torn between duty and emotions. She has to deal with self doubt and the pull of relationship ties, as she tries to sift her way through secrets and dangers. For me, the story brought a new facet to the mythologies. I will definitely be reading more of this series as it comes out.

AUTHOR BIO:

Amanda Hocking is the author of more than twenty young adult novels, including the New York Times bestselling Trylle Trilogy and Kanin Chronicles. Her love of pop culture and all things paranormal influence her writing. She spends her time in Minnesota, taking care of her menagerie of pets and working on her next book.

**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from St. Martins Press via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.** ( )