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memento_morri's review against another edition
dark
emotional
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.25
the_bibliophile_pile's review against another edition
4.0
I really enjoyed this book. All the stories, Loki in general. There was obviously a lot of research that went in to this book, and it really paid off. The story itself was captivating. Quite a few shocking twists. The ending was unexpected. I am really looking forward to Epilogues of Lost Gods.
bozakrowka's review against another edition
I was really excited for this book because of the unique angle of focusing on Sigyn. The set up promises Sigyn and Loki will squabble as she attempts to win Odin's favour by learning from Loki, then they will eventually grow closer. However at page 45, there's just a time skip and we don't see any of that squabbling and just cut to them kissing and having sex. Like that was the meat of it and it felt like a shame to rush through that for the sake of having Loki and Sigyn instantly click.
briannadasilva's review against another edition
5.0
It's hard to know where to start with this review! This is easily one of the best books I've read this year; though there were a few minor things that didn't work for me, and I don't think it's for everyone, as I'll explain in a minute. But I can't recommend this enough for fans of Norse Mythology.
The Goddess of Nothing At All is a retelling of the Norse myths, particularly those involving Loki, from the perspective of his wife, Sigyn. I found myself so emotionally invested in this strange, dysfunctional family that I could scarcely tear myself away from the book. It ruined multiple bedtimes, as I kept telling myself I'd stop reading "just after this chapter" and proceeded to keep reading in this way for hours. -_-
But as I mentioned, I don't think this book is for everyone, so I'll break that down.
Who this book is for:
- People with at least a passing familiarity of the ORIGINAL (*cough* non-Marvel *cough*) Norse myths.
Who this book is NOT for:
- People who aren't familiar with the Norse myths, or who only know the characters through Marvel
- Modern Asatru Neo-Pagans who actually believe in and worship the Norse gods
Let me explain why:
Having a passing familiarity with the original myths will allow you to fully appreciate what Cat Rector has done with this book. She's taken these old stories and masterfully woven a hidden, deeper story beneath and between them, giving the characters new motivations and the stories more layers of meaning.
And while this shouldn't have to be said, Marvel's version of Loki and Thor definitely doesn't count, lol. Marvel's universe there is very heavily inspired by the old Norse myths, but the characters, events, and world are all so different that I personally wouldn't even consider it a retelling. It's a totally new story that borrows from Norse mythology, but is not, itself, Norse mythology... imo!
That being said, you don't have to be a Norse mythology nerd, who knows everything about old Norse culture and religion, to appreciate The Goddess of Nothing At All. That's why I say a passing familiarity will do. A great way to achieve that familiarity would be to read Neil Gaiman's Norse Mythology; I highly recommend that book too, by the way!
But if you don't have this familiarity, I expect The Goddess of Nothing At All won't land as well. The pacing will come across as kind of strange, and some of the events will feel random. I see some reviews that reflect this. So if you want to read this book, I do recommend Neil Gaiman's first.
Additionally, if you are someone who actually worships the Norse gods and are sensitive to how they are portrayed.... *deep sighhhhhh* Not to be the annoying atheist here, but what the frick are you doing, reading a book like this that explicitly warns you at the beginning that the gods will not be portrayed favorably? And then giving the book a low review for doing exactly what it told you it would do? Stop taking away the fun from the rest of us who are perfectly capable of enjoying these stories as 100% fiction.
The Goddess of Nothing At All is a retelling of the Norse myths, particularly those involving Loki, from the perspective of his wife, Sigyn. I found myself so emotionally invested in this strange, dysfunctional family that I could scarcely tear myself away from the book. It ruined multiple bedtimes, as I kept telling myself I'd stop reading "just after this chapter" and proceeded to keep reading in this way for hours. -_-
But as I mentioned, I don't think this book is for everyone, so I'll break that down.
Who this book is for:
- People with at least a passing familiarity of the ORIGINAL (*cough* non-Marvel *cough*) Norse myths.
Who this book is NOT for:
- People who aren't familiar with the Norse myths, or who only know the characters through Marvel
- Modern Asatru Neo-Pagans who actually believe in and worship the Norse gods
Let me explain why:
Having a passing familiarity with the original myths will allow you to fully appreciate what Cat Rector has done with this book. She's taken these old stories and masterfully woven a hidden, deeper story beneath and between them, giving the characters new motivations and the stories more layers of meaning.
And while this shouldn't have to be said, Marvel's version of Loki and Thor definitely doesn't count, lol. Marvel's universe there is very heavily inspired by the old Norse myths, but the characters, events, and world are all so different that I personally wouldn't even consider it a retelling. It's a totally new story that borrows from Norse mythology, but is not, itself, Norse mythology... imo!
That being said, you don't have to be a Norse mythology nerd, who knows everything about old Norse culture and religion, to appreciate The Goddess of Nothing At All. That's why I say a passing familiarity will do. A great way to achieve that familiarity would be to read Neil Gaiman's Norse Mythology; I highly recommend that book too, by the way!
But if you don't have this familiarity, I expect The Goddess of Nothing At All won't land as well. The pacing will come across as kind of strange, and some of the events will feel random. I see some reviews that reflect this. So if you want to read this book, I do recommend Neil Gaiman's first.
Additionally, if you are someone who actually worships the Norse gods and are sensitive to how they are portrayed.... *deep sighhhhhh* Not to be the annoying atheist here, but what the frick are you doing, reading a book like this that explicitly warns you at the beginning that the gods will not be portrayed favorably? And then giving the book a low review for doing exactly what it told you it would do? Stop taking away the fun from the rest of us who are perfectly capable of enjoying these stories as 100% fiction.
literary_valkyrie's review
4.0
The Goddess of Nothing at All by Cat Rector
“I’ve carved out what little reputation I have line by line one favour, one conversation, one lesson at a time. I have bled dedication. And it still isn't enough for him.”
~~~~
When I tell you that I was so happy to finally see a book about Sigyn; I was absolutely overwhelmed! Rector did a great job with the plot and with the world building. I personally love when a reader is able to see all the research and love that an author puts into the book!
If Norse Mythology is what you are into or Sigyn; then please pick up Rector’s book! Don’t sleep on this Indie Author; cause she is onto amazing things! Book 2: Epilogues of Lost Gods is coming in 2022!
“I’ve carved out what little reputation I have line by line one favour, one conversation, one lesson at a time. I have bled dedication. And it still isn't enough for him.”
~~~~
When I tell you that I was so happy to finally see a book about Sigyn; I was absolutely overwhelmed! Rector did a great job with the plot and with the world building. I personally love when a reader is able to see all the research and love that an author puts into the book!
If Norse Mythology is what you are into or Sigyn; then please pick up Rector’s book! Don’t sleep on this Indie Author; cause she is onto amazing things! Book 2: Epilogues of Lost Gods is coming in 2022!
sparkles_f's review
4.0
4.5 I felt like some of the scenes were too quick--like the author had these major points she wanted to talk about and rushed through the "in between" scenes to get from one point to the next.
I will definitely re-read this again.
I will definitely re-read this again.
_michaelabrady_'s review against another edition
5.0
*PLEASE CHECK TRIGGER WARNINGS*
I can’t even being to put into words how much I love this book!
Firstly, thank you Cat for writing such an interesting, yet soul crushing story. You have written this book so beautifully.
Secondly, this is a LGBTQIA+ dark Norse mythology retelling, like this shit GRABBED me by the throat, I was GASPING for air at multiple points, I mean I cried RIVERS, I don’t know how there is water left in my body! But amongst all the soul crushing, there was some beautiful people and moments where my heart was so full, filled with joy and love.
Some scenes I was too shocked to speak, to read or not keep reading, Cat had me HOOKED through the whole book and I thoroughly enjoyed it, although therapy may be needed..
These characters were written so well and I felt as though I could see parts of me in multiple characters so it was somewhat of a comfort having these similarities yet really eye opening seeing it from the different perspective!
Also can I just say the Cave Scene BROKE ME
I can’t even being to put into words how much I love this book!
Firstly, thank you Cat for writing such an interesting, yet soul crushing story. You have written this book so beautifully.
Secondly, this is a LGBTQIA+ dark Norse mythology retelling, like this shit GRABBED me by the throat, I was GASPING for air at multiple points, I mean I cried RIVERS, I don’t know how there is water left in my body! But amongst all the soul crushing, there was some beautiful people and moments where my heart was so full, filled with joy and love.
Some scenes I was too shocked to speak, to read or not keep reading, Cat had me HOOKED through the whole book and I thoroughly enjoyed it, although therapy may be needed..
These characters were written so well and I felt as though I could see parts of me in multiple characters so it was somewhat of a comfort having these similarities yet really eye opening seeing it from the different perspective!
Also can I just say the Cave Scene BROKE ME
smpearce's review against another edition
4.0
3.5/5
This was an enjoyable read!
Things I liked:
- it's super unique/bizarre, just like the Norse myths it draws from!
- It was cool to follow Sigyn at different points in her life, I really enjoyed that with Circe too
- great queer representation, particularly bi, pan, and genderfluid, that felt super genuine and heartfelt (especially around Loki's experiences)
- the twist with Sigyn's title was great and made a lot of sense, and her response to it as well
- an easy read, I finished it in a day
- the ending w/ the cave was really compelling, and I think the characterization of Sigyn and Loki played especially well into it, which was a lovely pay-off
Things I liked less:
- I thought it was good, but it didn't feel fully developed. It would have liked to get a better idea of *why* certain plot things had to occur (eg: why did they have to stay in the Palace at all? what about Loki made her keep being loyal to them?)
- It felt a bit more Loki's book than Sigyn's, though I know the sources make that difficult, I still wanted the book to be more focused on her
- A rather small thing, but because this book has such excellent queer rep otherwise, it was a shame to read 'everybody needs someone' re: romantic partners, as an aro reader myself
Overall, I definitely recommend checking out The Goddess of Nothing at All if you're interested in a dark fantasy romance with lots of interesting Norse mythological inspiration! I look forward to hopefully reading more from Cat Rector in the future.
This was an enjoyable read!
Things I liked:
- it's super unique/bizarre, just like the Norse myths it draws from!
- It was cool to follow Sigyn at different points in her life, I really enjoyed that with Circe too
- great queer representation, particularly bi, pan, and genderfluid, that felt super genuine and heartfelt (especially around Loki's experiences)
- the twist with Sigyn's title was great and made a lot of sense, and her response to it as well
- an easy read, I finished it in a day
- the ending w/ the cave was really compelling, and I think the characterization of Sigyn and Loki played especially well into it, which was a lovely pay-off
Things I liked less:
- I thought it was good, but it didn't feel fully developed. It would have liked to get a better idea of *why* certain plot things had to occur (eg: why did they have to stay in the Palace at all? what about Loki made her keep being loyal to them?)
- It felt a bit more Loki's book than Sigyn's, though I know the sources make that difficult, I still wanted the book to be more focused on her
- A rather small thing, but because this book has such excellent queer rep otherwise, it was a shame to read 'everybody needs someone' re: romantic partners, as an aro reader myself
Overall, I definitely recommend checking out The Goddess of Nothing at All if you're interested in a dark fantasy romance with lots of interesting Norse mythological inspiration! I look forward to hopefully reading more from Cat Rector in the future.
dc_guevara13's review against another edition
5.0
If I could give this book a 6 star rating, I would. This book got me out of a reading slump, this book helped me restore my love for Dark Fantasy, this book ruined me emotionally in so many ways that it made me realize I needed some form of catharsis and Cat Rector was (not-so) gently delivering me a method on how to do so.
I do not say this lightly. It's very hard for a book to sink itself into my bones and make a home out of me. It's even harder for a book of this length to accomplish all of that, and yet Cat Rector did it.
You ever read a book so good you're just a tad bit jealous that you didn't write it?
Okay, so what is this book about? Sigyn is the daughter of Odin, jack of all trades but master of nothing (not by choice) who seeks out guidance and help and finds it in the mischievous, daring and handsome Loki, renowned for mischief and lies. In their encounters they eventually fall in love and we watch them grow, fall apart and re-shape their love into something, perhaps not whole, but real and tangible.
Love never is as pretty as the songs make it out to be after all.
I think the thing that mostly grips me about this book and does not let me go is how immersive this is. Rector's writing style manages to capture such elegance and grace that is not easily bestowed on anyone. This truly feels like a great, big fantasy epic in all senses of the word. The world is lush and vibrant, descriptions made in such a manner that I could perfectly picture them in my head.
(And may I suggest accompanying this book with various atmospheric music compilations such as "Dark Fantasy music" and the likes? They really add to the atmosphere)
The characters are remarkable, all real and rounded in many different ways. They are kind, they are cruel, they are lively, they are frustrating, they are magical, they are painful-- Rector's evocation for characters in all of their facets gives way for a myriad of characters that feel alive and real, all believable in all of their triumphs and failures.
My favorite aspect of this novel is Sigyn herself, because as she progresses in the narrative one can really feel the change in attitude/tone in her voice. Once again, it must be pointed out that this is all Cat Rector's masterful skill at weaving in voice and perspective in a way that Sigyn feels tangible and real-- like an actual person you want to reach out towards and envelop in an embrace. She is resilient, she is kind, she is strong and she's everything I ever wanted in a dark fantasy protagonist and more.
While I do, heavily, recommend this book from Hel (eh
I do not say this lightly. It's very hard for a book to sink itself into my bones and make a home out of me. It's even harder for a book of this length to accomplish all of that, and yet Cat Rector did it.
Okay, so what is this book about? Sigyn is the daughter of Odin, jack of all trades but master of nothing (not by choice) who seeks out guidance and help and finds it in the mischievous, daring and handsome Loki, renowned for mischief and lies. In their encounters they eventually fall in love and we watch them grow, fall apart and re-shape their love into something, perhaps not whole, but real and tangible.
Love never is as pretty as the songs make it out to be after all.
I think the thing that mostly grips me about this book and does not let me go is how immersive this is. Rector's writing style manages to capture such elegance and grace that is not easily bestowed on anyone. This truly feels like a great, big fantasy epic in all senses of the word. The world is lush and vibrant, descriptions made in such a manner that I could perfectly picture them in my head.
(And may I suggest accompanying this book with various atmospheric music compilations such as "Dark Fantasy music" and the likes? They really add to the atmosphere)
The characters are remarkable, all real and rounded in many different ways. They are kind, they are cruel, they are lively, they are frustrating, they are magical, they are painful-- Rector's evocation for characters in all of their facets gives way for a myriad of characters that feel alive and real, all believable in all of their triumphs and failures.
My favorite aspect of this novel is Sigyn herself, because as she progresses in the narrative one can really feel the change in attitude/tone in her voice. Once again, it must be pointed out that this is all Cat Rector's masterful skill at weaving in voice and perspective in a way that Sigyn feels tangible and real-- like an actual person you want to reach out towards and envelop in an embrace. She is resilient, she is kind, she is strong and she's everything I ever wanted in a dark fantasy protagonist and more.
While I do, heavily, recommend this book from Hel (eh
ksiazkowisko's review against another edition
5.0
I have an ebook and decided to buy a physical copy as well (even though it is a tad expensive for my wallet as I live in Poland). This book took my heart and tore it to shreads. A beautiful depiction of loyalty, poisonous love and how a dysfunctional relationship with a liar can shatter one's life. I'm still sobbing in the corner.