4.5 ⭐
First I wanna say I love Emily Rath and her attention and love for her characters.....I have loved her hockey series so far and was so excited to receive a copy of this book.
I love mythology and retellings of any kind, however I did not know much about Finnish folklore going into this and after reading it I want to know more.....I love the journey these characters go through and how much they grow through out the story. I definitely connected with Sirri a little more than Aina but I am looking forward to seeing where the story goes from here.
I am very excited to read book 2 just sad about how long I have to wait for it.

A beautiful story of friendship, love, family, and what we'll do to protect them. Rooted in Finnish folklore, this was a fascinating read. Parallels can be drawn between northern mythology to those around the world, including the fear of the "one god" who pushes his way into the north. I did find this to be a bit slow paced in the beginning, it wasn't until halfway through that it really grab hold and I needed to find how all the pieces came together. Knowing there is going to be a second book, I was shocked that this didn't end on a cliff-hanger, it could easily be a standalone with all the loose ends tied up nicely. With that said, I will absolutely be reading the second book if/when it gets published.

In the Finnish wilderness, more than wolves roam the dark forests. For Siiri and Aina, summer’s fading light is a harbinger of unwelcome change. Land-hungry Swedes venture north, threatening the peace; a zealous Christian priest denounces the old ways; and young women have begun to disappear.

Siiri vows to protect Aina from danger. But even Siiri cannot stop a death goddess from dragging her friend to Tuonela, the mythical underworld. Determined to save Aina, Siiri braves a dangerous journey north to seek the greatest shaman of legend, the only person to venture to the realm of death and return alive.

In Tuonela, the cruel Witch Queen turns Aina’s every waking moment into a living nightmare. But armed with compassion and cleverness, Aina learns the truth of her capture: the king of the underworld himself has plans for her. To return home, Aina must bargain her heart—as Siiri plots a daring rescue of the woman she loves the most.

In Tuonela, the cruel Witch Queen turns Aina's every waking moment into a living nightmare. But armed with compassion and cleverness, Aina learns the truth of her the king of the underworld himself has plans for her. To return home, Aina must make a costly bargain—even as Siiri plots a daring rescue.

In this sweeping fantasy adventure perfect for fans of Katherine Arden, Naomi Novik, and H.M. Long, hope and love can conquer even death itself.

I had such a great time learning about the Finnish mythology and getting to live vicariously through Siiri and her hardships. This book is so different than the Hockey Romance books I have read from Emily Rath but it still has the lightness and ease she carries through her writing. I think this book will be a staple for readers in the cold long winter nights.

A Captivating Finnish Tale of Love, Sacrifice, and Bravery

Emily Rath's "North is the Night" is a departure from her previous works, yet her signature passion for storytelling shines through. It's like sitting around a campfire, the warmth of the flames on your face, listening to captivating tales that send shivers down your spine.

The Finnish mythology woven throughout the narrative is both captivating and educational. Rath's love for her heritage is evident as she skillfully introduces readers to the rich tapestry of gods and traditions.

Our brave protagonists, Siiri and Aina, embark on a journey filled with sacrifice, love, and unwavering loyalty. Their separation tugs at your heartstrings, leaving you torn between wanting them reunited and cheering for their individual growth. The sacrifices made by both main and side characters are truly moving, showcasing the depths of love and devotion.

Rath's storytelling prowess shines through, pulling you into a world of magic, adventure, and epic battles. The Finnish lore adds a unique and enchanting layer to the narrative, creating a truly immersive experience.

"North is the Night" is a testament to Rath's talent. It's a story that will make you laugh, cry, and fall in love with its characters. If you're looking for a captivating tale of love, courage, and the enduring power of the human spirit, this book is a must-read. I can't wait to see where Rath takes us next in "South is the Sea"!
I read this ARC on my #kindle thanks to Netgalley

I am a huge fan of Emily Rath's Pucking Around series. I knew that North Is The Night would be very different from Pucking Around, but I truly did not know what to expect from it. I have tried reading folklore and mythology books before, but they have never really worked for me. I am so happy to say that I really enjoyed this one!

There was a bit of a learning curve for me in following along with the different Gods and tales of Finnish folklore, but once I settled into the story I had so much fun. The bond between Aina and Siiri was so special, but what I enjoyed most was seeing them figure out who they are when they're forced apart, especially Aina. I'm excited for the next book to see how their story continues.

I LOVED the folklore and mythology of this world, and I adore Siiri and Aina. Both POVs are fantastic - the characters are so different but are both using their own unique skills and talents to overcome their situation. It is so refreshing to have not only one, but two female POVs where neither is secretly executing a million plans behind the scenes that just happen to work out OR just along for the ride knowing nothing. I can't wait to tell all my fantasy fan friends to read this.

First off let me start by saying I LOVE Emily Rath! Also, I’m not a fantasy reader. The story is great. The character development is great. It just wasn’t for me. I hate that too because like I said I love her. I tried really hard to like it.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for this arc. Emily Rath shows with this book she can write in any genre. I will say I read her hockey romance series right before reading this book so I was expecting some spice and that is not what this book is about. This book is based in Finnish folklore and introduced me to the Finnish gods. This author has range I would have never guessed this was an Emily Rath book if I didnt already know. This book is written from the viewpoints of Siiri and Aina. These character have quite a journey that I very much enjoyed. I would recommend this book highly to anyone who likes mythology or folklore. I look forward to reading book two.

3.5 stars rounded up. I have some mixed feelings about this one.

I adore the Finnish setting and all of the Finnish folklore and traditions that set the backdrop for North is the Night. Finland is an often overlooked Nordic setting, with the Scandinavian Vikings taking the majority of the fame so I really appreciated this unique setting. The gods and the realm of the dead were well done and intriguing, with Tuonela truly coming alive on the page. I also loved the character of Siiri and her journey through the wilderness to find the famed lost shaman. She was the character I could root for and connect with throughout the entire book. Though, I think some of the antagonists in her story were a tad underdeveloped and one-note.

Unfortunately, I did not care as much for Aina and her storyline, especially after about the halfway mark. The Tuonela setting was amazing and characters like the goddesses Kalma and Loviatar were layered and interesting, but Aina herself left something to be desired. I did not care for her storyline with the god of the dead and felt like it was a weird addition to the story that gave me major ick vibes at times. I also could easily feel Siiri's yearning and passion for Aina but did not feel like Aina had the same yearning for Siiri.

I will probably pick up the sequel but hope that it focuses less on the M/F relationship.

Thank you to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for allowing me to read the ARC and share my views on the book.

The book starts with a quick introduction and then jumps right into the action which gripped my attention and didn't let up until the end!
The story surrounds two FMCs that through their journeys discover just how strong they are by trying to take control of their own destinies. I loved the dual POV and found myself more drawn to Aina's story.
My heart broke for Tuoni, but it sings for Aina and Saari. I really loced this story!

As a Finn, it was really interesting to see Emily Rath's take on the mythology and characters. The book is packed full of it, and I believe it's a lovely representation of Finnish culture and life. I enjoyed seeing Sámi words in there along with Finnish, but I would hope there are redeeming stories about the Sámi people in the next book. Thanks to the character, Lumi, the Sámi people overall are shown as the villains, or at least helpless.

I'm really looking forward to book 2 and continuing their journey!

Let me start with saying this book is nothing like any of Emily’s other books! However her passion and love of her characters shines through regardless.

North is the Night is the all encompassing feeling of sitting around a blazing fire, surrounded by woods, listening to the tales of old. It is the warmth of the fire on your face and that ever present feeling to look over your shoulder and make sure nothing is sneaking up behind you, all while the warmth of your loved ones and the stories they spin lull you into a feeling of safety and familiarity.

The Finish mythology in this book is told through the eyes of Siiri and Aina and is captivating and educating rather than overwhelming. I found myself eager to learn more of the different gods and traditions, and amazed at how beautifully it all wove into the story being told. The passion and love that the author has for her Finish heritage was unmistakable.

As for the story, Siiri and Aina take us on a journey of sacrifice, bravery, love, friendship, and loyalty. I found myself cheering for them to succeed and torn between wanting them to reunite quickly or find more strength in themselves by being separated. I hope other readers will be as moved as I was by sacrifices made in this book. Not only by the main characters but multiple side characters who lay down everything, some including their own lives, to save a loved one.

I cannot wait to see the adventure Emily takes us on in South is the Sea.

This was a wonderfully researched and well-written book, but it was not for me. I love the author and her other works, but this book was very different than her other titles. With that being said, I think this book is great for the right person. I will continue reading her work, and would recommend this to anyone who is interested in Finnish folklore.

I loved This book! Such an interesting story. Emily’s writing is as always so riveting. Such a cozy read. Highly recommend! ❤️

Thank you to our lovely author, Emily Rath and NetGalley for the opportunity to receive this ARC. It turned out to be a new favorite! It's my first read from Emily Rath and definitely didn't disappoint. I laughed, I loved, I cried, this story pulled all my heartstrings.

It's a captivating story of love, courage, and grit built in two young women who cease at nothing in their path to get back to one another.

A magical adventure that accumulated all the best features of an epic novel filled with the enchanting lore of Finnish gods and magic weaving the lands in a time of religious colonization. An epic journey to do the impossible, following a worthy chosen on a mission to fulfill her prophesy, and a sacrificial lamb willing to give up everything in the name of love.

I devoured this book and immediately ran to preorder the Special Edition to go on my trophy case. I'm very excited for this release and to see where the story takes Siiri and Aina.

This was such a departure from the author's previous works I've read. I wasn't the biggest fan her other books I've tried, but I really enjoyed this one. I really enjoyed the retelling inspired by Scandinavian folklore and thought the author painted a beautiful picture of the setting and characters. I feel like this book was more about strong friendship and romance per se. There were romantic elements, but I didn't feel it was the driving force of the story. I hope Rath will continue in this genre, as I definitely liked it better than her other books I have checked out.

"North is the Night" by Emily Rath is a captivating and haunting tale set against the backdrop of the Arctic. The author's vivid descriptions bring the harsh beauty of the North to life, and the characters are richly drawn and deeply compelling. Rath's storytelling is powerful, and she weaves together themes of isolation, survival, and human connection in a way that kept me gripped from beginning to end. This is a must-read for anyone who enjoys atmospheric and thought-provoking literary fiction.

This was such an epic, unique, and lovely fantasy full of longing, friendship, and love. Very interesting characters with lots of depth and feeling. I loved it! What an adventure.

I didn't realize the book didn't have on page spice like many of Emily's other books. I don't want to punish her in a rating for my failure to look into a book. I won't be reviewing further.

"Do not hide like a frog in the mud, pretending the winter is not happening all around you. The gods are real."

Author Emily Rath takes her beloved Finnish history and folktales, and weaves for us a tapestry of epic fantasy proportions.

Siiri is an amazing character - brave and broken, strong and scared, carrying the hopes and dreams of an entire people, while just hoping to save her other half. Her story is tangled and beautiful - and I couldn't put it down until the very end!

This book is a perfect fit for fans of Katherine Arden's Winternight and SA Chakraborty's Daevabad. A blend of fantasy and history and the old gods, this story harkens back to The Odyssey and the Finnish pantheon, and every campfire story we tell in the dark.

"My dearest friend, my truest north, she followed me to the very depths of death."

This was so different from the normal Emily Rath books that I've read but she did a fantastic job with the fantasy element. I was afraid I wouldn't be a fan because it's not her normal genre but Rath is such a talented writer and storyteller that I had no issues falling in love with this book.