Member Reviews
I adore this author’s work. It’s so evident that they do the research to put out a fantastic story. The Witch’s Heart was one of my favorite books read in 2022, so I knew I had to read this one. I’m so eager to see where Gornichec goes with fiction, I cannot get enough of these stories!!!!
The Weaver and the Witch Queen by Genevieve Gornichec weaves an enchanting tale of friendship, ambition, and destiny set against the backdrop of 10th century Norway. The story follows Gunnhild and sisters Oddny and Signy as they navigate a world filled with Norse mythology and prophetic dangers that threaten to tear them apart. Gornichec’s masterful character development allows readers to connect deeply with the protagonists, who are flawed yet fiercely determined to shape their own futures. With elements of romance and a rich narrative style, this historical fantasy captures the complexities of female empowerment and the bonds that unite us.
There’s a lot to appreciate in The Weaver and the Witch Queen, especially for fans of myth-inspired fantasy, but ultimately, it didn’t resonate with me enough to finish it. It’s possible that the story picks up later, but I found myself lacking the motivation to see it through to the end. This book might be a better fit for readers who have a stronger affinity for slow-burn fantasy with intricate world-building.
Genevieve Gornichec’s *The Weaver and the Witch Queen* is a captivating historical fantasy set in the Viking Age. The story follows Gunnhild, who’s on her way to becoming the Witch Queen of Norway, and Oddny, who’s determined to find her missing sister. Gornichec does an amazing job of bringing tenth-century Scandinavia to life, mixing historical details with mythological magic. The Viking world she creates is both harsh and enchanting, making it easy to get lost in the story.
What really stands out in this book are the characters and their relationships. The bond between Gunnhild and Oddny is beautifully written, making you root for them every step of the way. The pacing keeps you hooked, slowly building up the tension and excitement. With strong female leads, an engaging plot, and lush, descriptive writing, *The Weaver and the Witch Queen* is a must-read for anyone into historical fantasy or Norse mythology. It’s a story about courage, love, and the power of belief that you won’t want to put down.
I loved this authors first book and this one did not disappoint. This is perfect for the romantasy girlies but you get some cool historical elements as well.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for granting me free access to the advanced digital copy of this book.
The Weaver and the Witch Queen is a fantastic saga built from Norse Mythology. The writing is fantastic and the characters and their journeys are intriguing and well formed. If you liked the Witch's Heart this book doesn't disappoint .
unfortunately this book was not for me i was unable to complete it. I think it would work for some people. it was well written but just didnt keep my attention
I really loved Gornichec's first novel The Witch's Heart, so I was really hoping for another stellar retelling. The characters were complex and three-dimensional and I enjoyed the world building, although it could have been tightened up a bit. While story delivered, some of the dialog was a bit too modern for the time period and took me out of the story. I didn't like it as much as The Witch's Heart, but it was an enjoyable read.
I loved The Witch’s Heart and was thrilled to receive this as an e-arc! Genevieve’s writing and storytelling is so unique. If you like mythology and interesting fantasy reads that are different than the norm, give this one a try!
THE WEAVER AND THE WITCH QUEEN is a wonderfully rich and engrossing Viking Age historical fantasy. Genevieve Gornichec continues to weave a tale that brings the best of what historical fiction can be with the epic nature of fantasy. The writing was superb and flowed effortlessly throughout the story.
i'm beginning to think that if Gornichec wrote a user manual for a dishwasher I would obsessively read it cover to cover. I love her style of writing. its so magical and lyrical. I loved this tale and think that it was magical in so many ways. The characters were lovable, and hate-able which I find equally important. I liked the development of the story line. I did think that it kinda bogged down in a few places but nothing that made me what to set the book down at any point.
Me and another librarian had been waiting for this one! Gornichec's first book was one of our favorites and this one did not disappoint. As beautiful and poignant as the first, Gornichec's prose will leave your heart aching and your mind wishing for more more more. She's a fantastic writer and I hope that she continues writing great books.
If you like historical fiction with a bit of magic and mythology this book is right up your alley. It's nice to see such a well written book about the bonds of sisterhood both chosen and by blood.
I put off reading this one for so long because I knew it was going to cause some emotional damage. And it did but honestly it was so good that there was no other way it could play out.
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for providing me with an arc for an honest review,.
Again, an era and slice of ‘history’ that I knew next to nothing about but was utterly fascinated by. I could not put this down, devouring it in one sitting. It was so character driven - between the three women Gunnhild, Signy and Oddny and their intertwined fate. And then the men who revolve around them. It left me craving so much more. For anyone who likes epic historical fiction, this is it!
Absolutely beautiful writing and as stunning as the last one. There really is just something about Genevieve Gornichec's writing, and I am hopefully that we will get more fantasy from her in the future!
What a great addition to the historical fiction shelf! I really enjoyed this and the three women whose perspectives it contained. A compelling, hard to put down story.
Wow. I am not sure I have all the words to describe how incredible this book was. I read it in three days as I just could not stay away. Gunnhild, Oddny and Signy grew up in tenth century Norway. The three swore to always be sisters and to take care of each other. A seeminly innocent childhood oath that ends up being more sinister and drives their fates together and apart. Being Viking Norway, there is a lot of blood, magic and adventure. From beginning to end I was captivated. Definitely recommended!
Three young girls in a Viking village are linked by prophecy and by an oath to one another. They are separated and each has a different fate that leads them back to one another.
I loved every second of this book. Each girl was different in her motives and loyalties. I loved the sisterhood of magic and the way the magic manifested. There was an interesting queer twist in this one that totally gave me GOT vibes (trying not to be spoilery but it's great). The men were nuanced and layered as well, even though every second was a political jockeying for position that often led to violence. The battles were great and I think would appeal well to male readers as well. Each character has to make tough choices that force them to choose between power, loyalty and love.
Read this one if you liked The Queen Hereafter (Lady Macbethad) or Sistersong.
Thanks to Ace, Berkley Publishing Group for gifted access via Netgalley. All opinions above are my own.
Although it would be very difficult to unseat The Witch's Heart as my favorite Nordic-themed novel, this one gave me the same feel. Certainly this is a modern re-imagining of a historical figure, which keeps it fresh and engaging.