Slaughtered Gods by Thilde Kold Holdt - Book Review

What an emotional rollercoaster this trilogy has been! I was familiar with Norse mythology and thought I knew what would happen. Fortunately, the author puts a fresh spin on old folklore and keeps you guessing the whole time. There will be some emotional moments, so please make sure to have a tissue box on hand.

Book Description

Worlds collide – and are shattered – in the epic conclusion of the Northern Wrath saga.

The Concluding Part of the Epic Viking Fantasy Trilogy

ALL SHALL PERISH

The great wolf howls for Ragnarok to begin. The half-giant Einer leads an army of the dead to clash with the golden shields of Asgard. The nornir tie and retie their threads, as Loki’s and Odin’s schemes unfold… and unravel. For not even cunning gods and giants see every part of the web.

As the survivors of the burned village of Ash-hill converge on the final battle on Ida’s Plain, only two are truly free to choose their paths and prevent the annihilation of the nine worlds: a storyteller who holds all destinies in his hands, and a shieldmaiden with no destiny at all.

About the author

Thilde Kold Holdt is a Viking, traveller and a polygot fluent in Danish, French, English and Korean. As a writer, she is an avid researcher. This is how she first came to row for hours upon hours on a Viking warship. She loved the experience so much that she has sailed with the Viking ship the Sea Stallion ever since. Born in Denmark, Thilde has lived in many places and countries, taking a bit of each culture with her, and is currently based in Southern France where she writes full-time.

My Review

With Ragnarok approaching, our main characters must either pick a side or work to change the end result by helping some gods or plotting against them.

"It's time the nine worlds got their way. Let the shackles fall and let the Darkness consume us, as it was always meant to do."

The focal theme of this book was Ragnarok, the enormous war between giants and gods that caused unimaginable death. Loose ends get tied, and those who died proving their bravery, find their place in Valhalla. If you're familiar with Norse Mythology, you know beforehand what's going to happen, but rest assured, you get enough plot twists to keep you guessing. I did not see that ending coming!

One of my favorite characters was Hilda, the shield maiden whose resilience, despite losing her sight, is inspiring. She is fierce and loyal and wants recognition from Odin.

As we rush towards Ragnarok, the gods take a back seat in this saga's climax, yet they are still very much present. Hilda feels obligated to fight for her god, Odin after Loki convinces Einer to support him at Ragnarok.

The Hanged God trilogy is a fascinating read steeped in folklore, with multiple POVs, many gods, demons, giants, nine realms, and storylines that intertwine in one intricate tale. Prepare for epic battles and gut-wrenching deaths, but at the end of the day, you'll be happy with how fates tied all the threads.