Thilde Kold Holdt makes a striking debut with "Northern Wrath," the first installment of the Hanged God Trilogy, a visceral epic fantasy that delves into themes of power, betrayal, and revenge. Set in a world where ancient traditions clash with the spread of Christianity, the protagonist Hilda finds herself thrust into the role of a reluctant hero, grappling with betrayal and facing the challenges of a perilous quest.

Holdt crafts a diverse cast of characters, though some may not be as fully developed as the main players like Hilda, Siv, Tyra, and Einer. Within this rich tapestry of personalities, she seamlessly navigates the intricate power dynamics within jarls and alliances. Central to the narrative is the theme of revenge, as characters seek retribution for past devastations.

Despite occasional pacing issues, the novel captivates readers with its rich character sketches and tension-filled narrative. While it could have benefited from some trimming in the beginning, the piece ultimately offers intriguing insights into its characters, albeit occasionally falling into repetitive patterns.

Inspired by ancient Scandinavia, Holdt paints a vivid and immersive world teeming with detailed landscapes, cultures, and traditions, drawing comparisons to acclaimed sagas like the Bloodsworn Saga and American Gods. The narrative fearlessly embraces the brutal aspects of Viking traditions, vividly portraying gruesome bloodshed scenes alongside powerful rune magic and meticulously depicted battles brimming with ferocity and intensity.

The Hanged God Trilogy sets a tone reflective of Norse mythology, with the Broken Binding sprayed edges of the book mirroring the interconnected Nine Worlds through the imagery of Yggdrasil. Symbolizing sacrifice, transformation, and wisdom akin to Odin, the hanged god, who hung himself from Yggdrasil for knowledge, Holdt seamlessly integrates these mythological elements, exploring their significance in shaping cultures and societies in a captivating journey into the heart of Norse lore.

Despite its flaws, Holdt's debut earns praise for its compelling storytelling and seamless integration of mythological elements. Fans of Norse mythology will undoubtedly find much to savor in Holdt's work, eagerly anticipating the continuation of the series.