The Weaver and the Witch Queen

4.5 stars 



Historical fantasy set in 10th century Norway following two childhood friends, Oddny the healer and Gunnhild the witch as they try to rescue Oddny's sister who was kidnapped in a raid, each of them forging their own path while their bonds are being tested by supernatural and human threats. 

This was a really good historical fantasy ! I loved the main two characters, who were complex and compelling. I loved the emphasis on female friendships, on a woman's power and ambition. The plot was tight and moved fast so this was a page turner. Although some of the dialogue and banter between characters felt a bit too modern at times, the author did a great job showing the culture of Scandinavian countries of that time. 

It was also great to see Sámi culture being featured with 3 side characters (1 having a bigger role but the other 2 had just one appearance), also characters who had parents from beyond the northern lands (correctly showing that vikings were great travellers and developed relations with cities all over the world). There was even an LGBTQ representation for a side character that pleasantly surprised me (not saying what letter and who to avoid spoilers).