Beautiful photo by crescentfiction!
Hello fairy friends!
Happy Monday, I hope you all have a good day! Welcome to day 1 of the February Adult Book readalong of A Fate Inked in Blood by Danielle L. Jensen. I am super excited to be reading this with you all!
Before we start, how are you all doing? I hope you all had a wonderful weekend and are ready to explore this new fantasy world with me!
Since today is day 1, we’ll be reading from the beginning to the end of chapter 8. Make sure you are comfy then we can begin!
When you’ve finished today’s section, catch up with me in the comments down below so we can discuss the beginning of the book. Happy reading!
Please be warned, the following section will include spoilers for A Fate Inked in Blood by Danielle L. Jensen from the beginning to the end of Chapter 8. Please only read on if you have finished this section!
!SPOILERS
From these first few pages I can tell already that I love Freya. She is giving a strong and feral energy that seems will be entertaining to read about.
That initial back and forth between Freya and who I assume is Bjorn is everything. Is anyone else loving how much they bicker? This will be so much fun to read!
Not the Jarl Snorri appearing with Bjorn and Vragi! Her husband wants a divorce but to prove that she can be a warrior she needs to fight Bjorn to the death. He seems to not want to be a part of this situation at all but she thinks she can defeat him which….. is a little delusional but I guess we will see.
This story is so fast-paced, I am loving it so far! Freya is holding her own against Bjorn, but is he truly giving his all during the fight? Considering he has an axe made of flame and is blessed by the gods, you’d think he would be doing better, right?
Freya revealing her secrets whilst fighting is so iconic, I love knowing that she tricked her husband. She can’t win the battle so calls on Hiln to save her, but unfortunately, now she has to marry the Jarl, as she is part of a prophecy to unite the people.
Can we talk about how much Vragi is getting on my nerves? He sold her out and now wants to marry Ingrid to spite her! I have never been so happy to see a character die! Thank you, Freya!
But wait, not the fire from the axe completely burning her hand and wrist? Bjorn not letting her look at her wrist is very sweet of him, especially when trying to distract her with jokes. She looks anyway (which is what I would do) and her hand is nearly burnt off.
They have been taken to the main settlement of Halsar and hopefully the healer can fix her hand, but she has been introduced to the Jarl’s wife, Ylva, who clearly does not like her.
Bjorn is so sweet to Freya, helping her out and opening up to her. I wonder why he does this for her? I wonder if he likes her? I did truly laugh when she got high and admitted she finds Bjorn beautiful. Liv calls for her to be healed by Eir, but only with Bjorn’s help does she start to heal.
When she is awoken, the Jarl is there and asking to see her hand. He calls it ugly, but says that it just needs to be strong. Not exactly what you would want to hear is it?
I wonder why he has to marry her? Can’t he just control her with magic or threats? Both he and his wife don’t want her to be a part of their marriage – instead it is a case of them sacrificing themselves as part of the bigger picture.
I love discovering how the magic works and how the children of the gods are made. She is truly the chosen one as she is the only one with Hiln’s protection.
The wedding is here. Not the most ideal situation for Freya, but she will endure for her family. I love that no matter what, she will protect those that she loves.
Ingrid arrives to speak with her about her sacrifice and gifts her the sword that her father wielded. I hate that her friend says she will be happier as a warrior, when all she wanted was for Ingrid to tell her to call off the wedding. Bjorn hears everything, and tells her that she is better off without them.
The wedding is uneventful and they are quickly married. It is soon revealed to everyone why they were married – she is the shield maiden from the prophecy.
But it is not over for Freya yet. The event of her being claimed by the goddess sounds so painful! I mean, she is nearly ripped in two! Wait, she has two marks? Where did the other one come from?
Freya getting annoyed with Bjorn for flirting with another woman made me giggle. You’re not meant to be looking at him, Freya! You literally just married his father!
Bjorn admits Snorri is good at twisting stories to suit his own desires. And once more, we see the bickering start. When he said nothing about her is ugly, I think I fell in love. The tensions are rising!
I am glad to see that no one wants her to be with Snorri, especially Ylva. The idea that Ylva suggests is a blood oath – Freya will only be controlled by someone of Snorri’s blood. Does that include Bjorn? Will this work?
Luckily, Freya doesn’t have to consummate their marriage as Ylva takes her place. Which is such a good idea! As she is hiding, she goes on a mission to find the Seer who told the prophecy, but instead finds Bjorn. Instead of running away as Bjorn suggests, she will stay to protect her family.
But we’re not given a second before raiders appear in the distance and we’re left with so many questions before our next section.
What a start to the story, it is very fast-paced and I am loving it! I can’t wait to see where it goes.
How are you enjoying the story so far?
Do you trust Bjorn?
What do you think of Freya?
I am excited to read more with you all tomorrow, fairies!
Love,
Emily
I love the story so far! The chemistry between Bjorn and Freya in the beginning (before we knew it was him) was amazing! I was already drooling 😆😍.
I like her defiant character and her spirit. I hate everyone else around her that they are selfish to the bone! I am so pissed at her brother and her friend… they only care for their own skin! 😡 Freya was ready to sacrifice her life for everyone, when everyone else didn’t even offer a small gesture back. Not even just by words… 😒
I love that we get some glimpses with her father in the past. I hope we get more of these as we read on. I need to know more about the father and what he knew! 🧐
This new adventure and what awaits them is exciting me a lot! I can’t wait to see what the Seer has to say and if what Snorri shared with everyone was the truth in the end. Which, I am certain it is not, but let’s see.
It is my first time reading something from this author and I love her writing so far. The pacing is great and I get all different kinds of emotions while reading it. I can’t wait for the rest!
P.S.: I think Bjorn is hiding a lot… but as you also said too Emily, I fell in love during that moment as well! 😍
Bjorn is somehow already giving me new favourite book-boyfriend vibes! 😍
I know right?! I am reading a bit ahead because I will not have much time tomorrow, but I can’t wait to share my thoughts on tomorrow’s post! I am so happy we are doing this readalong! 😍
This is my first adult book read along, and this is one of my most anticipated reads this year and so o hope it delivers!
Freya is interesting, so far I do like her as a character, but I want to see her take charge of her life a bit more, I get that she cares about her family but I’m like girl what about youuuu.
When she axed Vragi, I was thrilled and I kinda hope she does the same to Snorri lol
Bjorn seems to be the only other person who cares about her feelings, and I like him a lot. He’s my favorite character
This book is already so such a whirlwind
It is a whirlwind and I am loving it! 💜
Absolutely loving the start of this book and so happy I finally have the time to join in for my first read along! Cannot wait to read more tomorrow!
Yay! I am so glad you are enjoying it! 💜
I forgot to mention that this book’s setting reminded me of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla when I saw it first and I was so in for it from the very beginning! 😍😍
I am reading the book along with that soundtrack and the vibes are PERFECT.
But I am also lowkey visualising Freya as female-Eivor haha
I am loving the pacing of this story and was invested in both the characters and the overall plot of what’s happening in the world so quickly! Freya killing Vragi was one of the MOST SATISFYING things I have ever read and confirmed my absolute love for her.
I had several of the same questions about the blood oath and if it means that she’s also tied to Bjorn – I’m really excited to see how that plays out! The whole time I was reading this scene I couldn’t help but think “I, like the Gods, enjoy cleaverness” given the conversation they had before making the vow.
I also love that Bjorn is unafraid to tell Freya what he thinks about her and what’s happening to her, but doesn’t try to argue his points, just leaves them for her to ponder.
I assume the two marks and the whole almost being ripped apart means that she is marked by two gods, right?
Also, my brain is CONVINCED that the prophecy isn’t definitively about Snorri, but just about a Jarl in general and we’re going to see it come true with someone else? Idk.
I do think that Bjorn is hiding something, but I don’t think it’s something evil or malicious (this is just because I refuse to let him be the bad guy because my love is so strong).
Freya is already one of my new favourite heroines! 💜
Great start!
i didn’t even read the synopsis before jumping in, I only knew it was fantasy vikings and so far it delivers!
Freya is a wonderful and strong character and at the same time she needs someone to cheer her up. Gosh, between her husband (what a piece!) and her brother who doesn’t even think about her or her so called friend… I agree with Bjork, it feels like no one has her back, ever.
I really want to see them bond and have each other’s backs.
I was hooked so fast! The last few books I’ve read took maybe around 100 pages to “set the scene” and this story gets right into it! I’m a big fan of Freya for sure. I really like that she’s written as a more realistic MC where she’s making brave choices but acknowledges when she’s still afraid making her all the braver.
Plus, her hurling that axe into Vragi’s head was SO satisfying! He was terrible from the beginning but when he tricked her brother regarding marring Ingrid, I was seeing red! You’ve gotta appreciate the viking culture giving the shrug to a violent murder that happened right in front of several witnesses.
Oh, Bjorn. So mysterious! So many questions! You know this guy has got some juicy secrets to reveal! I feel like the other comments on here say the rest. Big fan of this character.
Overall, I’m so into this story! I think that there are some points that may make key plot points a bit predictable later but that doesn’t change the fact that this has been a really fun read so far! The book has been hard to put down and I can’t wait to get into the next section!
That initial back and forth between Freya and Bjorn is what hooked me! I live for their banter
I love any form of banter! 💜
How are you enjoying the story so far?
Oh my god, the first chapter is already hook!!! I couldn’ stop reading and felt like I’m already in the middle of the progress. But of course, I want to follow the group readalong as schedule. 😂 So far, this book really promises a story with Freya and Bjorn together against the odds. I really can’t wait to see the obstacles and the flaws what’s coming from or afterward of the characters. It also well done Author Danielle put up a Viking’s bit of culture and tradition, especially the Norse Mythology inspiration is spot on! 👏🏻
Do you trust Bjorn?
I love Bjorn and his definition of sense of humor! 😍🥰 The way he said over any point is hilarious to Freya. His bickering just made Freya coming more vex and so I know I’ll wait for that as we continue reading. 😂 It’s a yes and no to trust Bjorn, sometimes it was kinda hard to determine what he meant, probably hiding a truth or something that Freya doesn’t need to know about the prophecy, the fate, and truest goal what Freya is capable of (instead of a Shield Maiden, more so a weapon as an advantage). He speaks from what he has in mind and observes first before taking action!
What do you think of Freya?
Freya is such a strong woman!! Swear to Valhalla and Hel, she knows what she’s doing and gave herself a mind check. Her morals, debations, and doubts is so relatable as any person does in any complicated situation. She wants to be more as a warrior than a submissive wife who follows orders. How I wish people would listen to her issues but it is hard to believe. Freya is one of the FMC to admire! I can’t wait to see her character in growth and develops through the story, especially to connect with Bjorn in this journey together. It would be a long ride! ⚒️❄️🏔
I am absolutely loving this so far! I haven’t read anything from this author before, though most of her books have been on my radar for a while. I have made a note for myself that I definitely need to pick up more of her books in the future!
I’m enjoying Freya as a main character. I literally gasped out loud when she threw that axe at Vragi! I can’t wait to see how this story unfolds and how Freya might grow as a character. I do trust Bjorn. Simply because, so far, I like him.
Anyway, I’m eating this up! I’m going to get back to reading since today’s chunk kind of left off on a cliffhanger and I need to know what happens ASAP!
I’m so excited for this one!!
Enjoy the rest of the reading! 💜
Really enjoying this and it kind of reminds me of the film The Northman, although even though this hasn’t been easy sailing that film is very brutal.
I’m liking the pacing of this it feels fast but not too fast. I trust the author to take us where we need to go. It feels really well thought out and the world is slowly being built rather than info dumps.
I do trust Bjorn but feel like there’s more going on with him than we know yet.
I am here for whatever comes. I also have theories about the blood oath maybe stretching to his son? 👀
It seems so likely Bjorn would be part of the blood oath!
Wow what a great opening section. Love the pacing of this and how much backstory we are getting already.
Freya is a very interesting protagonist and I am thinking we will see her stand up and take control of her own fate. The moment she throws that axe at Vragi was so satisfying.
I have fallen in love with Bjorn already. I think there is a lot more to find out about him. These two have great chemistry though.I breathed a sigh of relief that Freya didn’t have to consummate her marriage to Snorri
Looking forward to tomorrow’s section
I love this book. It’s fast paced, lots of action and it keeps me wanting to read more and more to know what’s going to happen next.
Freya is an amazing character. I love how she is so strong and independent despite her difficult circumstances.
The chemistry between her and Bjorn is off the charts. He is the only one that seems to care about her. I also like the healer Liz.
I was so glad to see the back of Vagri, and that he realised at the last minute that Freya was tricking him all along so she wouldn’t get pregnant by him.
I don’t like her brother and her friend. The brother is such a coward and weak person, not standing up for her or protecting her. They seem to be selfish, and only interested in the benefits they get from Freya’s sacrifice.
This is the first book I read by this author and I’m loving it so far!
I’m so glad you are enjoying the story! Also, I agree about her brother he seems the worst! 💜
I don’t usually highlight or annotate books but Freya and Bjorn’s first interaction made me want to do both.
I love Freya – she is feral, fierce and strong and cannot wait to see how her character develops. As for Bjorn, not many male characters make me internally scream so early on in a book. Excited to see how he grows as we go on
I really think the 2 marks means 2 Gods, i hope so!
Also – the blood oath, it talks about “his blood” not Snorri himself, so could it be taken to mean his child too as he technically possesses the same blood?! 😉
So far I’m loving it, it’s keeping me really interested and I don’t want to put it down.
I do want to trust him, I feel like he doesn’t like his dad all that much and I think that will play into the rest of the book.
I love Freya so far. I love when a girl can hold her own and sticks up for herself. I think she’s going to be a force to be reckoned with.
She is giving don’t mess with me energy! 💜
1) How are you enjoying the story so far?
I am LOVING it! I’m reading it with the Assassin’s Creed Valhalla soundtrack as background music and it’s adding to the vibes.
2) Do you trust Bjorn?
I mean, yes because he’s the love interest and a main character haha. But I’m still wary about his motivations. I bet he’s going to overthrow his father (ALSO! I noted in the deal Freya made with Snorri and his wife – she said she wouldn’t lie to and would serve his bloodline. Which includes his son 👀).
He’s definitely the best/ least infuriating male character so far.
3) What do you think of Freya?
Love her. I can’t wait to see her grow, learn how to stand up for herself/ tell her family to get stuffed, and see what she’s capable of.
ALSO, I’m SO curious about the two tattoos mean?
Was she blessed by two different gods at her conception? If so, who is number two????
Is there more to the prophesy that hasn’t been shared yet?? (I’m sure there is)
I think we’ve only heard part of the prophecy! 💜
I am LOVING the pacing so far! Sometimes adult fantasy takes its sweet time getting to the good stuff – definitely not the case here… I can’t believe how much happened in the first 80 pages!
Very into the sexual tension that’s brewing between F&B…. Forn? We need to work on a couple name 🤣
Very curious about the two tattoos; assuming it means she’s been claimed by two gods – but who’s the second, and will she have a second power?! 😨
And now there’s a raid coming?! Holy cow!
Really happy to be here for my first read along, and first adult sub book from Fairyloot! 💗
I hope you enjoy the rest of the readalong! 🥰
I’m doing good! I had a great weekend. How about you?
I’m so excited for this readalong I loved this book! Freya and Bjorn’s banter always makes me laugh, which is good because I want to throw Snorri off a cliff. Bjorn with her hand was just 😍. I feel so bad for Freya she is forced to marry horrible man after horrible man!! Hopefully a loving, good-humored fire wilder is in her future.
One of my favorite non Freya or Bjorn funny lines is ““Fish, I expect. What other reason is there to talk with Vragi?” I’m so happy Freya got her revenge on him.
Her getting revenge so early on was so satisfying! 💜
I am loving the fast pace action of this book! It is way too wild and eventful for me even to linger in processing what’s happened to Freya, let alone imagining her getting g any time to process it herself!
I do trust Bjorn in that “he’s super likable but is going to break hearts and have a betrayal moment but we’ll love him again” type of way.
Freya is FIERCE. The woman has mighty strength and wit, I can’t imagine anyone nor Freya to be able to remotely endure everything she’s gone through even so far!
The pace of the story is keeping me so intrigued! 💜
1. How are you enjoying the story so far?
I’m really intrigued by the world and really enjoyed that first part of the book! The only thing I would comment is that I’m not familiar with Norse Mythology, so when certain names of gods are dropped, I don’t really know what type of gods they are. I would’ve liked a bit more information/clarification on those.
2. Do you trust Bjorn?
Yes, I do. He comes across as very honest actually. When Freya asked if he believed that he would protect her, he said no. I think he’s trustworthy because he doesn’t lead her on or lies because of that. But, I also think he hides something important.
I somehow also thinks the blood oath she swore is partly tied to him, since she swore “off this blood” and children are often off their parents blood. So that might come into play later on in the book as well!
3. What do you think of Freya?
I really like her! I’m a bit sad at the situation she finds herself in, going from one marriage to the next, but I’m liking her personality and can’t wait to see the growth she’ll hopefully go through!
This is my first book by Danielle Jensen and I’m loving it so far!
I particularly like the character of Freya, and I’m curious about the significance of her having two marks and almost being torn apart. It seems likely that she’s been marked by two gods, but who could the second one be? Also, why was Bjorn able to see what was happening to her? He’s definitely a fascinating character and would make a great book boyfriend. Although I’m starting to think he might be keeping something from Freya, I still trust him for now.
I agree! I think he has secrets but I still trust him! 💜
I really love me some slow-burn romance, and this book seems to be all that and more! Freya and Bjorn’s banter had me giggle quite a few times (that fish slap was seariously so funny – see what I did there? XD). I like Freya, she seems to be quite the altruist, which seems fitting with her being the shield maiden, but man, was I pissed off she didn’t say anything to her brother and Ingrid – that’s not a friend. As for Bjorn, despite him being gorgeous, I am inclined to trust him because I do love his spunk but also because if he wanted to kill Freya during their fight, he would, but it was obvious he was holding back – I wish he was more assertive with Snorri though. Ylva, no, she’s getting on my nerves; I don’t understand her angle, so she’s on my ‘villain’s list’.
Slow-burn romances are annoying yet satisfying! 💜
The opening chapters were great! I loved Freya’s and Bjorn’s first meet, the flying fish scene was hilarious 🤣 Instant chemustry between them.. The wording of the blood oath is totally meant for Bjorn 🥰
I really think that Snorri should die soon…he really doesn’t care about anyone but himself…
Freya….mmmh i think that she will be soon a real pain with the thing that she must protect her family (they really don’t care about her…just look about who she had to marry…twice!).
Bjorn is a saint…what a patience must have with Freya…
We can only hope Snorri doesn’t last too long! 💜
I’m very interested in the story! I can’t wait to find out what happens with the raiders. I’m having trouble connecting to Freya as the narrator. I just think she’s immature and annoying. But I’m looking forward to figuring out what happens next.
my first norse inspired read and i’m here for it!!!!
loving this book so far!!!
I’m so glad you are enjoying the story! 💜
How are you enjoying the story so far?
– I’m really enjoying it so far – since chapter 1 😅 – my first Viking themed and DLJ read. I love the hints of jealousy already brewing between Freya and Bjorn.
Do you trust Bjorn?
– so far yes – he’s the nicest male so far which isn’t saying much but he does seem very loyal to his father but I think as the story enfolds he will be the destined king with Freya as his queen / shield maiden.
What do you think of Freya?
– I love Freya so far – I was so happy when she killed Vragi 😂 it was well deserved – she seems so strong and capable and loyal to her family. It’s frustrating to imagine being a woman in that life when your only option is to be a wife / mother and the men being awful.
I’m so glad you’re enjoying the story! 💜
Just caught up with day one, loving how fast paced this is right from the start and can’t wait to immediately read the day 2 chapters! Love the banter between bjorn and freya, so glad freya didn’t have to consumate the marriage with snorri, and i’m hoping the blood oath referring to “this blood” rather than snorri directly means that it can include bjorn too?😍
Do you know that feeling when you read two pages and are completely attached emotionally. That’s me with this book. Love it!🥰
My book bestie is reading it as well and we were messaging after every page. So many emotions and excitement that needs to be shared🤗
I love sharing my thoughts as I read! 💜
I have always loved vikings and Norse mythology and this book had me hooked by the very first page! I have never read anything by this author before even though some of her books have been sitting on my shelves for some time so I guess they have moved to the top of my TBR list now! I really like that this book has been quite fast paced but it’s still easy to follow. So many things have happened already and I can’t wait to continue reading!
I wouldn’t go so far as to say I trust Bjorn yet, but he seems like a nice guy, considering his interaction with Freya. Obviously he can be lethal when necessary, but it seems that he somehow like s Freya and wants to protect her.
I think Freya is very cool but I hate the fact that she has to endure so many things while her family has done pretty much nothing to help her with the awful situations she has been before. I totally agreed with Bjorn in that regard. I hope she becomes powerful and forges her own way in the next sections.
How are you enjoying the story so far?
Really enjoying the story so far, I love how fast paced it is. There is definitely no beating around the bush.
Do you trust Bjorn?
Yeah, I feel like he is similar to Ragnar from the Vikings or Utrid from the last kingdom, he kind of gives me those vibes
What do you think of Freya?
She comes across as a strong character, she obviously loves her family to tolerate a marriage that she didn’t want to be in. I feel like she will get stronger as the story progresses.
I can’t wait for Freya to become even stronger! 🧚♀️💜
I have to agree with Bjorn about her sister & his choice of bride. Also, if her father was so concerned she’d fall into the wrong hands, he shouldn’t’ve thrown her to a man she knew was terrible (& turned out to sell her to the 1 man he feared would use her). Ugh. Her family, friend, husband(s), etc all suck. I like Bjorn though. 2 things I noticed: 1st, Bjorn lifted her right hand in the hall – the 1 with the burn marks from Tyr’s fire & the unknown god mark on her palm – not her left with Hlin’s shield on the back, & 2nd, the wording Ylva chose for the ritual “of this blood” could leave room for Bjorn (being of his father’s blood) to be included as family/ bloodlines would often be referred to in this way, so🤞🏼 this loophole can be found.
Daily Q&A:
Q:
1.) How are you enjoying the story so far?
2.) Do you trust Bjorn?
3.) What do you think of Freya?
A:
1.) Yes. I was surprised that I was already enjoying the book by the 1st chapter where I was already laughing at the quips when normally I’d still be debating if the world-building, writing style, etc was to my liking. 8 chapters in, & I haven’t changed my mind yet, so I have high hopes for this book/series.
2.) Yep. Will he probably do something stupid &/or something to cause misunderstandings? Probably, but I feel safe in saying he’ll pull out in the end despite any potential storms that may arise.
3.) I’m liking her. She’s funny, strong, loyal (perhaps where she shouldn’t give a damn, but not that I can fault her anything yet), & she’s far less whiney than a lot of other FMCs I’ve had to endure (even if only to give their character room for growth later), so I hope things keep looking up from here.
I love this book (already finished 🤭) and I love Bjorn and Freya! 😍
They’re now one of my favourite couples! 💜
OMG I loved the interaction between Bjorn and Freya. Did anyone else scream with excitement when Vragi was killed by Freya?
I really love her personality. Do I trust Bjorn? Not yet, but I would let him ruin me anytime.
I’m a bit late but I am loving this story so far!
I definitely trust bjorn but I think he has ulterior motives – perhaps a secret prophecy only he knows about?
Freya is a great main character so far, and I’m excited to follow her journey
I’m very interested in the story and I like the type of magic!
I trust Bjorn with my life! 😂
Freya is a strong character, I like her!
I am loving this book so far!
Oh how I love Freya’s fiery spirit! She is both witty and cunning.
As far as Bjorn, I think he will eventually be someone she can confide in and trust. I think he will have her best interest in mind. I expect to see some major falling from the both of them! Especially since that first scene when she launched a fish at him. There’s nothing like falling in love with the girl who hit you with a fish the first time you met 😂
I love the pace of this book. I’m excited to keep reading!
I’m so glad you’re enjoying the book!🥰
1) I am! Definitely glad I picked this one up!
2) I try not to trust anyone without them proving themselves or getting to know them better.
3) Freya . . . I like her, but I feel like she’s boxing herself in too much and too harshly. I’m definitely looking forward to her breaking free of that and realizing it’s not the only way!