A Fate Inked in Blood

Content warnings: abusive marriage, betrayal, war, death, murder

Freya is gifted powers by the goddess Hlin, which makes her a prize for any jarl.

Freya is a fishwife whose cruel husband uses his god-given power over sea creatures for his own ambition. Freya longs to be a warrior instead of serving such an odious man. But Freya's family has forced her to keep a secret her entire life -- that she's been gifted powers by the goddess Hlin.

When Freya is forced to reveal her secret to save her life, the revelation changes her course in unimaginable ways. Freya is forced into the service of a jarl who wants to become king, guarded night and day by his son and heir Bjorn. Bjorn's gift is from the god Tyr; he enters battle wielding an axe made of fire. Freya begins to train as a warrior, living the life she wished for while chafing at being forced to do what others command.

Spending so much time with Bjorn leads Freya to want what she can't have, and she feels even more stifled by the circumstances of her existence. As word of Freya's power travels across Skaland and beyond, she begins to realize that her people's enemies will do whatever it takes to possess her power.

This makes for a novel with twists and turns that is never slow or boring. All the reader can do is strap in and enjoy the ride. Recommended for readers who enjoy fantasy, fast-paced action, and historical settings who won't shy away at a bit of romance.

Series: Saga of the Unfated, #1

Publisher: Del Rey

Length: 432 pages

Release Date: February 27, 2024

I received an electronic galley copy of this title from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.