 | Inspired by Norse mythology, The Witch’s Heart tells the story of Angrboda, a witch recovering from being burned and dismembered by the gods. She remembers teaching the gods Freyja and Odin magic, but the specifics of why they killed her are vague. Early in the story the Trickster god Loki appears with Angrboda’s heart, which the gods cut out of her chest trying to kill her. Their conversation is witty and surprising. Angrboda’s relationship with Loki and another supernatural character, the huntress Skadi, form the novel’s core. The fact that Skadi detests Loki adds a delicious layer of tension. Loki is both exasperating and delightful and we share Skadi’s poor opinion of him, yet can understand Angrboda’s attraction to him. |
In addition to these primary relationships, Angrboda becomes a mother to three supernatural children: her half-dead daughter Hel, the wolf Fenrir, and a serpent named Jormungand. We feel Angrboda’s unconditional love for her children, and her pain as the children mature and inevitably start to assert their independence, coming into conflict with each other and the adults.
 | Several themes make this book exceptional. One is the inherent racial prejudice of the gods against giants (Angrboda, Loki, and Skadi are all giants). The giants struggle with their internal racial bias which manifests both as resentment against the gods who denigrate them and a desire to be loved and accepted by the gods. Loki embodies this internal conflict most acutely. Another interesting theme is Angrboda’s struggle to regain her memories from before the gods “killed” her. We get to uncover her lost identity along with her until, in the climax, we see her finally embrace her fullness. Also compelling are themes of constancy and inconstancy: Loki is unable to make a consistent commitment whereas Skadi remains steadfast, perhaps at the expense of her own happiness—or perhaps not. |
The god Odin is the antagonist of the story, trying to pry a prophecy out of Angrboda and condemning her “monstrous” children, yet even Odin has complicated motives. At times, all of the characters take hurtful actions that have beneficial consequences, and well-meaning actions that cause harm. This complexity of motive and consequences gives the story unusual depth. These themes are nicely resolved in the final stage of Angrboda’s story.
Angrboda’s final act was a bit rushed for me. I would’ve liked to be more immersed in her magical experience, spent more time with her struggle and ultimate solution. However, her journey throughout the story is perfectly realized by her abiding love for her children and the two giants, Loki and Skadi.
I tried to read the author's second novel, but it wasn't an enjoyable reading experience for me.
The Witch’s Heart is a complex and intriguing fantasy, perfect for fans of Norse mythology or anyone looking for a story where the protagonist truly earns their transformation.
Angrboda’s final act was a bit rushed for me. I would’ve liked to be more immersed in her magical experience, spent more time with her struggle and ultimate solution. However, her journey throughout the story is perfectly realized by her abiding love for her children and the two giants, Loki and Skadi.
I tried to read the author's second novel, but it wasn't an enjoyable reading experience for me.
The Witch’s Heart is a complex and intriguing fantasy, perfect for fans of Norse mythology or anyone looking for a story where the protagonist truly earns their transformation.
For more on the Trickster god Loki, read Tricksters. For more on Norse mythology, read Ash and Elm.
RSS Feed