Ash’s review of Valkyrie Rising by Ingrid Paulson
Young Adult Paranormal published by HarperTeen 09 Oct 12
I haven’t read too many books featuring Valkyries, and none of them were young adult. Throw in a ‘brother’s best friend love interest and I was sold.
I find this story to be really interesting and I almost wish that it’s an adult book, only because I enjoyed the adult characters more. They are more interesting and I feel like they have more of a story to tell. Ellie doesn’t really know what is going on half the time, which I think is foolish of her grandmother. I have to say the whole idea of not informing someone of something to keep them safe really annoys me. It usually never works, and it just makes me, as a reader, frustrated. Things seem to be just getting good when the book ends.
I do love the relationship between Ellie and Tuck. It’s my favorite part of the book and Tuck is my favorite character. I felt there are a few missed moments here, where things could have been really great, but end up only being good. While not perfect, Valkyrie Rising is a refreshing change from the norm and I hope there are more books to come.
Grade: B-
Summary:
Nothing ever happens in Norway. But at least Ellie knows what to expect when she visits her grandmother: a tranquil fishing village and long, slow summer days. And maybe she’ll finally get out from under the shadow of her way-too-perfect big brother, Graham, while she’s there.
What Ellie doesn’t anticipate is Graham’s infuriating best friend, Tuck, tagging along for the trip. Nor did she imagine boys going missing amid rumors of impossible kidnappings. Least of all does she expect that something powerful and ancient will awaken in her and that strange whispers will urge Ellie to claim her place among mythological warriors. Instead of peace and quiet, suddenly there’s a lot for a girl from L.A. to handle on a summer sojourn in Norway! And when Graham vanishes, it’s up to Ellie—and the ever-sarcastic, if undeniably alluring, Tuck—to uncover the truth about all the disappearances and thwart the nefarious plan behind them.
Deadly legends, hidden identities, and tentative romance swirl together in one girl’s unexpectedly epic coming-of-age.
Read an excerpt.
