Member Reviews
This was such a disappointment. I love mythology and stories that twist and reinvent it, so I was incredibly excited to read this book. There were so many ways to make this a good read: a genuine focus on the impact motherhood has on Angrboda’s life, a closer look at Angrboda’s children, different points of view to broaden the world we're seeing glimpses of, or at a bare minimum a plot that was about something other than how reliant Angrboda is on the people she falls in love with. The only reason I kept reading was because the actual writing is very talented, but the story left much to be desired.
The Witches Heart would be a good pick for people who like Norse mythology or enjoyed Madeline Miller’s Circe. It’s a slow, character driven book with a folkloric style of writing which smooths out the more unbelievable choices the characters make. Although this book wasn't what I was looking for, it was interesting enough for me to keep reading and the ending provided satisfaction.
Similar to Madeline Miller's "Circe" this story of the the legendary witch/giant of Norse mythology, Angrboda, was fascinating and bittersweet. The lyrical language straddled modern fiction and poetry, though occasionally a few anachronistic turns of phrase were distracting. Turning an immortal sorceress capable of birthing giant monsters into a relatable character is quite a feat. I look forward to recommending it to others.
A lovely slow paced retelling of the Viking gods with a different perspective. Even knowing the story’s this Is still full of surprises.