"The Scrolls of Time" by Joss Walker is a breath-taking and emotionally charged conclusion to the Jayne Thorne series, delivering a high-stakes, epic finale that blends magic, mythology, and heart-wrenching choices. This instalment sees CIA Librarian Jayne Thorne facing her greatest challenge yet: a battle against Odin, a god who has brought the magical world to its knees. The stakes are higher than ever, and Jayne’s journey is one of sacrifice, resilience, and transformation.

The novel picks up in the aftermath of Odin’s devastating victory, with the magical world in ruins. Libraries, the guardians of knowledge and magic, are burning, and the TCO (the organization Jayne once trusted) is in shambles. Jayne, now isolated and grieving the loss of her loved ones, must confront the overwhelming power of Odin and his army of Wraiths. Her only hope lies in the World Tree, a mythical realm where the Norns—the weavers of destiny—reside. With her loyal dragon companion, Hayden, Jayne embarks on a perilous journey to seek the Time Totem, a power that could unravel time itself and give her a chance to rewrite the catastrophic events unfolding around her.

Walker masterfully weaves together elements of Norse mythology, high fantasy, and modern-day intrigue, creating a richly layered narrative that is both imaginative and deeply emotional. The trials Jayne faces within the World Tree are not only physical but also psychological, forcing her to confront her deepest fears, regrets, and desires. The Norns’ challenges are designed to break her, but Jayne’s determination and growth as a character shine through, making her a truly compelling heroine.

The novel’s exploration of time, destiny, and the cost of power adds a philosophical depth to the story. Jayne’s ultimate choice—whether to wield the Time Totem and risk the consequences of altering time—is a poignant reflection of the series’ central themes: the weight of responsibility, the price of heroism, and the complexity of love and loss. The cosmic convergence that binds the worlds of magic and mortality serves as a fitting backdrop for this climactic showdown, raising the tension to its peak.

"The Scrolls of Time" is a triumph of storytelling, combining fast-paced action, intricate world-building, and deeply human emotions. Joss Walker delivers a satisfying and thought-provoking conclusion to Jayne Thorne’s journey, leaving readers both exhilarated and reflective. This final instalment cements the series as a standout in the urban fantasy genre, offering a powerful reminder that sometimes, defeating a god requires becoming something more than human.

Review of Advance Reader Copy eBook

As Odin Allfather continues his battle, gaining more power over the Rogues and plunging them into the Torrent, he unleashes his Wraiths to swoop down on the people. His determination to rule once more seems on the verge of reaching success; his malevolent desires seemingly within his reach.

But Jayne Thorne is contemplating time travel. Can she find the way to defeat Odin Allfather and save the magic realm? Or are they all doomed?

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In this, the sixth and final book in the series, CIA Librarian Jayne Thorne faces Odin Allfather in a final showdown. The magic world is all but destroyed; grimoires have become ashes, the Torrent Control Organization has been shattered.

And Jayne is determined to find a way to defeat Odin Allfather and restore the magical realm.

Strong world-building, believable characters, and a captivating story filled with magic and adventure all work together to pull the reader into the telling of the tale from the outset. With all the expected characters in place and sufficient backstory for those new to the series, readers are sure to find themselves turning pages as fast as possible as Jayne’s adventure keeps them spellbound.

This final chapter in the series, like the earlier works, brings a sharp focus on magic, friendship, and love to the unfolding story. Readers who enjoy the fantasy realm will find much to appreciate in this unputdownable epic fantasy tale.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this eBook from Two Tales Press / Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) Members’ titles and NetGalley