
Each of the tribes Hessa encountered were devoted to different gods, and these gods had a big influence on what happened in the world. The most interesting part for me though was the mythologies. It's a harsh world, and the Viking influences are present throughout. Villages, towns, and different parts of the world all had their own distinct cultures and belief systems, and Hessa spends a lot of time in this novel visiting these different places as part of her quest. The world building is one of this novel's biggest strengths. The flashback scenes illustrate this side to her really well, whilst also providing useful backstory for the plot. She's a fierce warrior, but is also vulnerable at times, especially when it comes to those she feels loyal to. And despite this, she would always get right back up to start fighting again – even when she was in no fit state to do so.

I was honestly surprised by how much physical pain and trauma she went through at the beginning of this novel. Hessa is definitely a strong female character. Soon Hessa's trust in her goddess weakens, and she is thrust into a battle between the gods of the Old World and the New. It is a gruelling quest, and along the way, she discovers a harrowing truth: the gods are dying, and the High Halls of the afterlife are fading. On her journey, she encounters zealot soldiers, deceitful gods, and newly awakened demons at every turn. Her whole town is burnt to the ground while she is praying for forgiveness, and Hessa – now left alone – must find this traveller to atone for her weakness and win back her goddess' favour. That is until she is banished by her high priestess for not following her one order: to kill the traveller that visits her temple. Hessa is an Eangi: a powerful priestess of the Goddess of War. The current maximum level of fine is £1,000 for each offence.Summary: A richly imagined world full of interesting lore on deceitful gods and goddesses.


