Overview

The Witch’s Heart retells a well known strand of Norse myth from the point of view of Angrboda, a witch and giantess who is burned three times and left for dead. She survives and hides deep in the forest, living quietly until Loki returns her stolen heart. From there, Angrboda builds a life shaped by love, magic, and resistance, raising her children Hel, Fenrir, and Jormungand far from the gods who fear them. The story moves toward the shadow of Ragnarok, but it never loses sight of the woman at its centre.

Writing & Voice

We found Gornichec’s writing rich and thoughtful, with a calm confidence that suits the mythic setting. The language is clear and evocative, especially in the forest scenes where Angrboda finds a fragile peace. The pace is measured, giving space for emotion and reflection before the larger mythic events begin to close in. When the story turns toward prophecy and conflict, the shift feels earned rather than abrupt.

Characters

Angrboda is a powerful and deeply human protagonist. She is shaped by pain, but also by fierce love and an instinct to protect. Her relationship with Loki is complicated, tender, and dangerous in equal parts. Their children are treated not as symbols, but as individuals with curiosity, fear, and wonder. Side characters such as Skadi and Sigyn add further depth, showing different ways of surviving within a world ruled by gods.

Themes

This book explores fate, choice, and the cost of being named a monster. It asks who gets to tell the story, and what is lost when voices like Angrboda’s are pushed aside. Motherhood is central, not as softness, but as strength and strategy. The novel also looks closely at prophecy, and whether knowing the future is a gift or a curse.

What Worked

• Fresh perspective: a familiar myth retold from the margins.
• Emotional focus: the story remains intimate even as the stakes grow.
• Strong central voice: Angrboda carries the novel with quiet force.

Minor Quibbles

• The early pacing is slow and may test impatient readers.
• Readers looking for constant action may find the reflective tone unexpected.

Final Thoughts

The Witch’s Heart is a moving and thoughtful retelling that places love, grief, and power at the centre of myth. It gives space to a woman long pushed aside and lets her story speak with clarity and strength.

Rating: ★★★★½☆ (4.5 / 5)