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The Elsker Saga #1
Elsker
Kristia Tostenson prefers Earl Grey to Grey Goose and book clubs to nightclubs. But when she transfers from her one-stoplight Oregon town to Cardiff University in Wales, she falls in love with Ull Myhr. Her new boyfriend isn’t exactly what she was expecting. His cashmere sweaters and old world charm mask a warrior who's spent an eternity fighting for his very existence. Ull is an honest-to-goodness Norse god — an immortal assassin fated to die at Ragnarok, the battle destined to destroy Asgard and Earth. On top of being marked for death, Asgardian law prohibits Ull from tying his fate to a mortal. No matter what she feels for Ull, Kristia knows she's the one thing he can never have.
With Ragnarok on the horizon and a lunatic haunting her dreams, Kristia has to find a way to convince Ull that breaking the rules is the only way to survive; that defying the order he's sworn to uphold is their only chance to be together. And when someone starts asking the wrong questions, Kristia realizes the crazy visions she's had all her life might be the key to saving their realms... even if they end up costing her her life.
With Ragnarok on the horizon and a lunatic haunting her dreams, Kristia has to find a way to convince Ull that breaking the rules is the only way to survive; that defying the order he's sworn to uphold is their only chance to be together. And when someone starts asking the wrong questions, Kristia realizes the crazy visions she's had all her life might be the key to saving their realms... even if they end up costing her her life.
304 pages, Paperback
First published April 20, 2013
About the author
S.T. Bende
44 books557 followersBefore finding domestic bliss in suburbia, S.T. Bende lived in Manhattan Beach (where she became overly fond of Peet’s Coffee) and studied Shakespeare in Europe… where she became overly fond of McVitie's cookies.
Her Scandinavian heritage and a very patient Norwegian teacher inspired her YA Norse fantasy series' (Viking Academy, Ære Saga, Elsker Saga, and Alfheim Academy). And her deep love of a galaxy far, far away led to her writing children's books for the Star Wars franchise. As an experienced IP writer, she's written multiple books published by Disney-Lucasfilm Press and its licensees, and looks to expand into additional beloved IP projects.
When she's not creating stories, S.T. dreams of skiing on Jotunheim and Hoth.
Find S.T. on her website (www.stbende.com), her newsletter (http://smarturl.it/BendeNewsletter), or on Twitter @stbende.
Her Scandinavian heritage and a very patient Norwegian teacher inspired her YA Norse fantasy series' (Viking Academy, Ære Saga, Elsker Saga, and Alfheim Academy). And her deep love of a galaxy far, far away led to her writing children's books for the Star Wars franchise. As an experienced IP writer, she's written multiple books published by Disney-Lucasfilm Press and its licensees, and looks to expand into additional beloved IP projects.
When she's not creating stories, S.T. dreams of skiing on Jotunheim and Hoth.
Find S.T. on her website (www.stbende.com), her newsletter (http://smarturl.it/BendeNewsletter), or on Twitter @stbende.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 490 reviews
November 10, 2015
I don't care if authors want to write a romance free of sex; I've read many of them that are beautifully done. But if you're going to be sex shaming and slut shaming (like this book) to achieve your "clean" romance, that I don't like. It's lazy, throwing around terms like slut and virtue to summaryly dismiss the sex issue out of hand, and it's not necessary.
This bills itself as NA, but reads like a YA. I thought it was Twilight fan fiction a few times while reading.
I gave it a chance because I like Norse mythology, and because I thought it wouldn't be YA, but suffice it to say it wasn't what I look for in a fantasy romance.
This bills itself as NA, but reads like a YA. I thought it was Twilight fan fiction a few times while reading.
I gave it a chance because I like Norse mythology, and because I thought it wouldn't be YA, but suffice it to say it wasn't what I look for in a fantasy romance.
May 28, 2020
Nope. Not for me. The plot ran too slow, the characters seemed very unrealistic and it has way too much of a Twilight vibe. Not my thing.
August 24, 2016
I liked the integration of Norse mythology, but the execution fell flat of the potential for me. I could not stop rolling my eyes at the insta-love. The MC was a classic stereotypical Mary-Sue character and had a too-perfect-to-be-a-real-person love interest. The "I just met this person but I am so in love with them that I want to throw away the rest of my life and sacrifice everything" thing made me want to gag and laugh at the same time. So many cliches that I lost count. To be honest, I definitely would not have picked this up if it was not free. I actually like the mythology and the Ragnarok plot and I'm interested enough in that plot to want to find out what happens, but I don't know if I would be able to stomach the ridiculous insta-love and the unrealistic characters to be able to see out that plot. And I'm definitely not going to pay the $2.99 to read the next book, so I think the story ends here for me.
July 21, 2013
I was fortunate enough to "meet" ST while we were both campaigning for our guys in the NA Crush Tournament. Bianca and I are advocates for Kellan Kyle from Thoughtless and ST, of course, was Team Ull! She's super sweet and was generous enough to get me a copy of Elsker! Reading the post that his advocates wrote up for the tournament had me sold on him and I was really excited to read this one! It did not disappoint one bit!
Sometimes when reading books that have a lot of mythology woven into them, it's easy to get overwhelmed with it. At least for me. This wasn't the case with Elsker. There was just enough to keep my attention and create a really interesting and exciting story, but not so much that I had trouble wrapping my head around it, especially considering that I knew nothing about Norse Mythology going into this novel. Well, unless you count drooling over Chris Hemsworth as Thor.
As far as Ull goes, I loved him. I loved his chivalry, his protective nature, and his romantic side. I especially like his tight sweaters and church waffles (he eats them with jam, and he shares... you'll see). I also loved Kristia. She was real and relatable and extremely brave, the kind of girl I could see myself being friends with. As far as the supporting characters go, they were all wonderful. I was especially fond of Inga, so I'm really excited to start reading the prequel, Tur.
I won't go into too much detail about the plot because I would hate to spoil anything, but I will say that there are quite a few little surprises! There are laugh-out-loud moments and I was pulled right in from the very first page. This book was nearly impossible to put down and I'm dying for the sequel. There isn't a cliffhanger in this one, but it will definitely leave you wanting much, much more. The next book in this series, Endre, is due out in September!
Sometimes when reading books that have a lot of mythology woven into them, it's easy to get overwhelmed with it. At least for me. This wasn't the case with Elsker. There was just enough to keep my attention and create a really interesting and exciting story, but not so much that I had trouble wrapping my head around it, especially considering that I knew nothing about Norse Mythology going into this novel. Well, unless you count drooling over Chris Hemsworth as Thor.
As far as Ull goes, I loved him. I loved his chivalry, his protective nature, and his romantic side. I especially like his tight sweaters and church waffles (he eats them with jam, and he shares... you'll see). I also loved Kristia. She was real and relatable and extremely brave, the kind of girl I could see myself being friends with. As far as the supporting characters go, they were all wonderful. I was especially fond of Inga, so I'm really excited to start reading the prequel, Tur.
I won't go into too much detail about the plot because I would hate to spoil anything, but I will say that there are quite a few little surprises! There are laugh-out-loud moments and I was pulled right in from the very first page. This book was nearly impossible to put down and I'm dying for the sequel. There isn't a cliffhanger in this one, but it will definitely leave you wanting much, much more. The next book in this series, Endre, is due out in September!
July 13, 2017
Glad it was free but this was poorly written and a bit to immature and YA for my preference. Very cardboard like characters and plot. Generic feeling from beginning to end. Not a series I will continue.
April 5, 2015
I came across this book in the 'Gods and Mortals' collection and it intrigued me, so much so that it jumped to the top my reading list.
Kristia Tostenson has always felt like she never quite fit, her parents didn't want to be bothered by her so she was raised by her grandmother, odd visions at odd times have resulted in car accidents and people believing she's weird. Taking the chance of a fresh break and a fresh start Kristia heads to Cardiff for a year where she meets the most perfect man in the world, Ull Myhr, well by perfect I mean incredibly out of this world good looking, not anything else since he seems to spend his time glaring at her when she's done absolutely nothing wrong.
Ull can't believe it's true, he's met the love of his life and now he doesn't know what to do, there's a lot more to Ull than Kristia could ever realise but death is on the horizon so they may not get the chance for her to even find out, but while Ull has a secret Kristia has one too and hers may be the key to saving them.
I liked the idea behind this and the first half was good but if I'm being honest it kind of stalled a bit halfway through and sort of plodded towards the end but while there's more books to come I have to decide if I want to read them,ood idea and a good start but....
January 20, 2015
Um, yeah, well...huh. This was sorta like a Norse inspired Twilight with extra sugar on top, I have to agree with some of the other reviewers there. It was sooo slow and too ooey-gooey sugary-sweet at times. Lots of good ideas and plot-lines, but the execution could have been tighter and waaay more realistic.
I'm still left with questions about the man-elf that could be intriguing to resolve, and I would like to see them win, but I wonder--does the writing get better in the subsequent books? I guess there is only one way to find out. Onward and upward to book two. Wish me luck...
I'm still left with questions about the man-elf that could be intriguing to resolve, and I would like to see them win, but I wonder--does the writing get better in the subsequent books? I guess there is only one way to find out. Onward and upward to book two. Wish me luck...
January 24, 2016
3.5 A light and enjoyable YA read, pretty well written with decent editing. Definitely a bit of a plus.
December 27, 2019
Now this freebie I thought I was going to enjoy. The cover was lovely and the reviews on Amazon were generous. I was so wrong.
The heroine is the kind of character I hate. The ones that meet a guy and immediately fall in love with him enough to sacrifice everything. The insta-love set my teeth on edge. Ull was nothing to write home about either. He was dull and boring. Even the pacing was off, there's a war on the horizon but you wouldn't know that the way they were acting. Definitely not interested in continuing the series.
The heroine is the kind of character I hate. The ones that meet a guy and immediately fall in love with him enough to sacrifice everything. The insta-love set my teeth on edge. Ull was nothing to write home about either. He was dull and boring. Even the pacing was off, there's a war on the horizon but you wouldn't know that the way they were acting. Definitely not interested in continuing the series.
January 21, 2016
3.5
I lived in Norway for a summer and have been drawn to their mythology and Vikings ever since. I was excited when I came across this one, it sounded just like something I would like. It’s a mix of contemporary romance and Norse mythology.
Kristia is recently graduated from high school and attending a local college (I wish her character had been a little older). She is bored with her life and wants to do something adventurous for a change and to stop being the town freak . She decides to enroll in a study abroad program her college offers in England. Once she arrives she makes quick friends with her new roommates (it was actually refreshing that there wasn’t a lot of girl drama and she made friends easily) and of course attracts the attention of the hottest most unobtainable guy on campus. Insert: *eye roll*
The romance started out good, but kind of fizzled out for me. While the romance tended to be the main focus, I felt it was a little shallow. It progressed a little too quickly and I got bored with the lovey-dovey stuff. I much prefer a slow build up with some nice tension. Where we can really get to see and feel them fall in love. Towards the end it felt like their conversations revolved around One Thing. Over and over. It felt repetitive to me, it got old having them constantly reassuring each other, etc. And really, if the romance had been built up a little more I think I would have been behind their decision more. As it was, I just kept thinking they hardly know each other to be making this kind of life-changing commitment. I also felt Kristia’s role in everything seemed a little too convenient. It’s been done in so many paranormal books (i.e. boring, unnoticed heroine ends up being the strongest, bravest, prettiest girl in the word…oh and is the only one that can save the day).
I did like the overall story, I mean if you enjoy the new Thor movies, you’ll probably get a kick out of this book. I enjoyed the setting(Why does it take place in Wales and not Norway??) and I did like the characters. I admit, it does have similarities to other paranormal books out there, but did stand on its own and I liked the focus on Norse myths and I’m excited to see them play a bigger role in later books.
Overall, it was a fun book and kept me reading. I liked it enough that I’ll probably continue the series. I just think the characters, romance and story could have been developed a little better.
Content
Romance: Clean, mild innuendo
Language: Mild, a few OMGs
Violence: None
Religious: None
I lived in Norway for a summer and have been drawn to their mythology and Vikings ever since. I was excited when I came across this one, it sounded just like something I would like. It’s a mix of contemporary romance and Norse mythology.
Kristia is recently graduated from high school and attending a local college (I wish her character had been a little older). She is bored with her life and wants to do something adventurous for a change and to stop being the town freak . She decides to enroll in a study abroad program her college offers in England. Once she arrives she makes quick friends with her new roommates (it was actually refreshing that there wasn’t a lot of girl drama and she made friends easily) and of course attracts the attention of the hottest most unobtainable guy on campus. Insert: *eye roll*
The romance started out good, but kind of fizzled out for me. While the romance tended to be the main focus, I felt it was a little shallow. It progressed a little too quickly and I got bored with the lovey-dovey stuff. I much prefer a slow build up with some nice tension. Where we can really get to see and feel them fall in love. Towards the end it felt like their conversations revolved around One Thing. Over and over. It felt repetitive to me, it got old having them constantly reassuring each other, etc. And really, if the romance had been built up a little more I think I would have been behind their decision more. As it was, I just kept thinking they hardly know each other to be making this kind of life-changing commitment. I also felt Kristia’s role in everything seemed a little too convenient. It’s been done in so many paranormal books (i.e. boring, unnoticed heroine ends up being the strongest, bravest, prettiest girl in the word…oh and is the only one that can save the day).
I did like the overall story, I mean if you enjoy the new Thor movies, you’ll probably get a kick out of this book. I enjoyed the setting(Why does it take place in Wales and not Norway??) and I did like the characters. I admit, it does have similarities to other paranormal books out there, but did stand on its own and I liked the focus on Norse myths and I’m excited to see them play a bigger role in later books.
Overall, it was a fun book and kept me reading. I liked it enough that I’ll probably continue the series. I just think the characters, romance and story could have been developed a little better.
Content
Romance: Clean, mild innuendo
Language: Mild, a few OMGs
Violence: None
Religious: None
July 6, 2014
Oh man, I feel awful because I really wanted to like this book. I LOVE mythology and I was excited by all the five star ratings. However, it didn't work for me. The characters don't feel like real people (and don't get me wrong, I love and read fantasy all the time so "what" they are has nothing to do with their relatability and depth unless it isn't done well). The dialogue is especially unrealistic and superficial. I would expect someone that's lived for hundreds of years to be more intelligent, a little more morose, definitely more mature, a little more of anything than what Ull is. He is more boy than man. Kristia also reads like a little girl, which was more understandable considering that she's only eighteen, but I still couldn't like her. I just felt like I was reading a light book about vapid little kids, essentially, and couldn't in any way buy that they were Norse gods and Seers and all that.
July 2, 2013
I first heard of Elsker by S.T. Bende when one of my fellow Aussie Owned and Read girls was signed by Entranced Publishing. I must admit it wasn’t a high priority on my TBR, but after Aussie Owned and Read became an advocate for Ull in the NA Crush Tourney, I thought I better check it out.
Elsker is a little different to anything I’ve read in the past. I love books that are centred on mythology, which is why I’m a huge fan of the Percy Jackson series, but I’ve never read anything containing Norse mythology before. The extent of my knowledge when it comes to these gods is checking out Chris Hemsworth in Thor and The Avengers.
Elsker is a great mix of romance and mythology. Kristia has visions which have labelled her a bit crazy in her small, one-stoplight town. She decides to spend her last year of university abroad and heads to Wales where she meets the god of winter, Ull. Things get off to a rocky start between them, but before long they are putty in each other’s hands. I wish I was Ull’s putty!
The Norse mythology is seamlessly woven throughout the story, and neither the romance nor the mythology element is overbearing. The only thing I had a little trouble with was Kristia’s acceptance of Ull’s godliness. But I figured she was weird enough with having her own visions, who was she to judge a guy that just told her he was a god?
Ull, although his mood swung like an out of control pendulum, is the perfect gentleman, and I love how S.T. Bende has built his character—and all the other characters—in Elsker. Thor in particular amused me, and Gunnar and Inga were a great duo.
Elsker is a quick and enjoyable read. The story ends in a good place, but it has certainly left me wanting more of Ull and his world. I'm itching for the epic love and the epic battle.
Now, I'm off to try my hand at that waffle recipe.
Elsker is a little different to anything I’ve read in the past. I love books that are centred on mythology, which is why I’m a huge fan of the Percy Jackson series, but I’ve never read anything containing Norse mythology before. The extent of my knowledge when it comes to these gods is checking out Chris Hemsworth in Thor and The Avengers.
Elsker is a great mix of romance and mythology. Kristia has visions which have labelled her a bit crazy in her small, one-stoplight town. She decides to spend her last year of university abroad and heads to Wales where she meets the god of winter, Ull. Things get off to a rocky start between them, but before long they are putty in each other’s hands. I wish I was Ull’s putty!
The Norse mythology is seamlessly woven throughout the story, and neither the romance nor the mythology element is overbearing. The only thing I had a little trouble with was Kristia’s acceptance of Ull’s godliness. But I figured she was weird enough with having her own visions, who was she to judge a guy that just told her he was a god?
Ull, although his mood swung like an out of control pendulum, is the perfect gentleman, and I love how S.T. Bende has built his character—and all the other characters—in Elsker. Thor in particular amused me, and Gunnar and Inga were a great duo.
Elsker is a quick and enjoyable read. The story ends in a good place, but it has certainly left me wanting more of Ull and his world. I'm itching for the epic love and the epic battle.
Now, I'm off to try my hand at that waffle recipe.
July 31, 2016
Hei, Hei Ull. Nice to meet ya!
Sigh - Ull, the Norse God of Winter, is a true hero - in every sense. Not only is he a warrior, but he is also a gentleman. I mean, who can resist a man who insists on opening your car door, makes waffles for breakfast and - oh, by the way - plans on saving Earth from destruction.
What a lovely mix of mythology with our modern world. Not knowing much about Norse mythology was not a problem. The stories I need to know are interweaved so well, it makes me feel like I already knew the facts.
Kristia is a relatable character. She is just the normal girl-next-door (so we think), who happens to capture the love of one strong, tall, blonde and handsome man. I love Kristia's reactions as the story unfolds. It's very typical to how I would behave, so I laughed right beside her in her angst and perils.
Bende does a fantastic job on all her secondary characters. From gods to students, they are fun, lively and add to the storyline.
As a romance reader first, I enjoyed the sweet love story between Ull and Kristia. My heart actually pitter-pattered with all their hot kisses which is a surprise for someone who is used to reading the "behind the bedroom door" scenes.
In the end, I'm so excited to have picked up this book and cannot wait for the next in the series. It was one of those reads that you can't stop thinking about once you put it down. I know I'll read it again and again as I wait for the Endre - the continuance to the novel.
Sigh - Ull, the Norse God of Winter, is a true hero - in every sense. Not only is he a warrior, but he is also a gentleman. I mean, who can resist a man who insists on opening your car door, makes waffles for breakfast and - oh, by the way - plans on saving Earth from destruction.
What a lovely mix of mythology with our modern world. Not knowing much about Norse mythology was not a problem. The stories I need to know are interweaved so well, it makes me feel like I already knew the facts.
Kristia is a relatable character. She is just the normal girl-next-door (so we think), who happens to capture the love of one strong, tall, blonde and handsome man. I love Kristia's reactions as the story unfolds. It's very typical to how I would behave, so I laughed right beside her in her angst and perils.
Bende does a fantastic job on all her secondary characters. From gods to students, they are fun, lively and add to the storyline.
As a romance reader first, I enjoyed the sweet love story between Ull and Kristia. My heart actually pitter-pattered with all their hot kisses which is a surprise for someone who is used to reading the "behind the bedroom door" scenes.
In the end, I'm so excited to have picked up this book and cannot wait for the next in the series. It was one of those reads that you can't stop thinking about once you put it down. I know I'll read it again and again as I wait for the Endre - the continuance to the novel.
June 22, 2013
How can I resist a book that makes me hear that old love song, God of Thunder? Ok, it's not that God of Thunder, but still.
This book has everything from romance, to Norse Mythology to waffels. We meet Kristia Tostenson, the girl who will tame the heart of a God, Ull Myhr!
The Norse mythology is really well woven in. It's not so heavy so that you can't get your head around it, and it all lends it'self well to the main plot. It's a great read that leaves you wanting more. Not to mention hungry for waffles. Looking forward to the second in the series!
This book has everything from romance, to Norse Mythology to waffels. We meet Kristia Tostenson, the girl who will tame the heart of a God, Ull Myhr!
The Norse mythology is really well woven in. It's not so heavy so that you can't get your head around it, and it all lends it'self well to the main plot. It's a great read that leaves you wanting more. Not to mention hungry for waffles. Looking forward to the second in the series!
July 16, 2013
The book started off from an interesting position--we're entering a paranormal romance with Scandinavian mythology for the leads. Unfortunately, the book just wasn't paced well enough to make you overlook the silliness--our heroine accepts her boyfriend is mythical faster than Bella took in Edward Cullen's vampirism. She then, in classic Mary Sue fashion, pitches herself as the answer for the gods' current problems. Interesting idea, but just not strong enough to be executed successfully.
September 9, 2017
I'm so delighted with this book! S.T. Bende is currently a new favorite author! I blew through the series in two days and loved every minute of it! The characters, Kristia and Ull were fantastic to learn about! Even the supporting characters had a great place in the story. I couldn't stop after this book, and was quick to read the next one! Five glittery stars!!!!
December 29, 2018
A fun, easy to read story, but overall below average plot-wise.
July 7, 2018
Kristia Tostenson is from a small town in Oregon. Kristia worries that she'll just following along with what is expected and marry one of the few suitable males after finishing university and settling down to a boring life without adventure. Kristia decides that she wants more and takes a leap of faith and enrolls in Cardiff university for a year abroad and thus begins an adventure she could never have predicted, even in the weird dreams and visions she's had over the years.
When Kristia first meets Ull Myher, her world stands still. Ull is not only the most beautiful man she's ever seen, he's actually a Norse god. The two share a wild wind romance but always hanging over their head is the fact that Ragnarok hasn't happened yet. It's difficult to make plans for the future when the world could come crashing down at any moment. When it is announced that Baldr will die soon, thus setting off the beginning of the war that brings an end to the Asgardians, Kristia knows that she has a decision to make. Will she flee and return to her old life or will she marry Ull and fight side by side against the enemies of Asgard.
I picked up Elsker because I'm an absolute sucker for any story with Norse mythology as its basis. I even over looked the fact that I'm not overly a fan of YA to give this book a chance. Unfortunately, as it turns out, I should have left this one on the shelf. Elsker reads like Twilight fanfic. I'm absolutely positive that S.T. Bende needs to pay Stephanie Meyer royalties for this hot mess masquerading as a tale about Norse Gods.
Kristia is the same kind of blank slate that Bella was in Twilight. It's clear that S.T. Bende wrote her this way so that any white woman could envision herself in this role. There's absolutely nothing interesting about her whatsoever which makes it all the more astounding that Ull manages to scrape together attributes he admires, making her worthy of being his wife. Kristia is clumsy and is either always tripping or is in danger of tripping. Does that remind you of anyone? She's also incredibly insecure and talks constantly about how plain she is and worries about whether or not she's actually good enough to date or even marry Ull. If that were not enough, Kristia also has a puritanical streak and some pretty archaic ideas about modesty and sexual chastity that are extremely outdated coming from anyone who wasn't forced into a purity ball as a teenager. There's also the issue that throughout the novel, Bende cannot seem to decide what age Kristia is. In parts of the novel she's 20 and in others she's 18. Given that Elsker spans less than nine months, such a discrepancy makes absolutely no sense.
As a protagonist, Kristia is simply annoying. Kristia deems all the women around her to be more beautiful than her and more graceful. It's all she bloody talks about. Given that there are only three male characters, Kristia feels inadequate a lot. For all of the female characters in this book, you'd think that Elsker would pass the Bechdel Test but you'd be wrong. The women may talk briefly about their career ambitions but generally speaking, the conversation always seems to revolve around Kristia's relationship with Ull, or how hot Ull is, or how Kristia wants to become a God so that Ull doesn't have to give up his immortality to be with her. I know that they are sophomore University students but they read instead like 14 year old girls excited about a game of spin the bottle.
Ull, is Bende's version of Edward, and is impossibly old and his language is peppered with archaic phrases. Ull is Asgard's top warrior and the God of winter. Ull tries to calm Kristia's fears that she's unworthy to wed him by revealing that as a warrior, he has killed countless people. Even though this happened in battle, it should be enough to at least give Kristia pause but in true Queen Amidala fashion, Kristia doesn't care that her man literally has blood pouring from his hands.
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When Kristia first meets Ull Myher, her world stands still. Ull is not only the most beautiful man she's ever seen, he's actually a Norse god. The two share a wild wind romance but always hanging over their head is the fact that Ragnarok hasn't happened yet. It's difficult to make plans for the future when the world could come crashing down at any moment. When it is announced that Baldr will die soon, thus setting off the beginning of the war that brings an end to the Asgardians, Kristia knows that she has a decision to make. Will she flee and return to her old life or will she marry Ull and fight side by side against the enemies of Asgard.
I picked up Elsker because I'm an absolute sucker for any story with Norse mythology as its basis. I even over looked the fact that I'm not overly a fan of YA to give this book a chance. Unfortunately, as it turns out, I should have left this one on the shelf. Elsker reads like Twilight fanfic. I'm absolutely positive that S.T. Bende needs to pay Stephanie Meyer royalties for this hot mess masquerading as a tale about Norse Gods.
Kristia is the same kind of blank slate that Bella was in Twilight. It's clear that S.T. Bende wrote her this way so that any white woman could envision herself in this role. There's absolutely nothing interesting about her whatsoever which makes it all the more astounding that Ull manages to scrape together attributes he admires, making her worthy of being his wife. Kristia is clumsy and is either always tripping or is in danger of tripping. Does that remind you of anyone? She's also incredibly insecure and talks constantly about how plain she is and worries about whether or not she's actually good enough to date or even marry Ull. If that were not enough, Kristia also has a puritanical streak and some pretty archaic ideas about modesty and sexual chastity that are extremely outdated coming from anyone who wasn't forced into a purity ball as a teenager. There's also the issue that throughout the novel, Bende cannot seem to decide what age Kristia is. In parts of the novel she's 20 and in others she's 18. Given that Elsker spans less than nine months, such a discrepancy makes absolutely no sense.
As a protagonist, Kristia is simply annoying. Kristia deems all the women around her to be more beautiful than her and more graceful. It's all she bloody talks about. Given that there are only three male characters, Kristia feels inadequate a lot. For all of the female characters in this book, you'd think that Elsker would pass the Bechdel Test but you'd be wrong. The women may talk briefly about their career ambitions but generally speaking, the conversation always seems to revolve around Kristia's relationship with Ull, or how hot Ull is, or how Kristia wants to become a God so that Ull doesn't have to give up his immortality to be with her. I know that they are sophomore University students but they read instead like 14 year old girls excited about a game of spin the bottle.
Ull, is Bende's version of Edward, and is impossibly old and his language is peppered with archaic phrases. Ull is Asgard's top warrior and the God of winter. Ull tries to calm Kristia's fears that she's unworthy to wed him by revealing that as a warrior, he has killed countless people. Even though this happened in battle, it should be enough to at least give Kristia pause but in true Queen Amidala fashion, Kristia doesn't care that her man literally has blood pouring from his hands.
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April 15, 2014
I got a copy in exchange for an honest review
I am so glad I got this book for review. After reading the prequel I couldn’t wait to start Elsker, the prequel gives the reader some extra information, which isn’t nessecary, but I liked having the background information. So I would certainly suggest picking up the prequel first.
This book start off when Kristia is still living in Oregon, US. I liked that we first got a sense of her past life and how she made the descision to go to Wales and study there. After that there is a time skip and the story goes on when she arrives in the UK. The beginning of the book really has a NA contemporary feel to it. Kristia goes to a university and meets her two awesome roommates. There are some hints to the mythology aspect, but the mythology doesn’t get really much attention until around halfway of the book. I did like getting to know Kristia and reading how she felt in love with Ull, before all the mythology started to surface.
The pace of the story was a bit slow at times, but there where also some fast paced parts. I wanted to keep reading and find out more about the characters and what was going to happen to them. There are some surprising twists and turns, especially towards the end of the story. The beginning is a bit predictable, but still very enjoyable.
The characters are really done well, I got a good sense of who they are and most characters have a few characteristics that make them feel like a real person, for example Veronica and her obsession with fashion. I really liked Kristia, she is a strong character and she can be very determined and stubborn sometimes. Her roommates are also great, they don’t play a huge part, but still there are a few great scenes with them and I liked how they were always ready to help Kristia. At first I didn’t really like Ull, I liked what I learned about him in the prequel, but at the start of this book he is being a complete jerk. Luckily that changes later on in the story. I also didn’t really feel the romance between Ull and Kristia at first, sometimes it felt like their relationship moved a bit too fast and on other points it moved really slow. Later on in the story I did start to feel the romance more, they are just perfect together and there is almost nothing they wouldn’t do for each other. Ull can be a bit too protective sometimes, but overall I did like him.
I always have a slight problem with mythology books, because I have so little knowledge of mythology I am always feeling like I am missing something. Luckily for me in this book there is quite some explantion about the myths, so at least I learned enough about the important parts. There isn’t that much world building in this book yet. Because the mythology only starts to play an important role later on in the story. The important things are explained, but not much more, I really hope we get to learn more about Asgard in the next book. I liked that this book focussed on Norse mythology instead of Greek, because so far most of the mythology books I have read are about Greek mythology. So reading about Norse mythology was a nice change.
To conclude: I really enjoyed this book.The characters are great and I liked that there was some explanation about the mythology in this book, so I didn’t feel like I was missing too much. At first I didn’t really feel the romance, but this changed later on in the story. Also the first half mainly focussed on student life and the mythology only starts to play a big part later on in the story. This book is a great begin of this series and I am looking forward to the next book already!
I am so glad I got this book for review. After reading the prequel I couldn’t wait to start Elsker, the prequel gives the reader some extra information, which isn’t nessecary, but I liked having the background information. So I would certainly suggest picking up the prequel first.
This book start off when Kristia is still living in Oregon, US. I liked that we first got a sense of her past life and how she made the descision to go to Wales and study there. After that there is a time skip and the story goes on when she arrives in the UK. The beginning of the book really has a NA contemporary feel to it. Kristia goes to a university and meets her two awesome roommates. There are some hints to the mythology aspect, but the mythology doesn’t get really much attention until around halfway of the book. I did like getting to know Kristia and reading how she felt in love with Ull, before all the mythology started to surface.
The pace of the story was a bit slow at times, but there where also some fast paced parts. I wanted to keep reading and find out more about the characters and what was going to happen to them. There are some surprising twists and turns, especially towards the end of the story. The beginning is a bit predictable, but still very enjoyable.
The characters are really done well, I got a good sense of who they are and most characters have a few characteristics that make them feel like a real person, for example Veronica and her obsession with fashion. I really liked Kristia, she is a strong character and she can be very determined and stubborn sometimes. Her roommates are also great, they don’t play a huge part, but still there are a few great scenes with them and I liked how they were always ready to help Kristia. At first I didn’t really like Ull, I liked what I learned about him in the prequel, but at the start of this book he is being a complete jerk. Luckily that changes later on in the story. I also didn’t really feel the romance between Ull and Kristia at first, sometimes it felt like their relationship moved a bit too fast and on other points it moved really slow. Later on in the story I did start to feel the romance more, they are just perfect together and there is almost nothing they wouldn’t do for each other. Ull can be a bit too protective sometimes, but overall I did like him.
I always have a slight problem with mythology books, because I have so little knowledge of mythology I am always feeling like I am missing something. Luckily for me in this book there is quite some explantion about the myths, so at least I learned enough about the important parts. There isn’t that much world building in this book yet. Because the mythology only starts to play an important role later on in the story. The important things are explained, but not much more, I really hope we get to learn more about Asgard in the next book. I liked that this book focussed on Norse mythology instead of Greek, because so far most of the mythology books I have read are about Greek mythology. So reading about Norse mythology was a nice change.
To conclude: I really enjoyed this book.The characters are great and I liked that there was some explanation about the mythology in this book, so I didn’t feel like I was missing too much. At first I didn’t really feel the romance, but this changed later on in the story. Also the first half mainly focussed on student life and the mythology only starts to play a big part later on in the story. This book is a great begin of this series and I am looking forward to the next book already!
December 11, 2017
I really wanted to love this? I went into this because I'm super interested in Norse mythology (read: Thor and the Marvel movies), and it started off really promising, and just got tiring as it went on. The main character, Kristia, is sort of one note when she could've been so much more. I wanted to love her, too! She's cute, she's ballsy, she has powers! But she seemingly has no interests outside of Norse mythology, all her initial interests (art???), sort of went straight out of the window the minute Ull came into the story. She also didn't have a single conversation with her friends that wasn't about boys. And I'm guessing Victoria and Emma won't feature in the other books, given that they too seemed to go out the window as soon as Inga, Kristia's cool Norse goddess friend stepped in. They reminded me a lot of Bella and Alice from the Twilight series, actually. The initial romance was cute in places but unbelievably rushed? I kind of just ended up rushing through the ending. I loved the premise of this but it really fell flat for me.
June 6, 2014
As an avid fan of the Marvel movies, including both Thors and the Avengers, I love that this story is includes a great deal about Norse mythology. It’s a fresh take on the paranormal genre. When Kristia decides to spend her sophomore year of college abroad, she settles on Cardiff University in Wales where she falls for the hottest guy in school, and quite possibly the planet. He has an unusual name, Ull Myhr. And as it turns out, he is Thor’s stepson and his destiny is not pretty. But, you can’t help who you fall in love with and Kristia has some tough decisions to make.
Plot
Considering the whole God/Asgard/Ragnarok thing, the story has surprisingly little action. It’s more a love story than an action/adventure, but the love story is sweet. There’s a generous helping of heat, particularly for a story that is completely devoid of sex, which just further proves that new adult fiction doesn’t need sex to be steamy. But even without adventure or sex, the plot moves at a good pace.
There are a couple of plot points that felt rushed. For instance, Kristia seems to accept Ull’s true identity pretty easily. She says she doesn’t, but not enough attention is paid to her coming to terms with the reality and fate of the guy she loves. The other is how quickly she seems to fall in love with him. I’m not opposed to stories of love at first sight, but this doesn’t feel like that either. Rather she falls in instant attraction with him, but she seems to go from being intoxicated with him, to making her entire world about him without any additional development. It doesn’t make the story implausible, but I think it would have been more enjoyable to watch it unfold at a slower pace.
Characters
The characters are interesting enough. Ull especially seems well fleshed out. I love the way he talks without using any contractions. He sounds exactly like you would expect the stepson of Thor to speak. The two flatmates Kristia meets in Wales are delightfully British and Ull’s Asgardian friends are equally fun. Kristia is the only character I’m unsure of at this point. She doesn’t come across as especially deep or developed. Since the story is from her point of view, I wanted more from her. I wanted to see the deep wound she must overcome. Sure, her parents checked out a long time ago and she was raised by her grandmother, but it doesn’t seem to really impact her that much. She doesn’t seem damaged as a result. But it does play in nicely with the bigger plot point of the impending implosion of the universe.
Bottom Line
Elsker tells an interesting tale, but feels almost like it’s a prequel to whatever happens in the Elsker Saga #2. The romance is well done and important to the overarching plot. But I do feel like it’s lack action. That said, I will definitely be reading the next book in the saga. I believe that’s when this story is really going to take off.
Plot
Considering the whole God/Asgard/Ragnarok thing, the story has surprisingly little action. It’s more a love story than an action/adventure, but the love story is sweet. There’s a generous helping of heat, particularly for a story that is completely devoid of sex, which just further proves that new adult fiction doesn’t need sex to be steamy. But even without adventure or sex, the plot moves at a good pace.
There are a couple of plot points that felt rushed. For instance, Kristia seems to accept Ull’s true identity pretty easily. She says she doesn’t, but not enough attention is paid to her coming to terms with the reality and fate of the guy she loves. The other is how quickly she seems to fall in love with him. I’m not opposed to stories of love at first sight, but this doesn’t feel like that either. Rather she falls in instant attraction with him, but she seems to go from being intoxicated with him, to making her entire world about him without any additional development. It doesn’t make the story implausible, but I think it would have been more enjoyable to watch it unfold at a slower pace.
Characters
The characters are interesting enough. Ull especially seems well fleshed out. I love the way he talks without using any contractions. He sounds exactly like you would expect the stepson of Thor to speak. The two flatmates Kristia meets in Wales are delightfully British and Ull’s Asgardian friends are equally fun. Kristia is the only character I’m unsure of at this point. She doesn’t come across as especially deep or developed. Since the story is from her point of view, I wanted more from her. I wanted to see the deep wound she must overcome. Sure, her parents checked out a long time ago and she was raised by her grandmother, but it doesn’t seem to really impact her that much. She doesn’t seem damaged as a result. But it does play in nicely with the bigger plot point of the impending implosion of the universe.
Bottom Line
Elsker tells an interesting tale, but feels almost like it’s a prequel to whatever happens in the Elsker Saga #2. The romance is well done and important to the overarching plot. But I do feel like it’s lack action. That said, I will definitely be reading the next book in the saga. I believe that’s when this story is really going to take off.
May 29, 2014
First of all I love the cover of this book, I mean look at Ull there, he just oozes bad ass Norse God does he not, I can feel my self turning in to a puddle with that piercing icy glare *fans herself* , ok sorry losing it there, Kristia is so gorgeous too, when I think of a Scandinavian woman, she is pretty much what I picture.
So following on from my review the other day of Tur the prequel novella to this series which I really loved does Elsker live up to its awesomeness?
Kristia is an American, living in the back end of boring town, USA, she has never been one for living life dangerously but she decides to up sticks and transfer to Cardiff University in Wales, helped in her decision by her hidden talent (is it a talent or a hindrance?) which is she suffers visions and she has one which seals her decision to move there.
She moves in with Emma and Victoria who could not be more different than Earl Grey tea total Kristia but she soon loses her demure attitude when she meets the walking Norse blonde stubby sexy beefcake that is Ull, sorry I should not objectify him my apologies to men's lib!
She does not know what his problem is, one minute he looks at her like he is furious with her and the next minute he is being all sweetness and light with her. But of course as we found out in Tur, Kristia has been named in the prophecy that tells of her being Ull's soul mate, which Kristia at the moment knows nothing about.
The relationship between Kristia and Ull can be romantic at times, down right sexy at other times and occasionally frustrating, I did feel he was letting down the bad boys of this worlds by the deluge of flowers that he sent to Kristia but then I am just jealous the last time I got flowers from my Ull was 18 years ago!
Their relationship also moves quite fast and before we know it she has totally thrown her Earl Grey to the side and goes with Ull to his house for the weekend. But will he tell her more about himself?, she is beginning to put two and two together, especially since he was absent during part of her Norse Mythology class, the part that talked about Ullr, well to find that out you will need to read it yourself - no spoilers!
This really is an enjoyable book, I love the fact it is scattered with Norwegian phrases, I have never used the translation setting on my Kindle so much, I also love learning more about the mythology of the Norse Gods.
My only downside was sometimes Ull could come across as being a little stilted as he talked but I am putting this down to the fact that English is not his first language.
If you enjoy your romance with a bit of mythology or indeed paranormal thrown in then you will love this!
Elsker is awarded 4 out of 5
So following on from my review the other day of Tur the prequel novella to this series which I really loved does Elsker live up to its awesomeness?
Kristia is an American, living in the back end of boring town, USA, she has never been one for living life dangerously but she decides to up sticks and transfer to Cardiff University in Wales, helped in her decision by her hidden talent (is it a talent or a hindrance?) which is she suffers visions and she has one which seals her decision to move there.
She moves in with Emma and Victoria who could not be more different than Earl Grey tea total Kristia but she soon loses her demure attitude when she meets the walking Norse blonde stubby sexy beefcake that is Ull, sorry I should not objectify him my apologies to men's lib!
She does not know what his problem is, one minute he looks at her like he is furious with her and the next minute he is being all sweetness and light with her. But of course as we found out in Tur, Kristia has been named in the prophecy that tells of her being Ull's soul mate, which Kristia at the moment knows nothing about.
The relationship between Kristia and Ull can be romantic at times, down right sexy at other times and occasionally frustrating, I did feel he was letting down the bad boys of this worlds by the deluge of flowers that he sent to Kristia but then I am just jealous the last time I got flowers from my Ull was 18 years ago!
Their relationship also moves quite fast and before we know it she has totally thrown her Earl Grey to the side and goes with Ull to his house for the weekend. But will he tell her more about himself?, she is beginning to put two and two together, especially since he was absent during part of her Norse Mythology class, the part that talked about Ullr, well to find that out you will need to read it yourself - no spoilers!
This really is an enjoyable book, I love the fact it is scattered with Norwegian phrases, I have never used the translation setting on my Kindle so much, I also love learning more about the mythology of the Norse Gods.
My only downside was sometimes Ull could come across as being a little stilted as he talked but I am putting this down to the fact that English is not his first language.
If you enjoy your romance with a bit of mythology or indeed paranormal thrown in then you will love this!
Elsker is awarded 4 out of 5
April 23, 2013
In Elsker we follow Kristia Tostenson to Cardiff University in Wales. Kristia is a small town girl with big dreams. Her first meeting with Ull isn't exactly pleasant. In fact he's pretty rude, but with god-like good looks who really cares right? Kristia doesn't expect to see him again but fate brings them back together. Kristia has her reservations about Ull, especially since his roommates are just as flawless. But after a few intense dates including a long awaited overnight trip to Ull's private country cottage, the two realize they've been marked for each other. Quite literally.
But blossoming love never stays perfect for long. Kristia slowly begins discovering how different Ull really is. She has a hard time swallowing the fact that he's the Norse God of Winter. Meeting the in-laws would mean being introduced to Thor himself and Kristia isn't his ideal future daughter-in-law. Meanwhile, enemy forces set a plan into play to bring about the foretold battle of Ragnarok, the battle said to end Asgard's rule. Ull is torn between his mortal love and his immortal responsibilities. He's forced to choose, but Kristia becomes more involved in the fate of Asgard than anyone could have predicted . . . minus one outlawed prophetess.
I'm going to be honest. I fell in love with Kristia from page one. Her determination to experience the world and reach outside her comfort zone was something I could really relate to. Ull was impeccably written, along with all the other characters. Every scene was set up with perfection, allowing me to dive into Kristia's world with ease. The fantasy element was also very well done. S.T. Bende really has a knack for world building and her love of teas, cakes, and Norse mythology comes out in the story. I especially loved reading about Olaug. Pieces of her were like my own grandma. And surprise, the recipe for her famous Norsk waffles are on the last page! I've already tried them.
As for the romance, Elsker had just the right amount of steaminess to leave me satisfied. This love story was tastefully written. Ull, being immortal, is a very traditional man and such was his relationship with Kristia. The two's love evolves slowly, making their intimate moments immensely meaningful. I'm looking forward to Kristia's wedding in book two, ENDRE!
But blossoming love never stays perfect for long. Kristia slowly begins discovering how different Ull really is. She has a hard time swallowing the fact that he's the Norse God of Winter. Meeting the in-laws would mean being introduced to Thor himself and Kristia isn't his ideal future daughter-in-law. Meanwhile, enemy forces set a plan into play to bring about the foretold battle of Ragnarok, the battle said to end Asgard's rule. Ull is torn between his mortal love and his immortal responsibilities. He's forced to choose, but Kristia becomes more involved in the fate of Asgard than anyone could have predicted . . . minus one outlawed prophetess.
I'm going to be honest. I fell in love with Kristia from page one. Her determination to experience the world and reach outside her comfort zone was something I could really relate to. Ull was impeccably written, along with all the other characters. Every scene was set up with perfection, allowing me to dive into Kristia's world with ease. The fantasy element was also very well done. S.T. Bende really has a knack for world building and her love of teas, cakes, and Norse mythology comes out in the story. I especially loved reading about Olaug. Pieces of her were like my own grandma. And surprise, the recipe for her famous Norsk waffles are on the last page! I've already tried them.
As for the romance, Elsker had just the right amount of steaminess to leave me satisfied. This love story was tastefully written. Ull, being immortal, is a very traditional man and such was his relationship with Kristia. The two's love evolves slowly, making their intimate moments immensely meaningful. I'm looking forward to Kristia's wedding in book two, ENDRE!
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February 7, 2016
I'm reading cross-country through everything paranormal, vampires mostly, and enjoy it alot; so much that I actually forget that Norse mythology is my favorite. They are all so kick-ass and somewhat brute, and all those different realms, their mystic beasts and Ragnarok! I just love it, and I think the whole defying destiny thing works the best for them. Thus, Ull and Kristia were right up my alley!
Ull really had that old world charme working for him, totally unhinging my brute comment. I was missing the fire, either temper or passion wise, but I guess he's the god of winter for a reason... so closed off and in control, although Kristia tried very hard to poke the dragon. I sure hope she succeeds in the future, 'coz I know it's in him... and it'd be beyond awesome. Just thinking about it has me tingling all over! *swoon*
Kristia decided to have a do-over, be a new person, better to herself, and she stuck to that. I liked that she had to beat back her old self now and again, which surprisingly wasn't bothersome, although it was repetative. She was very stubborn and she wanted to help where she could, even if that possibly gained her the wrath of some Nordic gods... And as much as she is doing it for the love of her life, she's also doing it for the sake of all life on earth as well as Asgard. She's really a good, small-town girl raised right by her grandma. She's smart too, and knows how to hold a grude and even make a god work for it. She rocked!
I also loved all the side characters in this -- a very close-knit group of friends watching out for each other, but a nice mix right after my own heart.
Plotwise, we don't really get anywhere into the action yet, but Kristia had a vision I would very much like to see come true, and know it will! ... but not before book three, I'm afraid. However, there's also some nice hints as what to expect from book two, and I'm very much looking forward to the plot thicking, and to get a better look at the inner workings of the Asgardians like S.T. Bende sees it. I've already put the box set on my wishlist.
Area Scan: Flow: 5/5 -- Vocab: 4/5 -- Plot: 4/5 -- Heroes: 5/5 -- Sidekicks: 4/5 -- Villains: 5/5 -- Romance: 4/5 -- Drama: 5/5 -- Action: 3.5/5 -- Suspense: 5/5 -- Idea: 5/5
Ull really had that old world charme working for him, totally unhinging my brute comment. I was missing the fire, either temper or passion wise, but I guess he's the god of winter for a reason... so closed off and in control, although Kristia tried very hard to poke the dragon. I sure hope she succeeds in the future, 'coz I know it's in him... and it'd be beyond awesome. Just thinking about it has me tingling all over! *swoon*
Kristia decided to have a do-over, be a new person, better to herself, and she stuck to that. I liked that she had to beat back her old self now and again, which surprisingly wasn't bothersome, although it was repetative. She was very stubborn and she wanted to help where she could, even if that possibly gained her the wrath of some Nordic gods... And as much as she is doing it for the love of her life, she's also doing it for the sake of all life on earth as well as Asgard. She's really a good, small-town girl raised right by her grandma. She's smart too, and knows how to hold a grude and even make a god work for it. She rocked!
I also loved all the side characters in this -- a very close-knit group of friends watching out for each other, but a nice mix right after my own heart.
Plotwise, we don't really get anywhere into the action yet, but Kristia had a vision I would very much like to see come true, and know it will! ... but not before book three, I'm afraid. However, there's also some nice hints as what to expect from book two, and I'm very much looking forward to the plot thicking, and to get a better look at the inner workings of the Asgardians like S.T. Bende sees it. I've already put the box set on my wishlist.
Area Scan: Flow: 5/5 -- Vocab: 4/5 -- Plot: 4/5 -- Heroes: 5/5 -- Sidekicks: 4/5 -- Villains: 5/5 -- Romance: 4/5 -- Drama: 5/5 -- Action: 3.5/5 -- Suspense: 5/5 -- Idea: 5/5
June 9, 2016
4.5 snowflakes
Kristia Tostenson lives in the tiny town of Nehalem, Oregon. She decides that she needs to get out and see the world a little bit because she's been couped up their her entire life. So she chooses to spend her sophomore year of college abroad in Cardiff University in Wales.
The plot itself isn't unique really, but it's so enjoyable all the same! This first installment is a kind of build up. Krisita meets everyone and is introduced to the Norse world. This is all in preparation for Ragnarok:
....otherwise known as doomsday.
The gods of Asgard are meant to fall in a battle against their enemies to protect mankind. This battle is known as Ragnarok.
And Kristia wants in.
Ullr, the Norse god of winter, aka Ull Myhr:
Those eyes.....
Although I liked Ull (hello? Gentleman, old-fashioned, chivalrous, loyal, handsome, kind, a god! What's not to like there?), I felt that his relationship with Kristia progressed rather quickly. But, then again when fate, prophesies, and norns are involved, it makes sense. They are literally meant for each other.
Ull was a little too annoying at times with his protective nature. Thankfully he lost the argument because Kristia didn't suck up to him.
Other than that, literally every single character is awesome in their own right! I absolutely LOVE Kristia's roommates, Emma and Victoria!
Elsker (that's Norwegian for "love" and also the name of the norn who brought Ull and Kristia together) was enticing and I have formed an attachment to it!
Yes, continue with the saga I shall!
I would recommend!
Also this first book is free on amazon kindle! So go get it :D
Kristia Tostenson lives in the tiny town of Nehalem, Oregon. She decides that she needs to get out and see the world a little bit because she's been couped up their her entire life. So she chooses to spend her sophomore year of college abroad in Cardiff University in Wales.
The plot itself isn't unique really, but it's so enjoyable all the same! This first installment is a kind of build up. Krisita meets everyone and is introduced to the Norse world. This is all in preparation for Ragnarok:
....otherwise known as doomsday.
The gods of Asgard are meant to fall in a battle against their enemies to protect mankind. This battle is known as Ragnarok.
And Kristia wants in.
Ullr, the Norse god of winter, aka Ull Myhr:
Those eyes.....
Although I liked Ull (hello? Gentleman, old-fashioned, chivalrous, loyal, handsome, kind, a god! What's not to like there?), I felt that his relationship with Kristia progressed rather quickly. But, then again when fate, prophesies, and norns are involved, it makes sense. They are literally meant for each other.
Ull was a little too annoying at times with his protective nature. Thankfully he lost the argument because Kristia didn't suck up to him.
Other than that, literally every single character is awesome in their own right! I absolutely LOVE Kristia's roommates, Emma and Victoria!
Elsker (that's Norwegian for "love" and also the name of the norn who brought Ull and Kristia together) was enticing and I have formed an attachment to it!
Yes, continue with the saga I shall!
I would recommend!
Also this first book is free on amazon kindle! So go get it :D
July 8, 2013
This review and many others can be found at Rotten Apple Reads
I had the awesome opportunity to have "met" ST Bende on Twitter last week during the NA Crush Tourney (which it's still going on). When you get the chance, follow her and all the other Team Ull members because they made my week! So when I read the synopsis of Elsker, it sounded so interesting, I knew I had to have it. So I asked ST if she could give me a copy of her book to review and she said of course!
Many of you know I LOVE the New Adult genre, but it is hard to find a New Adult book that is not Contemporary so I'm always on the hunt for somehthing interesting and unique; Elsker gave me that.
Kristia is tired of the ordinary life she's been living in a her small-town so she decides to study abroad her senior year of college at Cardiff University; This is where she meets Ull. I really liked Kristia. I loved the way she handled this new world that she had no idea existed. I know if I were to be in her situation I would have gone crazy. And of course, there is more to her that meets the eyes; she has these visions that she thinks are weird dreams and sees them as a handicap, little does she know these visions will help save the world
Then we have Ull, God of Winter. He was such a gentleman, a romantic, so sweet, and swoon-worthy. Of course, he also has a darker side; he is an assassin. I loved everything about him, especially his tight sweaters *sigh*. I can't wait to see him in action in the next books on the series.
Overall, I loved this book. I was pulled into the story from the very first page and I found myself not able to stop reading it! I thought all the mythology was either going to bore me or confuse me, but that was not the case. I loved every minute of it! I also loved all the secondary characters; the human and the not-so humans.
The prequel, Tur is already out, but the sequel will be released in September.
July 14, 2014
So I really enjoyed Elsker (and even the prequel, Tor). I wasn't sure what it would be like going into it as I'm not really a Norse mythology kinda gal (or wasn't, it seems, until recently), but Elsker was quite entertaining. For one, Ull, the sexy, you know, Norse god, was a nice change from the usual. For two, I liked his fashion sense, as did Kristia. (Very up to date on things, unlike how I'd imagine Thor to be.) For another, if you're into the whole Twilight scene (or even if you aren't...), there are a few similarities that will have you ladies swooning, but not enough to where it will be distracting.
That's another thing I appreciated: The whole love issue. (If you've seen the recent Thor 2 trailers... well... the same kind of storyline is definitely going to be part of the next book in the Elsker Saga, too. I can't wait to read it!) ST does a great job of telling an enjoyable story while weaving the whole mythology thing in and getting you to actually want to know more about it. (I wouldn't have seen myself feeling that way before reading Elsker.) I also love that Kristia has gone from the plain ol' US of A to an entirely different country and almost immediately blends right in. (I would have hidden in my dorm room for years.)
And, as the book nears its end, you'll be glad these two are made for each other. AND excited for the upcoming battle. AND looking forward to a few particular scenes. (Which I can't tell you about, because I haven't read them yet. But I know they'll be there because it IS called the Elsker Saga, and elsker does mean love, so there you go.)
Definitely a fun, quick read with romance and a whole lot more to come in the saga. (Also, take Stephanie Wardrop's advice and imagine Ull with Chris Hemsworth's Thor accent. You'll be glad you did.)
That's another thing I appreciated: The whole love issue. (If you've seen the recent Thor 2 trailers... well... the same kind of storyline is definitely going to be part of the next book in the Elsker Saga, too. I can't wait to read it!) ST does a great job of telling an enjoyable story while weaving the whole mythology thing in and getting you to actually want to know more about it. (I wouldn't have seen myself feeling that way before reading Elsker.) I also love that Kristia has gone from the plain ol' US of A to an entirely different country and almost immediately blends right in. (I would have hidden in my dorm room for years.)
And, as the book nears its end, you'll be glad these two are made for each other. AND excited for the upcoming battle. AND looking forward to a few particular scenes. (Which I can't tell you about, because I haven't read them yet. But I know they'll be there because it IS called the Elsker Saga, and elsker does mean love, so there you go.)
Definitely a fun, quick read with romance and a whole lot more to come in the saga. (Also, take Stephanie Wardrop's advice and imagine Ull with Chris Hemsworth's Thor accent. You'll be glad you did.)
August 12, 2015
Kristia is an awkward, small-town girl from Nehalem, Oregon. With encouragement from her sassy friend Ardis, she attempts her first adventure away from home: study abroad at Cardiff University in Wales, where no one knows about her crazy visions. What starts out being a big step for her soon turns into one of her typical stumbles at the unexpected romance with the hot, detached Norse, Ull Myhr. It is a surprise for both of them when she stumbles straight into his heart. The surprise for Kristia? Her mythology class isn't so mythical. And for Ull? He's surprised to find himself allowing (wanting) someone else in his complicated life.
This first book in the Elsker Saga is a whirlwind introduction to Norse mythology, which I always enjoy, with little bits of Norwegian adding some authenticity to the tales. Although their interactions were sweet, I had a bit of a hard time accepting the rapid tumble the main characters take into each other's lives (instalove); it was a little jarring how quickly an awkward, small-town girl with no ambitions or expectations to meet any guy (let alone the local hunk who is actively hostile towards her at first) jumps into Ull's life. Besides this, the main characters are well-developed. Written from Kristia's point of view, it's quite easy to share her sudden, overwhelming emotions and to empathize with her decision-making struggles, whereas Ull retains a mysterious quality that intrigues.
S.T. Bende writes with vivid, clear descriptions and a dramatic, fluid plot that alternates between very rapid and a bit slow but nonetheless kept me engaged throughout. But be warned! Have the second book ready, because with such a cliffhanger, you'll be wishing you had Kristia's visions to know what the fate of the couple and their worlds will be...
This first book in the Elsker Saga is a whirlwind introduction to Norse mythology, which I always enjoy, with little bits of Norwegian adding some authenticity to the tales. Although their interactions were sweet, I had a bit of a hard time accepting the rapid tumble the main characters take into each other's lives (instalove); it was a little jarring how quickly an awkward, small-town girl with no ambitions or expectations to meet any guy (let alone the local hunk who is actively hostile towards her at first) jumps into Ull's life. Besides this, the main characters are well-developed. Written from Kristia's point of view, it's quite easy to share her sudden, overwhelming emotions and to empathize with her decision-making struggles, whereas Ull retains a mysterious quality that intrigues.
S.T. Bende writes with vivid, clear descriptions and a dramatic, fluid plot that alternates between very rapid and a bit slow but nonetheless kept me engaged throughout. But be warned! Have the second book ready, because with such a cliffhanger, you'll be wishing you had Kristia's visions to know what the fate of the couple and their worlds will be...
September 21, 2016
Norse Mythology is a section of literature that is most often neglected, or only present in historical fiction. But S.T. Bende took Norse Mythology to the next level and introduced it to the younger generations by incorporating the legends into an older young adult novel that connects the mythologies to today's world. As someone who is very passionate about Norse Mythology, I was very impressed with S.T. Bende's novel, and how she was able to take the myths of Norse Mythology and translate them to reality.
Elsker is written from the perspective of our heroine, Kristia, a girl from a small town who has decided to attend Cardiff University in Wales. Kristia is catapulted from a simple small town life into the world of the Norse gods and quickly becomes involved in an ancient battle that has come back to the surface. This novel is not just a novel about a young girl finding herself and expanding her horizons, but about the power that mythology has on our contemporary lives and how those we meet may not be exactly who we think they are.
S.T. Bende's novel is not just a novel for older young adults, but for people of all ages to learn about Norse Mythology and the origins of its age old concepts. I have not found an older young adult novel as original as Elsker in quite some time, and I now know why this indie novel is an international bestseller.
Elsker is written from the perspective of our heroine, Kristia, a girl from a small town who has decided to attend Cardiff University in Wales. Kristia is catapulted from a simple small town life into the world of the Norse gods and quickly becomes involved in an ancient battle that has come back to the surface. This novel is not just a novel about a young girl finding herself and expanding her horizons, but about the power that mythology has on our contemporary lives and how those we meet may not be exactly who we think they are.
S.T. Bende's novel is not just a novel for older young adults, but for people of all ages to learn about Norse Mythology and the origins of its age old concepts. I have not found an older young adult novel as original as Elsker in quite some time, and I now know why this indie novel is an international bestseller.
April 6, 2015
I love this book. Wow, I starting reading as it was free and just sounded so darn interesting, and it was. I was hooked pretty fast. The characters are very well developed and written in a way to make you really care about them.
Some of the more fashion scenes just bored me, as I could care less about designer labels and such, and all the fussy stuff some girls go gaga over. Guess that's the tomboy in me, lol. Other than that I loved it all. And that is not a big deal over all, especially for the majority of readers out there.
Ull is hot, he is amazing and really like him.
I had to go buy the next 2 books in this series, as I could not wait to see what happened next.
This has a sweet romance that is YA for sure, no steamy stuff , just kissing.
I give this 5 out of 5 stars and think paranormal and mythology lovers out there will really like this.
Some of the more fashion scenes just bored me, as I could care less about designer labels and such, and all the fussy stuff some girls go gaga over. Guess that's the tomboy in me, lol. Other than that I loved it all. And that is not a big deal over all, especially for the majority of readers out there.
Ull is hot, he is amazing and really like him.
I had to go buy the next 2 books in this series, as I could not wait to see what happened next.
This has a sweet romance that is YA for sure, no steamy stuff , just kissing.
I give this 5 out of 5 stars and think paranormal and mythology lovers out there will really like this.
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