The Ascending Veil plunges readers into a vividly imagined world where ancient deities, Vikings, and modern struggles collide. The story centers on Emilia Benning, the reluctant human host of Andarta, an ancient goddess of war and protection, and her twin sister Clara, host to Eir, a Norse goddess. The story intertwines their contemporary lives with mythic battles, human trafficking themes, and their journey toward reclaiming power and agency in the face of malevolent forces. It’s a tale of bravery, resilience, and divine intervention set against both historical and fantastical backdrops.

I found the writing style engaging and immersive, particularly in the prologue, which sets the tone with the chilling confrontation between Brennhir Torox, a Viking warlord, and Kimbell Murphy, a tribal leader invoking Andarta. The blend of Norse mythology with human struggles is both unique and evocative, drawing me in immediately. The scene where Andarta’s power manifests—glowing runes, ancient trees, and the mysterious dragon Tyrell—is nothing short of cinematic.

What struck me most about this book is how it intertwines themes of family, trauma, and resilience. Emilia’s fierce protectiveness over Clara, especially in their childhood scenes, adds depth and relatability to the characters. For instance, the story of Clara losing her prized beach ball and Emilia’s efforts to console her showcases their bond beautifully. Yet, as the plot progresses into darker territory—like Gabriel’s tragic entanglement in human trafficking—the juxtaposition of innocence and harrowing reality becomes stark.

The pacing of the novel ebbs and flows but thrives in its epic battle sequences and mythological grandeur. The chapters involving Diego’s haunting backstory and his connection to human trafficking were impactful but could have been more seamlessly integrated into the overarching narrative. That said, the authors handle these difficult subjects with a commendable balance of sensitivity and urgency, making the book both a gripping read and a call to awareness.

The Ascending Veil is an ambitious blend of myth, action, and emotional storytelling. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy stories with strong female leads, mythological underpinnings, and a touch of dark reality. If you love exploring ancient gods in modern settings or narratives that delve into resilience against insurmountable odds, this book is for you. I’d recommend it for fans of Rick Riordan’s mythological series—albeit with a much darker, adult-oriented twist.

Pages: 472 | ISBN: 1958487090