Book Review: Shield Maiden by Sharon Emmerichs (ARC)

"Having grown up hearing tales of her uncle, the great King Beowulf, Fryda's one desire is to become a shield maiden in her own right. Yet a terrible childhood accident has left Fryda disabled - thus, she believes, thwarting her dream of becoming a warrior-woman for good. But still, somehow, she feels an uncontrollable power begin to rise within herself.

Meanwhile, a great celebration of Beowulf's reign is underway, and Fryda's house is soon overrun with foreign kings and chieftains. Amidst the drunken revelry, a discovery is made that threatens the safety of Fryda's entire clan - and her own life. Enraged, Fryda resolves to fight for her people, no matter the cost... and all the while, her powers seem only to grow stronger.

But she is not the only one to feel its effects. For, buried deep in her gilded lair, a dragon is drawn to Fryda's untamed power, and is slowly awakening from a long, cursed sleep..."

Pages: 416

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Today is my stop on the tour for Shield Maiden by Sharon Emmerichs. I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much to the lovely Cassie, Ad Astra Fiction & Head of Zeus for having me on the tour!

Based on the poem Beowulf, Shield Maiden follows a determined and powerful heroine Fryda as she battles for her people on her journey to becoming a shield maiden.

I loved our main character Fryda! She was caring, fierce and resourceful! The friendships she formed were so special and full of love. I really enjoyed reading from her POV and I would’ve loved if the whole story was from her point of view rather than splitting it across the characters. She was so engaging and I really enjoyed her voice throughout. The excerpts from the dragon were a clever way to break up the chapters and I liked how it showcased the connection between the dragon and Fryda. Plus, the disability and chronic pain representation was written so thoughtfully throughout the story!

The setting and worldbuilding was very interesting! I loved the detail that the author included and the passion that the author has for this time period and poem really shined through. The writing is beautiful and I am definitely interested to see what the author writes next!