Shield Maiden by Sharon Emmerichs Narrated by Victoria Fox
Mixed Feelings Audiobook.
I received an advance copy of the audiobook shortly after its release. Anticipating a blend of elements I typically enjoy in literature, I eagerly dove into it. Nevertheless, my experience turned out to be a mixed bag. Having studied Beowulf during my college years, I found both the content and analysis engaging. With a penchant for Norse mythology and a growing interest in historical fiction, this book seemed like a promising prospect. However, it attempted to incorporate numerous themes simultaneously, resulting in a lackluster execution.
The narrative encompassed elements such as political intrigue, the presence of a dragon, familial conflicts, romantic entanglements, the trope of the chosen one, and a perplexing curse, which failed to captivate my interest. Geographically confined to a relatively small setting, I yearned for a more expansive exploration of the world, its daily life, and customs. Additionally, the ensemble of characters felt limited in scope. Wiglaf stood out to me due to my intense dislike for him. Despite my aversion, I found his perspective surprisingly well-executed, providing a glimpse into his twisted psyche. However, I struggled to connect with the remaining characters. Fryda’s naivety and obliviousness to the pervasive abuses around her, despite her proximity to a servant and a slave, proved to be a difficult aspect to witness. Theow’s characterization left me indifferent, while Beowulf’s only redeeming quality seemed to be his sense of humor.
The plot took an excruciatingly long time to gain momentum, failing to instill a sense of investment in the storyline until well past the halfway mark. While the story eventually picked up pace towards the end, the prolonged buildup with multiple plotlines left much to be desired. Surprisingly, this particular book might have benefited from a more extensive exploration, as it lacked substantial depth. Despite my reservations, I must commend Victoria Fox for her exceptional narration, which was a highlight of the experience.
If you possess a fervent enthusiasm for Beowulf or the depicted time period, you might find it worth exploring. I remain curious to hear other perspectives on this work. For further details, please follow the link below or visit your preferred book retailer.
