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Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite
The Songweaver's Vow by Laura VanArendonk Baugh is a powerful retelling of Greek and Norse myths woven together in Euthalia's story. When her father trades her to Vikings to save himself, she's horrified to discover that she's to be sacrificed as the bride of a god. She's surprised to find that he's kind and craves to hear her stories of Greek heroes, but he only visits in the night, and requests that she never sees his face. The other gods discover her craft of storytelling and have her share her tales to entertain them. When one of her stories inspires the disturbing punishment of a god, she's forced to turn to a bitter goddess in order to help a friend. Matters get worse when she breaks her word, and discovers a curse on the one she loves. In order to stop Ragnarok, she has to discover the truth behind the gods' lies, and what a true monster looks like.
A new take on the Norse gods that goes back to the ancient roots. The Norse gods have become popular through the Thor films, but few actually know the original tales. It's refreshing to see the Norse myths in their element: entitled, liars, tricksters, a dysfunctional family. Euthalia is thrown into a world she doesn't understand, having to decipher who to trust and who to be wary of. Laura VanArendonk Baugh is well-versed in everything from the trickery of Loki to the perfectly timed mention of Oedipus. It's clear Baugh knows the tales and the legends, and there's a certain pride to the language of Euthalia's stories. I was intrigued by the premise, but I stayed for Euthalia. In a time when women have no power, Euthalia uses her knowledge and stories to prove her power. She's strong, trustworthy, courageous, and isn't afraid to fight for those she loves. She makes mistakes, but she's able to reflect and grow. With trickery, magic, and cleverness, The Songweaver's Vow is the myth lover's dream come true.
