<i>Read this if you like…</i>
- Scandinavian lore
- Gods messing around with humans

<i>This may not be for you if you don't like...</i>
- Insta-love
- An unlikeable MC
- "twists" that you see coming 75 miles away

<b>Rating Breakdown</b>

Characters: ★
I did not like anyone in this book. Liking characters shouldn't be necessary, but if you're asking me to root for a character to succeed or to continue reading their story for multiple books... I need to like them a little bit. Or at least be entertained by them.
This is all so frustrating because I know I enjoy Jensen's Bridge Kingdom series. Still looking forward to reading the 3rd/4th books in that series because I LIKE the characters. A character does not need to be a good person for me to like them. But if they're gonna be a shitty person, they need to be smart or funny or SOMETHING else to make me want to read their story. I prefer messed up characters but I don't want to read about someone being a stupid impulsive jerk for multiple books.
Freya spent the whole book yelling that she wouldn't be controlled and then immediately submitting to control. She wanted peace, she wanted war, she wanted to just hump Bjorn constantly.... It was boring and exhausting.
Bjorn had an axe and daddy issues.
The women were all either angry at Freya or jealous of her. (yikes.)

Writing: ★★★
If you've read another book by this author, then you'll expect the writing style. It felt weird for a historical fantasy, though. The verbiage would be a bit formal at times but then suddenly very modern and casual. It felt disjointed and I kept saying "would these characters know/use this word, though??"

Plot: ★★
Extremely predictable. Like, I anticipated EVERY ending "twist" by the halfway mark. If I figure out a book, I want to feel smart/clever for having done so and not mad that the author thought I'd be dumb enough to not see everything telegraphed plainly.

Enjoyment: ★★
Two stars because I enjoyed the beginning of the book. Especially when Freya did what she DID. What a way to introduce her to us! But then we spent so much time in her dumb head... it took me a couple of days to get through the first 60% and five months to finish the rest.

"You're mine, Born-in-fire."

This book gripped me right from the very start.

I told myself I would only read a few chapters because I had another book I needed to finish first, but I then proceeded to binge-read this entire thing in a matter of hours.

A fierce female lead, who was honestly a little too selfless and forgiving in my opinion, Freya spends much of the book struggling to come to terms with the prophecy she finds herself ensnared by. Her only ally in this whole wretched affair is Bjorn, the son of the man forcing her to serve as his shield maiden. But the feelings between the two are far from familial. In fact, from the moment they met on the beach, before either knew the other's identity, a connection was formed between them.

The chemistry, the forbidden romance, and the world came together to form a delectable, action-packed treat of a book. I thoroughly enjoyed the story even despite the laundry list of characters I wished to bring a hammer down upon.

The only downside to having been granted the privilege of reading this ARC is now I must wait a good long while for news on the sequel.

I honestly didn’t know what to expect going into this and let me just tell you immediately, I was gripped by the first page. I love a feisty FMC paired with a hunking glory of a mountain but also soft as goo MMC. The side dramas were *chef’s kiss*. The pacing was intense but it made everything feel imminent and that was a crucial part of the story. The events in the ending chapters were coming at me from all sides and I couldn’t put the book down even if I tried. I am so glad to have gotten an ARC for this book and I cannot wait for the next in the series. The author has a new fan.

My only note is that I wish there was more character development for the MMC. I suppose that we’ll get to see more of who he really is in the next book (shout out to THAT plot twist), but I think knowing a bit more about HIM as a character would’ve made what happened more emotionally impactful. The unfolding of events had me shook, but not crushed. And I would’ve really loved to be crushed because the potential was absolutely there. Otherwise, enjoyed this read very much.

Freya is a badass, a pawn for everyone’s taking, who knew how to fight back for herself. I love a Norse Mythology/Fantasy and with this being a forbidden love? Bjorn!!! I love him. Loved their relationship development too, even their individual character development. I’m excited to see the journey continue, especially with the direction at the end. I love a twist and partially seeing some, not all, coming ~

The middle was a little slow for me, but she who prevails! Was worth it. It takes a lot of talent to write a tale like this, i could see so much of it playing as a movie in my head. Audiobook narrator is really really good. The accents

Big thank you NetGalley and to the publisher for the chance to review this book pre-release. I… wish that I had loved this 😅 It was TOO fast-paced, and honestly I didn’t feel connected to a single character. Freya got on my nerves, the love interest fell flat, it was just..eh. I am interested in try the sequel when it comes out since most of the world building is complete, but I’m not even sure if that was the problem for me. I just wish the magic made more sense & was better explained, and that’s coming from someone who’s pretty familiar with norse mythology. I really really wanted to love this, but overall, just not for me.

I really liked this! A fantasy Norse setting with a compelling female lead and a sexy love interest who can put his money where his mouth is. The sexy tension is right on the mark and the set up for the series is nicely done with Freya slowly coming into her own. The twists aren't necessarily unpredictable, but there is one good one that got me at the end. I'll read the sequel.

This book is perfect for fans of The Last Kingdom! I thoroughly enjoyed this book specially the Norse Mythology that was at its center. However, I'm bumping my rating down to a 4 star because there was too much spice for me.

When it came to this book, I found myself grappling with a mix of fascination and frustration. While the fantasy elements, particularly the incorporation of Norse gods and their bestowed powers upon mortals, proved to be the highlight of the story, the overall experience fell short of expectations and quickly became one of the most predictable reads I've read in a while.

The most compelling aspect of the novel is its exploration of Norse mythology and the interplay between gods and mortals. Jensen's world-building shines in these moments where the concept of divine powers and their impact on mortal lives provided the only engaging aspect of this book for me.

However, the allure of the fantasy elements is overshadowed by the insanely predictability of the plot and the lackluster execution of character development. From the outset, the story follows a familiar trajectory, leaving little room for surprises or genuine suspense. The anti-climactic resolution further dampens the impact of the story, leaving me feeling underwhelmed and disengaged. In addition, the lackluster cast of characters failed to evoke any sort of empathy or investment.

Despite moments of fascination, A Fate Inked in Blood felt much longer than it actually was, leaving much to be desired in this new fantasy romance series.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book.

Overall, I was entertained by A Fate Inked in Blood by Danielle L. Jensen. I would describe it as Viking romantasy. I think it will fill the void left by those readers who enjoyed Fourth Wing or ACOTAR. It did read a little slow for me in the beginning, but that could be a me problem.

I was intrigued by the Norse background and mythology that was entwined through the heart of this story. It started out well with the main character and her background that broke your heart. I think the vibe and the lore was the most interesting part. I struggled with the spice (a preference thing) and felt like it interfered with important moments. Some of the characters did not feel as developed as others. Overall I think the story concept was intriguing and I found myself wanting to know more.

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6124006078

I love Danielle L. Jensen's work and this new title is no exception. An incredible story filled with beautiful imagery and magic with strong roots in mythology. It was one of my most anticipated reads of the year and it didn't let down.

Thanks to Netgalley and Random House Publishing for this ARC. This Romantasy started off with a strong plot, and was a quick read but I found the main characters to be a bit one dimensional. Overall an engaging book though.

A Fate Inked in Blood by Danielle L. Jensen is a Norse-inspired romantasy that has forced proximity and meddling gods.

This story follows Freya, a shield maiden who has been blessed by the gods. She is part of a prophecy that will unite the lands and is used by a Jarl who only sees how she can benefit him. The Jarl forces his son, Bjorn, to watch over and protect Freya. They are constantly facing dangers and their growing attraction to each other.

I loved the character growth from Freya. Watching the woman from the beginning of the story become so strong and confident was good. Freya is caring, self-sacrificing, and strong-willed. Bjorn was a fantastic character that was passionate, strong, and vengeful. His backstory added an element to the plot and character depth.

The plot didn’t feel completely sequenced. It jumped around a bit and didn’t seem to flow as well as it could have. Things move quickly at the beginning but then drag a little bit in the middle.

I loved the setting and the Viking/Norse mythology. The setting was descriptive and made you feel like you were alongside the characters on their journey.

I think overall this is a great start of a series and a unique story. I am excited to read the next book! If you are in the mood for a fantasy romance, Vikings, meddling gods, and action/battles this book is for you!

Thank you, NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for granting me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.

This is by far my favorite of her books! The magic system in this book was totally new, but easily understood. The storyline was compelling, the romance was the slowest of burns, and it ended on a compelling cliffhanger. I know this book hasn’t even released yet, but I need the next one now 🤣 Highly recommend!

Posting on Instagram feed 2/21, stories 2/20 & saved to arc highlight and 5 star reads highlight

I think I overhyped this book too much before starting because in the beginning I was like WHAT IS HAPPENING WHY IS SHE *spoiler* spoiler* spoiler* but after I got over that shock I really enjoyed this book. Definitely for the romantasy and mythology lovers!

Freya won me over immediately and will definitely be everyone’s favorite FMC soon! And the love interest!! I won’t say much because spoilers but I am officially obsessed with him.

Overall I really enjoyed this book and as always love Danielle’s writing. I hope she considers expanding this world because wow it’s intense and deserves more than a duology. Lastly I am in deep pain because that cliffhanger HURT.

Thank you so much Net Galley and Del Ray for an advanced copy!

Final Rating: 3.5

I'm always excited to read Viking inspired fantasy stories! The first third of this really captured my attention and drew me into the story, with an interesting magic system and world building. And Freya the main character seemed tough and destined for great things! I really felt such sympathy for her and what she went through in her first marriage, then being forced into an alliance with a fanatic jarl who thinks he's meant to be king by controling Freya's fate. However where things went south for me is with Freya herself. She's always going on about how those with god blood control their own destinies and aren't bound by fate, yet she seems content to be used. She also made a lot of very impulsive and thoughtless decisions and I was so frustrated with her just letting things happen to her. Her motivations to stay with the jarl and allow him to use her just were not compelling enough. I did like Bjorn, although I couldn't for the life of me figure out what he saw in Freya that made him fall in love with her, she honestly treats him like crap. I also saw the plot twist towards the end coming from a mile away. I do think I'll try the sequel when it comes out because I feel like good things are to come, but this particular book did nothing new for me. Good, but wasn't holy-shit-I-need-more-now good. I know so many people are going to love this one though!

Thank you to Random House Publishing and Danielle Jensen for my eARC copy via NetGalley!

Freya is trapped in her loveless and abusive marriage and is stuck gutting fish all day when all she wants is to be a warrior. That is all about to change however, because her husband sold her to their region's jarl (leader) because he knew something about her she thought she had kept hidden; she was given a drop of a god's blood at her conception and is a Shield Maiden with the ability to shield off any attack. The jarl wishes to use her to fulfill a prophesy be believes spoke into his own destiny - becoming King of their region, Skaland, by force. The jarl believes his son Bjorn's fate is linked to Freya, and commands he does everything in his power to keep her safe. As Freya trains with Bjorn to increase her strength and prowess on the battlefield, questions begin to arise; is the jarl correct that the prophesy was about himself? Can Freya ignore the growing feelings between herself and Bjorn? Are those surrounding Freya who they say they are, can she trust anyone?

Wow. I truly believe this is going to be one of the next viral Romantasy series. I really don't think I have ever had a novel, especially a fantasy with intense world building, suck me in so quickly. Even at the beginning of the story I couldn't put it down, and stayed up way too late trying to just stay in the world a little longer. Jensen managed to create an entire (easily understandable) world <i>very</i> quickly, and took of running with the plot development right from the start. The characters were well rounded, their development over time was solid, and the twists and turns had me questioning everything and everyone all throughout my reading. I also think this book would stand up well on it's own even if it didn't have the romance, which I think a lot of people are looking for.

<spoiler>From the beginning, I felt there was more than meets the eye with Bjorn. He obviously fell immediately in love with Freya, and they seem to be a fated-mates pair. Their chemistry is palpable, and the slow burn of their romance was delightful. I felt there were so many good foreshadow moments: the blood oath allowing for anyone in the jarl's line to have knowledge of the illegitimacy of the marriage (be that intentional wording), Bjorn questioning Freya's theory on who was arranging her capture, the shoes not being hers when they were in the cave (and the sound of the rocks being displaced when they were resting while in the cave), etc. These moments made me feel more engaged in the story, desperate to not miss anything mentioned in passing that would point to later plot points. </i>

I know it's a good book when I'm sad it's over, but with this I am also sad I'm reading it so early, knowing it's going to be a while before the next one comes out. It sounds so silly but that's legitimately how I felt once I finished it. I will recommend this book to anyone I come across, whether they want to start with fantasy romance or are already avid fans of the genre. I also think it will be a popular book among non-fantasy romance readers as well, because though the romance is in there, it's not the main point of the story. Can't wait for the next one, and want to say thanks again for the opportunity to read it prior to its release!

I had high expectations of Danielle L. Jensen's newest and this definitely lived up to them!! Freya's journey to find her own power after years of being subjected to the whims of her family and a crappy husband is so powerful. I loved that Freya is strong, outspoken, comfortably with her sexuality, and of course fiery woman. The instant chemistry and banter between Freya and Bjorn is undeniable and my only gripe is how long we were made to wait to see an explosion of the chemistry (but ok fine, the wait was worth it). I cannot wait for the next book in this series, I am going to instantly devour it just like I did A Fate Inked in Blood!

A Fate Inked in Blood, by Danielle L. Jensen, is the first installment in the authors' Saga of the Unfated duology. This story takes place in an alternative Norse-inspired Fantasy world featuring Freya, a girl touched by Gods, as the main character. Bound in an unwanted marriage, Freya spends her days gutting fish, but dreams of becoming a warrior. And of putting an axe in her boorish husband’s back. Freya's dreams abruptly become reality when her husband betrays her to the region's jarl, landing her in a fight to the death against his son, Bjorn.

To survive, Freya is forced to reveal her deepest secret: She possesses a drop of a goddess's blood, which makes her a shield maiden with magic capable of repelling any attack. It was foretold such magic would unite the fractured nation of Skaland beneath the one who controls the shield maiden’s fate. Believing he's destined to rule Skaland as king, the fanatical jarl binds Freya with a blood oath and orders Bjorn to protect her from their enemies.

Bjorn, who was taken to Nordeland when he was a boy, is also touched by a God which allows him to hold the blood axe of Tye. With war inevitable with King Harald of Nordeland, Freya quickly becomes embattled in a tug of war to see who controls her, or who can kill her before she can pick a side. Desperate to prove her strength, Freya must train to fight and learn to control her magic, all while facing perilous tests set by the gods. The greatest test of all, however, may be resisting her forbidden attraction to Bjorn.

If Freya succumbs to her lust for the charming and fierce warrior, she risks not only her own destiny but the fate of all the people she swore to protect. As the story unfolds, there is a noticeable sense of predictability that creeps in. It becomes apparent that the plot follows a familiar path, and astute readers may anticipate some of the twists and turns. When the betrayal occurs at the end, if you pay attention throughout the story, it isn't such a shocking thing. Luckily, this is only a 2 book series so I will be patiently waiting for the finale.

*Thoughts* Overall, this is a pretty entertaining book. There's a good amount of traveling, prophecies, magic, gods, norse mythology and tension. But the sexual undertone, which leads to more and more sex, could have been dwindled down to under 20 pages. Freya isn't a bad character. She's been told she needs to hide who she is and then is shoved into a battle she has no control over. While Freyja is resourceful and loyal and will go to any lengths to protect those she cares about, Bjorn is more of an enigmatic rogue. This is one of the few books where the author or publisher hasn't shoved diversity for the sake of diversity.

"A Fate Inked in Blood" is the first in a new series by Danielle L. Jensen that promises to be as memorable as her last. Set in a Norse-inspired world where powerful characters and magic fight for dominance, this novel delivers a gripping story that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.

Once again, Jensen masterfully delivers diverse characters, each with complex motivations and hidden agendas. The main character, Freya, has been blessed with a gift she has spent her entire life hiding; now, her future and that of her people are at risk in a continually changing world. With skillful prose and hold-onto-your-seat pacing, Jensen weaves a tale of magic, betrayal and unexpected love that draws readers in.

This book brings well-drawn characters, intricate world-building and a spellbinding plot; Jensen continues to deliver novels worth reading.