Oh wow I loved this book. It gave fourth wing with a bit of spice and a bit of Vikings. I love Norse inspired books always so full of action and adventure. I would quite literally recommend this to anyone and I can’t wait to buy a physical copy. Freya is awesome

Thank you to Random House for granting me access to A Fate Inked in Blood as an arc! Unfortunately, I will not be able to give this title a proper rating, as I essentially dnf'd/skimmed to the end. (Although there is a 1 star rating for Netgalley/Goodreads purposes)

I'm not sure if my disinterest comes from a place of being in a pre-reading slump or maybe just not being in the mood for this flavor of fantasy romance, but something about this book did not catch my interest. I am really surprised, as I found myself really enjoying The Bridge Kingdom; this book almost feels like a step down. I felt disconnected from the characters and the plot, and additionally felt like some of the "romance"/attraction came completely out of the blue. I started to feel like I was "pushing through it" by the 50% mark, and ended up just skimming to the end. Overall, I just feel like I could not get invested into the plot, and could not even convince myself to finish skimming to the end, as I totally lost interest.

I think that other people might still enjoy this book, and that's totally okay! I just do not see myself picking this back up or following through with the rest of the series. If you enjoyed The Bridge Kingdom, I recommend separating the two, as this felt like a completely different reading experience; and yes, of course I know they are completely different books/series, but I think I had my expectations set a bit higher than what I observed. Again, I could just be experience the Mood Reader Curse, so if you end up picking this up, I hope you enjoy it a little bit more!

An absolutely delightful read. I loved the mythos of it. The romance is incredible--the pull is there from the beginning but the author teases us with a fantastic slow burn. I can't wait to read the next one!

Oh my gosh. I DEVOURED this. A Fate Inked in Blood sucked me in, and it's been all I can think about. Freya is such a badass FMC, Bjorn is such a swoony MMC, and their banter had me grinning like an idiot. The world building, the characters, the tension and pining, THE ENDING. My mind is blown, Danielle Jensen is so good at what she does. I'm usually very quick to guess at what is happening but this had me questioning what was really going on and who was behind the deception the entire time. I need book 2 ASAP! Thank you so much to NetGalley for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Random House Publishing for this ARC.
I was extremely captivated by the cover art for this book, and grew interested after reading the premise, I’m a sucker for Norse fantasy/romance, so this was right up my alley. The storyline is mysterious and magical, full of battle and blood. Love and lust. Betrayal and loss.
From the first page to the last, I was fully invested with Freya’s story. She must choose which path to follow as she is a child of the gods, revealed as the long-awaited shield maiden of legend. She is torn between choosing her own path and following the prophecy she is at the heart of. She must also fight her feelings for the strong and handsome Bjorn, who has been tasked with training and protecting her by his jarl father.
I’m really pleased with the characters and the storyline. I found it a little more difficult to predict than I originally thought which made for an awesome reading experience. I can’t wait to get my hand on the physical copy, and to see what she has in store for book two in the future,

My review of A Fate Inked in Blood by Danielle L. Jensen ♡︎

A Fate Inked in Blood is the first book in tbe series of a Norse mythology inspired romantasy. This book is perfect for those that love action, suspense, and a little sprinkle of romance all in one!

When we first meet our FMC Freya, she is hiding a deadly secret: she is a shield maiden blessed by the gods that is prophesied to unite a nation under a king who will do anything to have power.

Some things I loved:

🤍 the banter between Freya and Bjorn was sizzling

🤍 Freya is a very strong fmc

🤍 magical powers for those blessed by the Gods

🤍 heart breaking betrayal that I, for one did not see coming👀. It smacked me in the face once I realized what was happening

🤍 forbidden romance


Ratings:

★︎★︎★★★ / ➎︎

🌶🌶🌶/ ➎︎

I had the opportunity to read an advanced reader’s e-proof of A Fate Inked in Blood by Danielle L. Jensen courtesy of Random House Publishing Group via NetGalley. All opinions above are my own.

DLJ did it again. I was hooked from chapter 1 and begging for more at the end. Freya is an amazing FMC & the Norse mythology is exciting. I loved the unique magic system & as usual the spice was perfect.
The only thing I need from this book is a pronunciation guide for names and cities in the beginning.
I already pre-ordered a hardback copy and cannot wait until the next book in the series.

This doesn't come out until February, but I couldn't keep myself from holding out on reading this.

There was so much about this to love. First of all the start of this book just completely grips you. I love the fact that DLJ included that Freya is in an abusive marriage at the start of the story and we get to see this depicted. I don't think I have ever read that before in a fantasy romance and it added a lot of perspective to her character early on. Also very quickly we get a feel for what kind of person she is and how protective of her family she is, to her own detriment.

I was instantly interested in Bjorn and that second scene with him just had my jaw on the floor. The whole thing was perfection and my heart was genuinely racing trying to figure out what was going to happen because I hadn't read the synopsis, which I totally recommend not reading and going in blind. All you need to know is that this is a fantasy romance about Vikings- let the rest surprise you.

There were so many interesting aspects of the story and the world building and I was trying to unravel things in my head throughout the story which I loved. Some of my guesses ended up being correct, but it did not play out how I expected.

The romance was so good, Bjorn's transition from reluctant protector to fierce defender was chef's kiss. It delivered on the tension and buildup to the steam.

The only thing that frustrated me was how intensely protective Freya was of her family that did not deserve it. But honestly it made so much sense with her character that I couldn't even be mad. Sure I wanted to smack her, but she's the shield maiden....so duh she's gonna be protective.

If you are dying to read this or even slightly interested and you haven't already picked up the Dark Shores series or the Bridge Kingdom series, seriously what are you doing with your life?

Thanks SO MUCH to Netgalley and the publisher for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

i really like the use of norse myhtology in this book bc you really dont swe that in fatnasy nowadays. i think this book set up the next one perfectly, however, there were a few moments in the middle that felt stale but things did really wrap up well in the end. the plot twist was also very well set up, i cant wait for the second book

I received an ARC of this book and am writing my review of my own volition and without compensation.

I first fell in love with Danielle Jensen's work three years ago when I was swept away by Bridge Kingdom. What I love about her style is her ability to lull the reader into a false sense of "I know what's going to happen" but then completely pulls the rug out from under you in the most heart-wrenchingly perfect way.

Synopsis (no spoilers)
Freya has a drop of the God Hlin's blood in her, making her unfated. Sought after by the most powerful jarls in the land, Freya has never been mistress of her own fate. But when the opportunities arise for her to choose her own destiny, she must make impossible choices and even then, faces unfathomable betrayals.

For the first hundred pages or so of A Fate Inked in Blood, I thought I was reading a version of the show Vikings and honestly, I was not mad about it. I love that show. But I was waiting for things to get that Jensen Twist. And I waited, and I waited. But by golly when it hit it hit HARD and it hit FAST. I could not turn the pages fast enough and my heart was racing nearly as fast as my eyes were! This book has everything I expect from Danielle Jensen, wrapped up in a perfect, Norse-theme package. Bloody, fierce, epic, heart-pounding, bodice-ripping excellence. Cannot wait for the rest of this series!

I usually don't take the time to review books, only give stars but OMG, this book! I should have started on weekend, because I could NOT PUT IT down! Another amazing story by Danielle L. Jenson! I really thought I had the ending all figured out, but bam! twists and turns! I started to panic when I only had 10 pages left. Amazingly written and love the use of Norse mythology/history. I loved (and hated!) the characters and the snarky, spicy banter between Freya and Bjorn was just *chef's kiss*.

I don't think the sequel can be released soon enough!

this is a Viking fantasy romance book about freya who has gods blood in her and has been keeping it a secret. Her life changes when she is discovered by a jarl and his son.

this is the first danielle L. Jensen book I’ve read and I LOVED it! I finished two days ago and i’m still thinking about it when i’m trying to read other books. I don’t know how I’m going to wait till February to get a copy of it.😭 Freya did annoy me at times but overall I still enjoyed her character. Bjorn is a good character as well. I loved their whole dynamic and their banter. He was always making sure freya was okay.😭 The book was a little predictable but the predictably of it didn’t ruin the book for me!

thank you to Ballantine books and NetGalley for sending me an arc of this book in exchange for a honest review.

All Freya ever dreamed of was wielding a sword and being a warrior. Unfortunately, Freya was forced into a marriage of convenience for her family a year ago to a cruel man who was blessed by the gods. But everything changes for Freya when she comes across a mysterious man. The events that happen after?! Wow! secrets, plot twists, fate, magic…

I am a huge fan of Danielle L Jensen. I had very high expectations for A Fate Inked in Blood and she met, nope, exceeded every single one of my expectations! I did not know that I needed a viking romance in my life but I am so glad I got it. I love romantasy books and this is romantasy with vikings, morally grey characters, badass FMC, and some of the BEST witty banter. The personalities of the two main characters really shine through the author’s writing and make the witty banter so much better. On more than one occasion I laughed out loud while reading.

Do not walk, run to preorder this book, especially with that gorgeous first edition!! If you are not already a fan of Danielle L Jensen A Fate Inked in blood will force you to be one.



Some of my favorite quotes:

✨ “You aim as well with words as you do with fish, woman.”

✨” My fate is my own to weave.”

✨”This is why I like you, Freya. You’ve got a brain between your ears and a saucy tongue to voice the thoughts within it.”

"A Fate Inked in Blood" by Danielle L. Jensen is a captivating and dynamic Norse-inspired fantasy romance that weaves together themes of power, destiny, and forbidden love. With its immersive world-building and engaging characters, this book offers an enthralling reading experience that fans of both fantasy and romance will appreciate.

Set in a world where gods and magic play a significant role, the story follows Freya, a shield maiden with a secret—she possesses the blood of a goddess, granting her powerful magic and the potential to unite a fractured nation. Freya's journey from a fish-gutting wife to a skilled warrior with magical abilities is filled with challenges, trials, and a growing desire for Bjorn, the son of the ruthless jarl who betrays her.

The plot is intricately crafted, blending action, intrigue, and romance seamlessly. As Freya is thrust into a fight for her life and her destiny, she must navigate complex political dynamics, master her magic, and resist the allure of forbidden love. The tension between Freya and Bjorn adds depth to the story, and their chemistry is palpable, making their interactions both intense and captivating.

Jensen's prose is descriptive and evocative, vividly bringing the Norse-inspired world to life. The author's attention to detail, from the settings to the cultural aspects, enhances the reading experience, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the story.

The characters are multi-dimensional and well-developed, each with their own motivations and secrets. Freya's determination, growth, and vulnerability make her a relatable and compelling protagonist. Bjorn, too, is a complex character with layers that gradually unfold, adding depth to his relationship with Freya.

The book also delves into themes of power and control, as well as the struggle between fulfilling personal desires and adhering to one's responsibilities. These themes add depth and complexity to the characters' decisions and actions.

Overall, "A Fate Inked in Blood" is a spellbinding fantasy romance that skillfully combines elements of Norse mythology, magic, action, and passionate romance. Danielle L. Jensen's storytelling prowess shines through as she crafts a rich and engaging narrative that keeps readers invested from beginning to end. Fans of fantasy and romance genres will find this book to be a thrilling and satisfying read.

Thank you to the publisher for giving me this ARC in exchange for an honest review!!!

A Viking story immersed in mythology, fantasy, magic, and betrayal, Feyre is a fisherman’s wife in a small town when she discovers she contains the power of a God and is fated to make a man king. She is “born of fire” and taken away to fulfill her destiny by the jarl in charge of her brother’s war band and the beautiful son of the jarl, who holds the power of Tyr’s flame, is assigned to be her protector. Little does she know her way is fraught with peril, betrayal, and death.

***Spoiler ahead***

I LOVED this!!! I’m always a sucker for Viking stories and mythology. I loved how the author translated the mythology into the magic system, how Freya wasn’t a girl to just lay down and take it, and the slow burn was soooooo good!!! There were a few things that kept it from being 5 stars for me, mostly Freya being so wishy-washy with her decisions. I hated how she started out very altruistic and wanting to defend those less fortunate or weaker, but then turned into this person of rage that just wanted to burn everything down. I understand that is part of her character arc as she is born of 2 gods, but it still was a bit of whiplash for me. I did see one of the twists coming at the end, mainly Bjorn being the one that betrayed her the most, but there was definitely many I didn’t see coming and that totally threw me!! I loved Bjorn and Freya together! I loved their slow burn, the little touches, the stolen moments, and I’m so so so pissed that she finally got him just in time to find out what he did to betray her. I’m super excited for the next one to come and I cannot wait to see what happens in the series!!! 4.5/5 stars for me!

3.5 stars! This was my first book by Danielle Jensen and I definitely enjoyed much of the book. I liked Freya and Bjorn’s relationship and development. They were slow burn and I liked how protective he was of her. I’m used to fantasy books with a heavy info dumps and that wasn’t the case here. Jensen’s writing makes it very easy for the reader to get immersed in the world. I do wish we had just a bit more info about the Gods they spoke of.

This is my first Danielle Jensen book, and I absolutely loved it. Although I knew little to none about Norse mythology before this book, it was easy to keep up in this world she built inspired by it.

I loved the dialogue between all the characters, especially the banter and tension between Freya and Bjorn.

Personally I felt like the story was slow up until the last third of the book, but didn’t feel too rushed also. I was kept on my toes a good chunk of the book. I suspected some kind of plot twist but as always, I’m surprised when it happened. I’m very much looking forward to the duology!

I loved the Bridge Kingdom series, so when I saw Danielle Jensen had a new book in a different series coming out, I knew it was an insta-read for me.

The story revolves around Freya and a world heavy on Norse mythology (but not too heavy to follow), with a bit more fantasy/magic thrown in than you'd typically find in some Vikings shows. Freya is often the one forced to sacrifice her own wants and happiness, forced under the control to the men of this world. While I felt most of the book was predictable and had guessed most of the "surprise" bits, I still thoroughly enjoyed the characters and the harsh, violent world.

I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

I have been a fan of Danielle Jensen's work since her Bridge series, and this first installment of a new series featuring Norse mythology, a brave heroine, slow-burning romance, and adventure did not disappoint.

Before this book, I've never known too much about Norse mythology (aside from Marvel movies) and I thought it was a very interesting thread throughout the book. Jensen weaves in the Scandinavian myths well, from the fate of our heroine to the type of rituals offered to their gods.

I loved watching the relationship between the heroine, Freya, and Bjorn, her protector, evolve from "would they-won't they" to "screw the consequences, we're doing this!".

With action and adventure all throughout the book, it had a great pace.

Suffice it to say, I will be on the lookout for the next book in the series.

Thank you Del Ray for a digital galley in return for my honest review.

A big thank you to NetGalley and Danielle L. Jensen for this eArc!

Firstly, Danielle has done it again in writing a book that I literally could not put down. Although I have not read many Norse-inspired books, A Fate Inked in Blood had a completely different take on the idea of fate, riddles, and godly intervention. Every time I thought the plot was headed in one direction, it completely changed for the better and always left me guessing what was going to happen next. This is one of the most exciting books I have read this year.

Aside from the plot being fantastic, Freya and Bjorn are to die for. Freya’s internal monologue felt realistic and her thoughts logical. This is ideal because sometimes main characters can feel tedious to read when the plot is experienced solely through their eyes. Furthermore, Bjorn complemented Freya’s personality without simply being an object she lusted over. I would ascribe this to the fact that Freya and Bjorn have such compelling and funny banter that I was able to fully understand their relationship on a deeper level.

If anything about the plot of these characters interests you, please read this book. You will not be disappointed!