The Songweaver’s Vow is a fantasy-style retelling of Norse legends mixed in with some Greek ones. Thank you, storybundle, for including this one by Laura van Arendonk Baugh. Yes, you have heard of her: I’ve raved about her short stories in Rhonda Parrish’s anthologies.

The Songweaver’s Vow

by Laura van Arendonk Baugh

When Euthalia’s father trades her to Viking raiders, her best hope is to be made a wife instead of a slave. She gets her wish – sort of – when she is sacrificed as a bride to a god.

Her inhuman husband seems kind, but he visits only in the dark of night and will not allow her to look upon him. By day Euthalia becomes known as a storyteller, spinning ancient Greek tales to entertain Asgard’s gods and monsters.

When one of her stories precipitates a god’s murder and horrific retribution, Euthalia discovers there is a monster in her bed as well. Alone in a hostile Asgard, Euthalia must ally with a spiteful goddess to sway Odin himself before bloody tragedy opens Ragnarok, the prophesied end of the world. (Goodreads)

My Review

I didn’t know what to expect as I hadn’t read the blurb. What I found was a wonderful mediaeval opening (following hard on my reading of 1066), which swiftly developed into a legendary story.

The Songweaver’s Vow is probably not to look on her husband by daylight. Shades of Beauty and the Beast, then. Yes, but which came first? Vadir’s enchantment may be in Norse legend. I’m no expert on them, but I more or less recognise all the main characters and settings. Having the Songweaver entertain them with the tales from Greek myth is masterful. I love these myths and legends when told well, and Laura van Arendonk Baugh is nothing but a brilliant writer.

Fast-paced, beautifully described, with a total sense of being there… I was totally gripped from the first page, and finished it it two longish sittings.

Note to self: buy more of her books!

Book Review | The Songweaver’s Vow
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