⚔️ Book Review: The Viking Tales Box Set Books #1–3 by W. J. May
A sweeping YA fantasy adventure where forbidden magic, fierce loyalty, and Viking honor collide in a saga of survival and sacrifice.
W. J. May’s The Viking Tales Box Set collects the first three books of her Norse-inspired fantasy series, following the journey of Liv, a young woman caught between the brutal laws of her people and the dangerous power she harbors. With a richly imagined world and emotionally charged storytelling, this box set offers a fast-paced, character-driven escape into Viking mythology and rebellion.
🧠 Series Overview
Book 1: The Arrival of the King
Liv lives in a world where magic is punishable by death. When a handsome warrior arrives in her village ahead of the king’s visit, Liv’s quiet life is upended. She forms a forbidden bond with the newcomer, vowing to protect him—even if it means sacrificing everything.
Book 2: The Witch’s Reckoning
Liv’s secret is exposed in front of the king’s soldiers, and she’s sentenced to death. Alone in a prison cell, she reflects on her choices while Erik, the warrior she protected, weighs the cost of saving her. The realm may be changing, but old prejudices die hard.
Book 3: Into the Wilderness
Fleeing execution, Liv and Erik escape into the wild. But danger follows close behind—imperial soldiers, betrayal, and the haunting truth about Liv’s powers. As they fight to survive, Liv must confront not only external threats but the secrets she’s kept from herself.
💬 Why Readers Enjoy It
- Strong Female Lead: Liv is brave, conflicted, and emotionally complex—an empowering heroine in a harsh world.
- Norse Mythology Vibes: The setting evokes Viking lore with a fresh fantasy twist, including imperial armies, magical outcasts, and survivalist grit.
- Romantic Tension: Liv and Erik’s relationship simmers with loyalty, sacrifice, and slow-burn intensity.
- Fast-Paced Drama: Each book ends with high stakes and cliffhangers, keeping readers hooked across the trilogy.
⚠️ Potential Drawbacks
- The series leans heavily on YA tropes like forbidden love and hidden powers, which may feel familiar to seasoned fantasy readers.
- Some plot turns rely on coincidence or emotional impulse rather than strategic logic.
🏁 Final Verdict
The Viking Tales Box Set Books #1–3 is a thrilling and emotional journey through a world where magic is outlawed and love is a dangerous choice. If you enjoy YA fantasy with Viking grit, fierce heroines, and high-stakes adventure, this trilogy is a worthy binge.
