Dragonslayer's Valkyrie:

The Legend of Sigurd and Brynhildr

Viking Dragonslayers, #1

by Jennifer Ivy Walker

A masterpiece of reimagining a Nordic folk legend.

Dragonslayer's Valkyrie: The Legend of Sigurd and Brynhildr is the debut novel in author Jennifer Ivy Walker's exciting new Viking Dragonslayers series, and is a masterful reimagining of a renowned Nordic folk legend. While retaining the bones of the ancient story, Walker's lyrical prose, attention to historic detail, and creativity make the tale her own. 

Told in the alternating points of view of the two fated lovers, the story begins with Sigurd's final trial of ability, strength, stamina, and determination before he is enrolled in the ranks of the elite Sea Wolves of his stepfather, King Alfr. His successful narrative is followed by Brynhildr's introduction and her fantastical summoning of Freyja for the goddess's confirmation of Brynhildr's future as a shieldmaiden rather than the simpering prize of a tournament victor. These wonderful openings set the stage for what's to come and define their early strengths of mind and body. 

Readers are treated to the innermost thoughts and desires of these two earnest and deserving young people, establishing their worthiness for what will become a legendary love story. The author excels at delivering meaningful thought processes and dialogue that sounds natural, authentic, and makes sense. However, the author's skills truly shine in incorporating perfectly appropriate, timely descriptions of settings, rituals, and the characters' daily lives without bogging the story down in minutiae. The research that must have been done is evident in the vivid, precise details organically blended into every scene. 

Sigurd and Brynhildr's attraction blossoms into aching longing, and their union and fulfillment are accomplished openly as part of the story, so be prepared if full disclosure makes you uncomfortable. The same care used to depict daily life or religious ceremonies is applied to revealing the pair's emotional and physical relationship. 

The plot moves at an exciting pace as the characters are introduced and the scenes are set. Sigurd's and Brynhildr's hopes, dreams, pride, and longing will become yours as events intervene between these two classic fated mates. If their story weren't legendary before, it certainly would be now. 

I recommend DRAGONSLAYER'S VALKYRIE: THE LEGEND OF SIGURD AND BRYNHILDR to readers of historical romance, historical fiction, fantasy romance, and folktale retellings. 

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Goddess Fish Promotions Book Tours.