Reign of Redemption — A Review of “Nameless Queen”

At the beginning of December, I posted a teaser for Marie’s new book, “Nameless Queen” as she generously provided two excerpts for curious readers. Marie also offered me a copy of the book that I absolutely devoured and I was impressed by her version of Hel. If you love retellings, make sure not to miss out on this one.

Book description from the back cover

All things end, and all must die.

But death is not always the end.

When Geiravor Lokisdottir was stripped of her name and cast out of Asgard, torn from her family and the life she had known, she thought she’d lost it all. But in the shadows of Niflheim, she discovers the path to her destiny and what it truly means to be a queen.

This is a prequel to THE PROPHECIES OF RAGNAROK trilogy by Meri Benson and Marie Sinadjan, and a retelling of the myths involving Hel, the Norse goddess of death and the Queen of the Underworld.

Reign of Redemption - My Book review

“Nameless Queen” by Marie Sinadjan is a mesmerizing reinterpretation of the myth of Hel, the queen of the underworld. Geiravor Lokisdottir’s journey unfolds as she is stripped of her name and banished from Asgard, thrust into the shadows of Niflheim. Amid her shattered world, she discovers the elusive path to her destiny and grapples with the profound responsibilities of royalty.

Marie’s unique spin on this Norse myth captivates, offering a refreshing take on the typically dark narratives. Hel’s descent into the underworld is a wild ride. It’s all about getting to the heart of what it means to be a true queen. It’s a tale of leadership, resilience, and self-discovery.

The author skillfully molds a narrative distinct from conventional Norse myths, shedding light on Loki’s daughter in a way that defies expectations. Hel, once deemed unworthy of Valhalla, emerges not as a harbinger of darkness, but as a compassionate leader in Helheim. With the support of her devoted assistant, she endeavors to forge a haven for souls rejected by Valhalla, creating a sense of belonging amidst the shadows.

As Ragnarok looms, Hel leads a host of souls she has embraced with kindness — a poignant testament to the rewards of compassion. In her storytelling, Marie Sinadjan paints a vivid picture of a queen’s journey, leaving a lasting impact on readers and showcasing the power of compassion in the face of impending doom.

I recommend the Nameless Queen to all Norse Mythology lovers.