Title: The Wheel of Osheim
Author: Mark Lawrence
First published May 5, 2016
656 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780007531615 (ISBN10: 0007531613)
Rating: 4.33
Overview
In the third installment of THE RED QUEEN’S WAR series, Mark Lawrence takes us on another epic journey. Snorri Ver Snagason races against time and the horrors of Hell to rescue his family, while Jalan Kendeth seeks to escape with Loki’s Key, which can open any lock.
For Jalan, possessing the key means returning to his old ways of wine, women, and wagering. But the Wheel of Osheim is spinning faster, threatening to crack the world apart.
As the end of all things approaches, even the most cowardly must find courage to face new challenges. Get ready for a thrilling adventure in The Wheel of Osheim.
About the Author
Hey there! I’m excited to share that my new books, The Girl And The Moon and Dispel Illusion, are now available! If you’re interested in supporting me as an author, you can find my Patreon page here: https://www.patreon.com/marklawrencea…
I also have a blog where I share updates and musings: http://mark—lawrence.blogspot.co.uk/. And guess what?
I’m now on Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr, Pintrest, and Mastodon! So come say hi and connect with me on your preferred social media platform.
If you’re interested in receiving occasional updates and free content, you can sign up for my three-emails-a-year newsletter. And if you’re looking for even more free stuff, I have some writing available on Wattpad!
A little bit about me: I’m a married father of four, with one child who is severely disabled. Before becoming a full-time writer in 2015, I worked as a research scientist focused on artificial intelligence.
I even held secret level clearance with both US and UK governments at one point! While I used to have a long list of hobbies, these days my time is mostly spent writing and caring for my daughter, though I do occasionally indulge in some computer games.
Editoral Review
In “The Wheel of Osheim,” Mark Lawrence returns to the epic world he created in his bestselling Broken Empire trilogy. Published on May 5, 2016, this book is a fantasy novel that explores themes of power, morality, and redemption.
The author has established himself as a leading voice in the dark fantasy genre, with his gritty, violent, and deeply compelling storytelling. The story picks up with Jalan Kendeth, the reluctant prince turned coward, and Snorri ver Snagason, the fierce Viking warrior, trapped in the otherworldly realm of the Dead King.
To escape, they must navigate through a hostile landscape and defeat the countless enemies that stand in their way, including demons, giants, and undead armies. Meanwhile, they face inner demons of their own, as they struggle with guilt, regret, and the consequences of their past actions.
Their journey takes them across different countries and cultures, giving a glimpse of the rich and diverse world of the Broken Empire. Lawrence is a master at creating complex and flawed characters that are both relatable and intriguing.
Jalan and Snorri’s friendship, despite their contrasting personalities, is the heart of the story, and their banter provides moments of humor and warmth amidst the grimness of their situation. Jalan, in particular, undergoes significant character development, as he learns to confront his fears and accept his responsibilities.
The other supporting characters are equally well-written, with distinct personalities and motivations that add depth to the story. The book’s pacing is excellent, with a good balance between action, dialogue, and introspection.
The fight scenes are intense and visceral, and the magic system is well-defined and consistent. The world-building is immersive, with vivid descriptions of the landscapes, cultures, and history of the Broken Empire.
Lawrence also explores important themes such as the value of life, the danger of addiction, and the meaning of sacrifice, which make the story more relevant and thought-provoking. While the book is an engaging and satisfying read, it also has some flaws.
The plot may be predictable at times, and some of the revelations and twists feel forced or convenient. The ending, though fitting, may leave some readers wanting more resolution or closure.
Additionally, the book contains some graphic violence and mature themes, which may not be suitable for younger readers. Overall, “The Wheel of Osheim” is a worthy addition to the Broken Empire series, and a great standalone fantasy novel.
Fans of the genre and the author will not be disappointed, as it delivers on all fronts: strong characters, great world-building, gripping plot, and meaningful themes. It is a book that will satisfy both the head and the heart, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.
For fans of dark, epic fantasy, “The Wheel of Osheim” is a must-read. It is also recommended to readers who enjoy stories about redemption, friendship, and self-discovery.
However, due to its mature content, it may not be suitable for all audiences. On a scale of 1 to 10, I would give it an 8, based on its writing quality, originality, entertainment value, and emotional impact.
