We are back in the realm of Raine's point of view. So many things have changed over the course of a few books. It is hard to imagine that these are the same characters that we met in the first book.

The character development on the continuing characters was not bad, but the introduction of new characters left a lot to the imagination. On most of the newly introduced persons, we have little, if any, background on them and a whole lot of wondering if they are really who they say they are.

Some of the plot turns are trippy and will leave you wondering what you could have possibly missed. An enjoyable read overall.

For the negatives, there were several times where there were character name inconsistencies and poorly edited sections. This was not as bad as in the previous book, but it was still there and still a distraction for this reader. Maybe the rest of you are not as anal about editing as I am.

The story concept in and of itself is interesting and I find myself wondering if this is really the end of it or if there is more to come in the future. ( )

We are back in the realm of Raine's point of view. So many things have changed over the course of a few books. It is hard to imagine that these are the same characters that we met in the first book.

The character development on the continuing characters was not bad, but the introduction of new characters left a lot to the imagination. On most of the newly introduced persons, we have little, if any, background on them and a whole lot of wondering if they are really who they say they are.

Some of the plot turns are trippy and will leave you wondering what you could have possibly missed. An enjoyable read overall.

For the negatives, there were several times where there were character name inconsistencies and poorly edited sections. This was not as bad as in the previous book, but it was still there and still a distraction for this reader. Maybe the rest of you are not as anal about editing as I am.

The story concept in and of itself is interesting and I find myself wondering if this is really the end of it or if there is more to come in the future. ( )

Walters has done it again by releasing another captivating installment in her imaginative Runes series that brings Norse Mythology to life and takes readers into a world where Valkyries, Immortals, and Grimnirs hide in plain sight unbeknownst to mortals around them as they carry out the bidding of their gods and goddesses. Because of her supernatural lineage the young heroine of the series, Raine Cooper, has now become part of this paranormal world, learning to create magical runes and discovering her powers as a Seeress.

I recommend readers new to this series read the books in sequential order to fully understand and appreciate the comprehensive plot that expands in each installment. However, Walters does an excellent job of providing ample exposition throughout the novel to explain and remind readers of important events that occurred in the previous books that remain relevant to this novel’s storyline. She also includes a glossary at the beginning of each installment to help readers become familiar with the Norse terminology frequently used in the narration and dialogue.

Since Raine has learned that she is an extremely powerful Seeress, the one destined to foresee the start of “Ragnarok” or the war leading to the end of the world, her elevated status has made her a target in the Immortal world for those seeking to use her gifts for their own agendas. The Norns continue to antagonize Raine in their efforts to get her to join them, and now a new threat has emerged, one connected to Torin’s past that will test the solidarity of Raine and Torin’s relationship. Finally, I was so glad to learn more about Torin’s family and some painful moments of his past that continue to haunt him.

The attraction and chemistry between Raine and Torin is still as strong as ever, and although they have some intense make out sessions, I admire the restraint they show before letting things go too far. I can appreciate that they are taking their relationship slowly, especially since Raine has experienced so much change in her life in such a short amount of time. Raine isn’t as snarky as when she was first introduced; she’s more serious but still has the feisty streak in her that I like. She also still does a lot of drooling over Torin, which at times was a bit much for me, but I guess it’s typical for a seventeen-year-old who’s in love.

I was glad that many of the supporting characters I’ve grown fond of and have become invested in, such as Andris, Cora, Echo, and Eirik play active roles in this story, and many of these characters continue to grow and change, so they don’t become static and predictable. Andris is still the flamboyant Valkyrie who is endearing one minute and infuriating the next, but in this novel he seems more subdued. Ingrid is becoming stronger and more expressive than she has before. And Eirik’s behavior is becoming more erratic. His attitude hints that he has experienced some traumatic events during his stay in Hel. I hope he will be featured more prominently in the near future.

Walters kept me engaged the entire time as I followed Raine’s journey in learning to discern and control the premonitions she begins to have when she touches people or objects. Her visions are confusing and disturbing and call into question whom Raine can trust. Just as in the previous books, not all is as it seems, and Walters continued to surprise me all the way to the end. I look forward to what’s next for Raine and the gang.

Source: I received an ARC of this book from the author to provide an honest review. ( )