Reviews

Beyond Ragnarok by Carl Alves

lynne_joseph's review

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5.0

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a fantastic blend of mythology and present-day fiction. The author didn't allow the mythology to seem fake or Marvel-ish. He was true to the original tales, which was much appreciated.

The storyline is exceptional: playing Ragnarok as a diversion from Loki's real plan to take over the human world. The fight scenes don't drag on forever, which is yet another thing that was much appreciated.

It is an engaging story that I quickly finished in a single sitting.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

tinyelfarcanist's review

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adventurous medium-paced

3.0

I'll concede contemporary isn't my first choice when reading fantasy, so take that as you will while reading this review.

What troubled me from the beginning is that it's based on Norse mythology. I won't claim to be an expert, but I'm moderately familiar, and the depiction of these legendary characters was Marvel-esque. Odin is a noble man who sacrifices himself for the greater good. Loki is an evil maniac fixated on power and recognition.

I found the characters 2-dimensional. Modi, our MC, is strong, honourable, and selfless. The women are tools to exalt him or connect him to other men who will help him on his quest.

In the style of a Marvel movie, this story is quick and action-packed. I believe it would have worked better as a generic superhero novel rather than claiming to be Norse-related.

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