The Witch’s Heart is Genevieve Gornichec‘s most recent release. Ace Books released this retelling of Norse folklore in February 2021. We are introduced to a witch who has been burned alive multiple times yet manages to survive her death sentence each time. She is trying to stay off the radar and not be noticed by anyone, especially the gods. When who should appear, but the trickster god himself.
CW/TW: death, violence, murder, war, forced marriage, kidnapping
Synopsis
For refusing to give Odin what he wanted, Angrboda was sentenced to death by burning. Injured and powerless, she flees to the farthest corner of the 9 Worlds. Soon she is found by a man bearing a special gift. He reveals himself to be the trickster god, Loki. She distrusts him and his actions, but over time finds herself in love with him.
Their union produces three children, each with a unique power and destiny. Angraboda works hard to keep her family safe, especially as she starts to regain her power of prophecy.
Will she fight to stop the prophecy? Or will she fight to control the destiny of her loved ones?
Postives
I will admit, I listened to the audiobook and did not read a physical copy. And if you are unfamiliar with many of the names found in Norse mythology and folklore, this is probably the best way to read the book.
This is more than a story of a powerless witch gaining her powers back. This is a story of love- the love of a mother for her children, a wife for her husband, the love of friends.
Negatives
One negative about this book is the lack of chapters. Yes, I listened to the audiobook, but each “chapter” was roughly 75 minutes in length. I assume that means the chapters in the actual book were close to 70 pages each.
I’m not sure I can truly find something else I did not like about the book. Outside of the behavior of several of the characters. But that is more on me and my lack of knowledge about Norse mythology.
My Opinion
Before reading this book, my knowledge of Norse mythology was from reading the Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard series by Rick Riordan and Marvel comics. One out of the two was more closely related to the characters of this book. I’ll let you guess which one that is.
I will not discuss how unfair the gods were to Angrboda and her family because that is how the folktale is told. And because all gods and goddesses in any mythology seem to have high opinions of themselves. Looking at you, Zeus!
Angrboda just wanted to be left alone, to live out her life. She did not want anything to do with Odin or even Asgard. Her desire to stay away from Odin became stronger after she became a mother. She was trying to protect her kids, who she knew the world would scorn because they were unusual. The Asgardians took her kids, laughed at them, and then punished them for even existing. Who is in the wrong here?
This story is enjoyable. And one I found myself drawn in from the beginning. I look forward to reading more by Gorichec.
Looking for some more books to read? Check out my other book reviews and my monthly reading wrap-ups.
That’s a good point about listening vs reading. So many names I don’t know how to pronounce, so it would be good to listen to understand the pronunciation.