I like puzzles. A lot. So much so that if I read a book (or, in this case, a series) that interconnects and has twists and turns and puzzles, I am over the moon. Such it is with Matt Larkin’s Ragnarok Era series, specifically The Mists of Niflheim.
1. Thoughts on the plot
It’s been a while since I’ve read the first book in this series, so it took me a minute to remember what had happened. But, if you’re at all familiar with Norse mythology, then this book makes perfect sense. I like the blend of the strangeness of the Norse myths (and let’s be honest, some are quite odd) with the dark realities of trying to survive. I think it works very well, especially the pieces where Odin ventures deep into the ether.
And, of course, the book ends on a dramatic bit that just…I mean…COME ON! Now I have to go read the next one or be severely disappointed that I don’t know what’s going to happen next.
2. Thoughts on the characters
As always with mythology retellings, it can be difficult to have the characters become something more than the stereotype that they were made in the original myths. I think this whole series does quite well at taking a base character and making them something more, something deeper. Tyr especially brought this out, and I really loved the development. I think Sigyn could have used a bit more depth, but frankly, where she was left at the end of the book promises a great deal of depth.
3. Favourite part
I know that this is accurate to the mythology, but Tyr’s sword being named Gramr made me smile every time. A god of war, battling with grammar. It just warmed my writerly heart. Yes, I know, I know, mythology and homonyms and all that. But still.
4. Critique
My only real critique is that I couldn’t quite remember what had happened in the first book, so it took a minute to get rolling into the story. But that’s mostly on me and the fact that I read the other book a while back. Definitely do not go into this wondering, though!
Overall, I am perhaps far too eager for the next book. Excellent, as always!