Friday, November 21, 2014

Black Ice by Susan Krinard

Series: Midgard #2
384 p.
Publisher: Tor Books
Published: 8/12/14
Source: From publisher for review
New York Times bestselling author Susan Krinard continues the thrilling urban fantasy series that began with Mist in Black Ice. 
Centuries ago, all was lost in the Last Battle when the Norse gods and goddesses went to war. The elves, the giants, and the gods and goddesses themselves were all destroyed, leaving the Valkyrie known as Mist one of the only survivors.
Or so she thought. 
The trickster god Loki has reappeared in San Francisco, and he has big plans for modern-day Earth. With few allies and fewer resources—but the eyes of the gods and goddesses of an old world upon her—it’s up to Mist to stop him before history repeats itself.
My thoughts:
This is the second book in the Midgard series. It follows closely to what happened in the first book, Mist, and this should not be read out of order. If you are looking for action, then this is the series for you. While we had some hints of romance in the first book and it was continued in this book, I didn't feel connected to it. It just didn't quite have the same impact as it did in the first book. Mist's development continues in this story and I have enjoyed how much she has grown. I think this growth will continue as she becomes more comfortable with her power and how powerful she will become.

We also get introduced to a few secondary characters. I hope those get more developed as the series progresses. I can see a lot of potential with some of them. Right now they are all a bit underdeveloped but we just met them and we seemed to be in the midst of some battle when they came onto the scene. There are some animal characters that have personality and I look forward to learning more about them as well.

I give this book 3 stars. It is a good continuation to the big showdown you know is coming. I recommend it to those that enjoy UF with a lean toward fantasy as well as those that know their norse mythology.

20 comments:

  1. Intrigued by your mention of animal characters, this sounds like a promising read.

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    1. Those characters haven't developed yet, but I'm hoping it does!

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  2. I read Mist and enjoyed it over all Melissa, but the Norse mythology was sometimes a touch overwhelming for me. Particularly the names. I'm glad that Mist develops and grows in this second installment, but I'm bummed the romance isn't stronger. You know I love romance:)

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    1. Yea, not as strong as the first but not nonexistent either. :) I think other books I've read in Norse mythos helped me.

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  3. I was on the fence about this too. There were things I liked, and things I absolutely hated (like the total lack of humor). I need something to bring my characters to life and usually a good laugh or two do the trick, but Crinard's sense of humor seems to have been surgically removed. Ah well.

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  4. I don't think I've heard much about this series. Or I haven't been drawn to it at least. I'm sorry this one was a tad disappointing though.

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    1. It was still enjoyable. I'm waiting for the big bad to happen.

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  5. She's one I've thought about trying. Good to know about reading in order!

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    1. Yea, most fantasies you don't want to read out of order. It's just too confusing that way.

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  6. They were just introduced and I hope they get more book time in the coming series. :)

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  7. Have heard of the author, but I don't think this one. Glad that it was good

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  8. I enjoyed this installment slightly less than the previous one as well, Melissa. The romantic aspects were lacking, and way too many new characters were introduced. I felt a little lost.

    Carmel @ Rabid Reads

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  9. This is new to me, ad I am curious but think I will hold off for your assessment of the final book

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  10. sorry you didn't really connect with this one. I really enjoyed it but I'm such a fan of mythology!

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  11. I have this and the first one, but have held off reading them. I think I'll hold off a bit longer. ;)

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  12. I liked the first one but didn't love it so...maybe. But I think I'll hold off until there's a bit more. Might be a good binge, once there are more books out!

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  13. Glad you like the book. The chick on the cover looks really cool.

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  14. I haven't read this yet, but I will check it out now!

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