Infinite_Reader

Release Date: November 22, 2013

Publication Group: HarperCollins Publishers

Pages: 345

Format: Hardcover

Rating: 3.75

Valkyrie Rising follows the tales of the legendary Valkyrie Warriors of Norse Mythology. It is told from the perspective of Elsa Overholt, who ventures to Skavopoll, Norway to visit her grandmother with her brother Graham and his best friend, Tucker Halloway. While in the tranquil fishing village, Elsa learns about missing boys among rumors of impractical kidnappings. Above all, does she consider the ancient power that is lingering in her blood, urging Ellie to acknowledge her position amongst her Valkyrie Sisters. Instead of the peaceful vacation she signed up for, suddenly there is a lot of dangers to handle for a girl from Los Angelos. Together with, the sarcastic and alluring Tuck, Elsa must rescue her brother Graham, expose the truth behind the disappearances and impede the heinous scheme behind them. 

The book was fairly understandable and wasn't confusing in the least bit. The story line was easy to follow along and the book overall, was quite fun to read. I enjoyed Graham's over-protective instinct towards Elsa, I thought it was quite sweet. Plus, I can understand Ellie's annoyance towards this, as I have an older brother as well. Additionally, Tucker's attraction and ever-sarcastic behaviour, made the book even more interesting to read.

However, I felt as if the book was a little dull. In the beginning, the book was moving a little too slowly for my taste. I felt that the author took too long to have Elsa discover who and what she really was. Also, I believe that Ingrid Paulson could have been slightly more descriptive in some cases (i.e. the fight scenes with the Valkyries).

The climax was very interesting and convinced me continue reading. At the beginning I had to force myself to finish the novel however; that quickly changed due to Graham's abduction and Tucker's confessions. 

The setting of the novel, Skavopoll, Norway, figured into the the book very effectively, as Norway is one of the countries which contain Norse mythology as their religion and beliefs. 

Overall, Ingrid Paulson did a great job in writing this YA mythological novel. It was quite fun to read and i enjoyed every part of it. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Norse Mythology, fantasy, adventure, action and romance. This is a great YA novel to read during the summer and I hope many people decide to read it on their vacations or even during their spare time.