Fate’s relentless call, and a treacherous path to embrace it
Kyiv, Gardarike 883 CE
Astrid navigates an uncertain future when she arrives at the court of Grand Prince Oleg in Kyiv. Her reunion with her husband, Kjarr, is long-awaited but bittersweet. She has yet to tell him of their daughter’s death, her own near-fatal encounters, and the reappearance of a former lover.
She is not the only one with secrets to tell.
A skald weaves a haunting melody of impending sorrow as a forbidden union threatens the burgeoning Rus’ dynasty. Prince Mal, the war-hungry Drevlian leader, bears the brunt of Grand Prince Oleg’s desire for territorial domination. Behind the facade of noble boyars, fierce druzhina warriors, and their cunning wives, the Kyiv court becomes a battlefield of treachery and deadly rivalries.
With destiny and loyalty hanging in the balance, Astrid must trust the voice that guides her, even if that means defying her husband. As her fate intertwines with the Kyiv nobles and their pursuit of power, Astrid must grapple with duty and her ambition, a struggle that will shape the future of the Rus’.
Her descriptions pulled me straight into the Viking age—I could almost feel the cold air and hear the clash of swords. The scenery and context were so immersive it felt like I was right there, living it all.
This book has so many complex and loveable characters
Formanek creates such warm and loveable characters, with her insight into the women's perspective bringing great depth to the story. Her descriptions of the sights and events of the period bring the reader along with her on the adventure.