Valkyrie Rising by Ingrid Paulson

Valkyrie Rising

by Ingrid Paulson 

 

Nothing ever happens in Norway. But at least Ellie knows what to expect when she visits her grandmother: a tranquil fishing village and long, slow summer days. And maybe she’ll finally get out from under the shadow of her way-too-perfect big brother, Graham, while she’s there.

What Ellie doesn’t anticipate is Graham’s infuriating best friend, Tuck, tagging along for the trip. Nor did she imagine boys going missing amid rumors of impossible kidnappings. Least of all does she expect something powerful and ancient to awaken in her and that strange whispers would urge Ellie to claim her place among mythological warriors. Instead of peace and quiet, there’s suddenly a lot for a girl from L.A. to handle on a summer sojourn in Norway! And when Graham vanishes, it’s up to Ellie—and the ever-sarcastic, if undeniably alluring Tuck—to uncover the truth about all the disappearances and thwart the nefarious plan behind them.

Deadly legends, hidden identities, and tentative romance swirl together in one girl’s unexpectedly-epic coming of age.

 

(summary from goodreads.com)

__________________________________________________ 

Fun book! I spend most of it thinking "have I read this?" and I finally came to the conclusion that I absolutely, undeniably, did not read it. Maybe. Ha! Seriously though, I think I've read a book similar with Norwegian myths but I don't think this was it. I liked this book better than I thought I would - I really loved Ellie and loved loved Tuck. Every book needs a Tuck. I loved how the Valkyries weren't pigeonholed into the "villain" role. Awesome.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: moderate; Profanity: don't think so?; Sex: innuendo