Early Book Review: Viking Warrior Rebel (Viking Warriors) by Asa Maria Bradley

Viking Warrior Rebel is the second book in the Viking Warriors series by Asa Maria Bradley and is currently scheduled for release on October 4 2016. The first book was Viking Warrior Rising, and I think that to fully enjoy this book it is important to read this series in order. This is particularly true because of love interests in this story get their start in the first book.

Astrid Irisdotter is a Valkyrie-a fierce warrior fighting to protect humanity from the evil god Loki and his brutal minions. She’s on an urgent mission for her queen when everything goes hideously sideways. Undercover agent Luke Holden arrives on the scene just in time to save her life-and put his own on the line. Luke may have saved her, but that doesn’t mean Astrid can trust him. Tempers flare as they hide secret upon secret from each other, but Astrid’s inner warrior knows what it wants, and it will not take “no” for an answer.

Viking Warrior Rebel is not exactly what i expected, but I think it was a good story for Astrid. She is stubborn and strong, like most of the warriors, and works hard never to show weakness or doubt. Luke has been undercover for so long that he is having trouble figuring out who he really is, and who he can trust. Neither gives into emotion often, or trust others easily, so walls and mistrust flow freely through the story, keeping things difficult. They each have some serious secrets, which they do not feel ready to share, with good reason. I think the character development is good, and their progression is well done and well timed. The frustration and fears of the two strong characters kept things going. I liked that there is definitely movement and connections to the larger story arc, but the love story definitely takes precedence. However, I will say that I am insanely curious about a couple side characters that I desperately want to see more of.

Viking Warrior Rebel is a solid addition to this series. While the larger story arc of the wolverines and labs definitely takes a back seat to the character’s personal development and conflicts. Fans of the series, and the author, will definitely be happy.