Exiled

A journey through Helheim and meeting more gods.

*I received this book from the author or publisher in exchange for an honest review.

We pick up right where FREED left off. Phoebe and her family and friends are returning to Asgard for her trial, and Fin's. For what? Phoebe faces the goddess mother of Baldur for her part in his death. Fin faces judgement for escaping where he was held captive. Phoebe knows she did nothing wrong and definitely didn't kill Baldur. However the justice system at Asgard is very different than she was expecting. But Phoebe has influences from high powers on her side. She makes a deal that if she can bring Baldur back from Hel's side in Helheim, she and Fin will be allowed back into Asgard. But the path isn't as smooth as she hopes.

Amanda is known for writing books that keep moving forward with action. Exiled is no different. Phoebe has many obstacles to face before she gets to where she wants to be. And things don't always go as one plans or hopes.

Phoebe has some adventures with Fin, but there are many long moments she's without Fin. What I enjoy about this is she stands on her own and figures things out herself. Phoebe is growing stronger in her decisions and choices in this new world of gods and goddesses she's in. She needs to be able to function on her own, and she's learning to do just that. Phoebe retains her kindness towards others as she goes on her adventures. Well, with those who are kind to her too. There are a few new character we are introduced to. These characters are important with their individual destinies crossing with Phoebe's. You know with the gods, destiny is always a driving force and it's seen here.

Phoebe's family grows. Phoebe meets her grandmother. A formidable woman who lead the valkarie's in her time in service. Phoebe meets her father! He is like two different people - her father then the man that rules strong. But he has influences in the way of things as well. Somethings were put into motion years before Phoebe was born.

An old god appears in this book and is one Phoebe finds to be a strong adversary. Loki. Loki wants her for a very special reason. But can she out run him and complete what she needs to save herself? Then maybe she can talk to those that can help take care of Loki. And what about the three hags? They are still after her, and turning all of Asgard against her.

Phoebe's time in Helheim is very neat. I like that Hel is not as terrible a goddess as we could have seen. She's... different and seems as she's neglected or forgotten by others with her looks and being down here. Hel is tough and has to rule as she does, but Phoebe keeps working at her and at the souls down here. Oh! In mentioning the souls, there is one Phoebe gets help from. Interesting character. I really liked the connection with this soul.

At the end of the book we learn a bit about Phoebe's friend, Sam, while being in Asgard. She's a strong, fun character but there is more to her than we all suspected! You'll have to read to learn that, and I'm hoping to get all these details in book(s) to come!

I enjoyed this journey with Phoebe. Her time in Helheim was a great time. She has grown as a Valkarie and in her own abilities.