I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I remember really liking the first book of this series, so I was pretty excited when I finally got my hands on this sequel. Then it took me a very long time to finally carve time out to read this. It probably doesn't help that I totally forgot that I had the eARC until recently.

So, this was an interesting book. Sure, our main girl is going through some things. She's just trying to figure out her life, and she's juggling a lot of things. For example, her relationship, her horses, royalty, and trying to make this kingdom a better place. Sure, war is on everyone's mind, and Loki is being chaotic behind the scenes.

From the very first moment, I knew we couldn't truly trust the Queen (and her aunt). Something just felt off, and I wanted to figure out why. Eventually we see little pieces of her true self, and then I started to figure things out. I had a feeling she was behind certain things and probably thought the same things, like her evil mother. Maybe she wanted to use Sigrid differently, but I didn't care. It didn't seem like Sigrid did either.

Other than that, a lot happened throughout this book, but at the same time, it felt like nothing was really happening. Things felt chaotic, which makes sense with Loki being involved behind the scenes. With the little cliffhanger, I can only imagine what the next book will be about. Can we trust the night elves? Do we think she will be able to pull off this plan for more peaceful kingdoms? No idea; I guess I'll dive into the next book whenever I can to figure that all out.

This picks up right where the first one left off. I think I liked this one better than the first book. I will be reading the next one.

Sigrid’s journey as a Valkyrie and a princess is filled with challenges. She’s still an outsider, her relationship with Mariam is strained, and her bond with Sleipnir tempts her toward darkness. Her first mission puts her in direct conflict with the Night Elves and their sinister king, while Loki stirs chaos in the Nine Worlds. The battle for Vanaheim is intense, forcing Sigrid to confront her destiny. The world-building is immersive, the character development is strong, and the story’s tension keeps you hooked. A gripping sequel that explores identity, power, and choice, I can’t wait to see how book three unfolds!

This book picks up right where the first book left off. Sigrids dream of being a Valkyrie is finally playing out and we follow her has she grows into her new roles and relationships.

This was a fantastic continuation to the series, I’m loving the Norse aspects and the world that Warner has created. I found I was definitely more emotionally invested in the story and the characters and found myself unable to step away from the book to do much of anything else. I’m glad I already have book 3 waiting because the cliff hanger on this hits you like a punch in the gut.

Wow! I absolutely loved this book. Amazing characters and wonderful plot. Very beautifully written and easy to read.

I loved absolutely everything in this book. Their journey continues and it’s even more interesting and dangerous. All of the twists and turns had me gasping.

Overall I loved this book very much. If you’re looking for a FF, YA, sapphic fantasy then you’re going to love it.

This is the second installment in The Helheim Prophesy series. It picks back up where The Valkyrie's Daughter left off, with Sigrid joining the junior valkyries on a mission into the Night Elves territory of Svartalf to find Ratatosk. When she gets back, she is encouraged to take her place as the princess of Vanaheim, but something is still not right in her world, and it seems like Loki is up to his tricks again. The Eye has shown a new vision, and the elves are on the warpath to claim all of Vanaheim in their conquest for power over Yggdrasil.

Sigrid, Miriam, Fisk, and the valkyries are back in action, fighting a new battle. The stable crew, including Peter, Roland, Aesa, Hestur, and Sleipnir, also do their parts to help defend Vanaheim. We see Sigrid's Aunt Kaia take part in much of this story, and some other new seer and sorcerer characters also join in the plot.

There is quite a lot of action action, and most of the plot centers around the battle between the valkyries and Night Elves. There are still some strained family dynamics as part of the plot. The ending leaves off with the expectation that the story will pick up again in book three and finish the epic trilogy.

The Valkyrie’s Shadow by Tiana Warner is an absolute must-read for anyone who loves epic fantasy, complex characters, and a world brimming with myth and magic. From the first page, I was hooked by the stunning world-building and the depth of the characters. Astrid, along with her fellow Valkyries, forms a bond that’s both fierce and tender, and the plot is full of twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat.

What really stood out was the way the author weaves Norse mythology into the story, creating a rich backdrop for Astrid's journey. The balance of action, emotional depth, and romance was perfectly done. It’s the kind of book that leaves you craving more, and I’m eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series. If you love strong heroines, powerful bonds, and a world that feels as real as it is magical, The Valkyrie’s Shadow is a thrilling ride you won’t want to end!

Tiana Warner’s “The Valkyrie’s Shadow” is a captivating and thrilling sequel that masterfully deepens the world and characters introduced in its predecessor. With its rich Norse mythology, high-stakes adventure, and emotionally charged storytelling, this book is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy and mythological retellings.

The pacing is superb, blending action-packed battles with moments of introspection and emotional growth. Each chapter builds momentum, keeping readers hooked while allowing for poignant character development and meaningful world-building.

The protagonist is a standout, with her courage and vulnerability making her both relatable and inspiring. Her internal struggles and external challenges are portrayed with depth, and her relationships—with allies, enemies, and herself—are beautifully complex. Warner skillfully balances moments of triumph and heartache, ensuring the emotional stakes remain high throughout the story.

The world-building in “The Valkyrie’s Shadow” is breathtaking. Warner expands on the vibrant and perilous realms of Norse mythology, immersing readers in a setting that feels alive with history, magic, and danger. The attention to detail is impeccable, from the intricacies of Valkyrie life to the vivid depictions of otherworldly landscapes.

Tiana Warner delivers a tale that is both epic and deeply personal, exploring themes of loyalty, identity, and the cost of power. “The Valkyrie’s Shadow” solidifies her place as a masterful storyteller, leaving readers eagerly anticipating what’s to come. This is a must-read for fans of mythological fantasy, compelling characters, and unforgettable adventures. Highly recommended!

Story picks up right where it left off. Made it easier to follow this journey. You follow the MFC on her journey to rescue her friends and face her feelings for Mariam. There’s plenty of build up as she goes forward so you have romance but you also have a story as well.

I love that this book start off where the other left off. Sigrid continued to have good character development through the second installment. There was a lot that was going on and a get there were some pacing issues but overall was an enjoyable read.

I think I enjoyed this one more than the first! I was so entertained, it was well-written, and overall really enjoyable.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

This enchanting sequel takes the captivating world of Norse mythology and deepens it in all the right ways! Tiana Warner’s The Valkyrie’s Shadow continues the story with rich character development, showcasing themes of love, sacrifice, and the struggle for identity. The bond between the protagonists is beautifully explored, perfectly embodying the “enemies to lovers” trope that keeps the tension high and the stakes even higher.

Warner’s writing is vivid and immersive, making the battles and emotional moments come alive on the page. The plot twists are expertly woven into the narrative, keeping me engaged as secrets unfold and alliances shift. The journey of self-discovery for both main characters is both compelling and relatable, and I found myself rooting for them every step of the way.

Overall, The Valkyrie’s Shadow is a powerful continuation that blends romance and adventure seamlessly. It left me eagerly anticipating what comes next in this enthralling series!

I sadly didn‘t like this. I struggled through the first and was hoping it‘ll get better but it didn’t.
The title is what drew me in if I‘m honest and it sounded fun but it just wasn’t for me. My reading taste has changed a lot lately as well but I can‘t say if I would have liked it before or not.

I really enjoyed this followup to Valkyrie's Daughter which picked up right where the first left us! Sigrid is off on another page turning adventure while her feelings grow for Mariam!

I would recommend reading this series in order. I read this book first and while I was able to follow the story, I think I would have enjoyed the story even more if read in order. I listen to the audiobook and enjoyed the narration. Sigrid has to navigate going from a stable hand/junior valkyrie to being a princess and valkyrie in this book. She makes some poor choices and learns some hard lessons in this one. I thought her relationship with Mariam is a bright spot throughout the book for me.

I was hesitant going into the sequel but I was so happily surprised that I enjoyed this. Maybe even more then the first book.

It did give me a feeling that maybe there will be a third book. Things didn’t seem wrapped up at least not all of it.

I loved the development of the romance, it wasn’t all up in your face, it was subtle. It also felt like it might not have been necessary but it was enjoyable.

Thank you to Netgally, the publishers, and Tiana Warner

When I requested this book I was unaware that it was apart of a series, one that requires you to read the previous books for this one to make sense. I am unable to read all the previous books along with this one before the publish date. Therefore, I will rate this a fair 3/5 stars and will adjust the rating and review when I am able to read all the books in the series along with this one.

The Valkyrie's Shadow continues in the same vein as the first book and just makes fantasy funny and a little slapstick than your normal high fantasy novel. I really like Sigrid's development in this one and all she has to go through for her first official mission. Recommend this if you like fantasy with humor that doesn't take itself too seriously but is still high stakes...and of course sapphic!

The continuation of this series has made me incredibly happy. This book basically picks up right where the first one ends, and I felt like I never even left. We jumped right into the action and heart of the mythology.

The character building continues to grow and expand. The way Sigrid just grows and blooms is so evident. And how the others get the same chance at romance sprinkled here and there, on top of everything else makes it better.

This was. fantastic read, This series keeps getting better and better