MAAAAGNUS! Magnus Chase and The Sword of The Summer

Magnus Chase and The Sword of Summer Book One
Written by Rick Riordan
Fantasy, Adventure, Mythology
Published October 6th 2015
528 Pages
Thank you to Penguin Teen Australia
Add to Goodreads
★★★★
Magnus Chase has always been a troubled kid. Since his mother's mysterious death, he's lived alone on the streets of Boston, surviving by his wits, keeping one step ahead of the police and the truant officers.

One day, he's tracked down by an uncle he's never met, a man his mother claimed was dangerous. His uncle tells him an impossible secret, Magnus is the son of a Norse god.

The Viking myths are true. The gods of Asgard are preparing for war. Trolls, giants and worse monsters are stirring for doomsday. To prevent Ragnarok, Magnus must search the Nine Worlds for a weapon that has been lost for thousands of years.

When an attack by fire giants forces him to choose between his own safety and the lives of hundreds of innocents, Magnus makes a fatal decision.

Sometimes, the only way to start a new life is to die...
The formidable streets of Boston is where sixteen year old Magnus Chase calls home, since the death of his mother two years prior. The city is cold and unforgiving but with close friends and homeless duo Blitz and Hearth taking the teen under their wing, Magnus still manages to feel a sense of home and security. Until he's violently accosted for a heritage he knows nothing about. Magnus is the offspring of a Norse God, killed fighting a Fire Lord and transported to an afterlife hotel by what seems to be an apparition on a Pegasus. Magnus isn't having a great day.

Ragnarok is brewing. An otherworldly war in which the gods of Asgard will contend against monsters who are hell bent on destroying the world. Like all heroes that have paved the way, the responsibility rests upon the shoulders of one Magnus Chase who just may have died in order to save the world.

Ponderings of a booknerd

Ever since discovering the wonderful world of Camp Half Blood and Percy Jackson, I've been an avid Rick Riordan fan. He's a phenomenal author who creates a wanderlust within readers to explore magical new worlds. Magnus Chase and The Sword of The Summer brings back the delight of discovering a new series that has the makings to be on every young adult bookshelf. It's funny, sassy and shows why Rick Riordan is one of the world's best modern day authors for the young and young at heart.

The characters are incredible and incredibly diverse. From Valkyrie Samirah, or Sam as she's better known. Sam is a feisty Muslim girl who breaks down the stereotypes of how western society sees and depicts her culture. She's the offspring of Norse god Loki and recruits heroes into the afterlife where they prepare for war. Until she meets Magnus... And it seems she may have made a terrible mistake. But Sam isn't a love interest for Magnus, she's betrothed to someone else and it makes an incredible dynamic between the two. By far my two favourites were Blitzen and Hearthstone, the duo posing as two homeless men in order to keep Magnus safe. Blitz is a dwarf with a keen eye for fashion while Hearth is an Elf who uses sign language to communicate. Both characters bring such a lightheartedness and warmth to the storyline, comparable to Grover's character in Percy Jackson and The Olympians.

For some reason, Blitz had donned a broad brimmed hat and sunglasses along with his black trench coat, so he looked like a grungy, very short Italian priest. In his gloved hands he wielded a fearsome wooden dowel with a bright yellow sign that read make way for ducklings.

And of course Annabeth Chase. For those who are yet to discover Riordan's world, Annabeth is the heroine from Percy Jackson and The Olympians series and cousin of Magnus in which her minor cameo appearances will be sure to delight fans.

I really enjoyed it. It felt a little more mature than Percy Jackson and The Olympians but still preserved that unique and cheeky humour that we've come to expect from Rick Riordan. The references to his former series really add a warm familiarity throughout the storyline. As much as I loved The Sword of Summer, it just felt as though there was something missing. The pacing felt a little off towards the latter half of the book but only a minor objection to what truly was an incredible read.

the final verdict

A realistic hero. Norse mythology. Humour, sarcasm and sass. The Sword of The Summer really is a brilliant adventure fantasy young adult read. Riordan is back to his best, weaving an incredible storyline with likable characters who are as diverse as they are developed. Entertainment in it's purest form and I'm so incredibly excited to see where Rick Riordan takes the series.

42 comments

  1. I never could make myself finish any of Riordan's series, even though I enjoyed the few books I did red. Never knew why because I love mythology! *sigh* I love the sound of Magnus Chase and The Sword of The Summer. Think I'm gonna have to purchase an audiobook copy whenever (or if) it becomes available! Sounds like a great book to listen to. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You couldn't finish Percy Jackson? Oh no Sarah. I absolutely adore that series and it really gets better and better with each book as the characters mature as well. This is more young adult than his previous series though, so it'll appeal to a wider audience too. I would love to see what you think of it Sarah.

      Delete
  2. I like that it sounds a bit more mature, probably makes it a bit different from the other series.So many lovely reviews for this one.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It does Lily. I was a massive fan of Percy Jackson and while the humour is still there, the character ages and situations are more young adult which I think will appeal to those who loved the last two in the Percy Jackson series especially.

      Delete
  3. I'm reading this right now and I'm really enjoying it!!! I love Rick Riordan's books (I just started reading them like this year). So far I'm impressed with his accurate representation of Norse Mythology(so far). I've studied Norse history for two years now and it gets very confusing.Great Review, I'm glad you liked it and you are right his books are for the young and the young at heart.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I only started reading his books last year too Taylor and fell in love with Percy Jackson, such an incredible series. I didn't know much about Norse mythology, but I didn't know much about Greek mythology either. The great thing about Rick Riordan is that you don't really need to know because he infuses little bits of information throughout his books that you pick up along the way. I'm really looking forward to seeing what you think of it too, especially compared to what you're studying.

      Delete
  4. YES. I am so glad you liked this so much Kelly! To be completely honest, I’ve been a bit hesitant about reading this when it comes out because I’m worried that it won’t be quite as good as the Percy Jackson series, but you’ve eased my fears. (Although, I felt the same way when I started Heroes of Olympus, and, alas, look where I am now). So glad that Annabeth is in this (my spirit character TBH) and that there were some Percy Jackson cameos as well. Thanks for sharing Kelly and, as always, fabulous review! ♥

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I was worrying about exactly the same thing too Zoe. Although it wasn't as awesome as Percy Jackson, but it was still pretty good. I liked Magnus but couldn't really connect with him the same way either. But the humour is still there and it's a great read. I'm really looking forward to where he takes the series.

      Delete
  5. I AM SO, SO EXCITED TO READ THIS ONE! Definitely *grabbing* a copy if I head to the bookstore this weekend. :D Rick Riordan's humor is definitely spot-on, and I can't wait to get back into his writing. I've seen a few status updates from GR friends shipping Magnus and Sam though, so I'm a bit curious about where I'm going to stand on that. And duh, I'm in it for all the Percy Jackson references. ;) Awesome review, Kelly! So glad you enjoyed this one!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Aimee. I didn't see anything beyond friendship between them, not to give too much away. But then again, Percy and Annabeth weren't exactly making mushy heart eyes at one another at the start either. I can't wait for you to grab a copy and see what you think of it, I hope you love it as much as I did poppet.

      Delete
  6. Just finished this and YES YES YES YES YES!!!
    You're SO RIGHT!!! I loved Sam SO MUCH! I loved that he included this diversity and broke down that stereotypes. Plus, HOW HILARIOUS WAS THE BOOK?!
    The sarcasm and the banter and the CHAPTER TITLES sent me into laughing spasms!!!!! They were such vivid characters and I LOVED IT SO MUCH!!!
    Such an accurate review, Kelly!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I loved Sam, even more so than Magnus actually. Not just her character but what she represented too. The chapter titles were the best I've ever seen in any book. My goodness, so incredibly funny! I'm so glad you loved this too Faith.

      Delete
  7. I've never read this series and I'm beginning to think that that's a huge mistake, Kelly! I must change that ASAP! I love how this one portrays a muslim girl and attempts to fight stereotypes through her. Also, yes to humor in books! It makes the reading experience so much more fun.
    I'm going to go hunt down the Percy Jackson books.
    Beautiful review, Kelly!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. This is actually his new series Nick, which sounds pretty similar to his former series in Percy Jackson too, but with Norse god's rather than the Greek variety. And Sam was such a brilliant character, it's just what the storyline needed. Actually a little disappointed that it wasn't her series actually.

      Delete
  8. I haven't read anything by Rick Riordan, but I got Percy Jackson #1 last December and I've been meaning to crack it open. I think I just wanted to allocate some space, so if I love it, I can binge. But who am I kidding? My TBR is always overflowing and full... Anyway, this sounds great and very fun! Might have to look into this after I've read his other series, if I ever do get round to them. *falls into sea of books, falls fast asleep*

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh yes! You must read it, it's one of the, if not the best middle grade series you'll ever read. You don't have to have read Percy Jackson to enjoy this series though, some of the familiarity will endear readers though. I'd recommend starting with Percy. It's still one of my favourite series to date.

      Delete
  9. I LOVED, LOVED, LLUURVEDD Percy Jackson mocies even though I've never picked up the books. (Totally all my fault and yes, I give you permission to judge) I agree that Riorden is really talented and one of the best authors around since he has the awesome mental capability to be able to create such world's such as these and have readers soooo captivated! Epic review boo!♡

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The movies really don't do the book series justice, they are absolutely brilliant and so much more different and really well written. Oh you must pick them up Keionda, I can almost guarantee you'll fall in love with Percy all over again.

      Delete
  10. Looking forward to this ...... liking the sound of maturity in this series.

    Great review:)
    Aparajita @Le' Grande Codex

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Aparajita. It really was an awesome read and so excited to see where Riordan plans on taking the series too.

      Delete
  11. Everyone is so excited about this book, meanwhile I'm over here like . . . I haven't even read any of his titles yet lol. I think I may give this a go, especially since I don't feel like trying to play catch up with the Percy Jackson series. I can finally start with one of his books, and read it along with everyone else. I don't want to feel left out anymore! lol

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. None? Oh Tika, what am I going to do with you. The great thing about the Magnus Chase series, is that you don't have to have read any of his former titles to enjoy it and it's such a great read. I'd still highly recommend the Percy Jackson series though and will keep nagging you now until you cave in and read it.

      Delete
  12. ACK I cannot. Even. Wait. For this book. Not to mention all the other ones coming out like Illuminae. TOO MANY AWESOME BOOKS, KEL.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I know right! 2015 is year of the young adult. So many phenomenal books already out and still to be released. This is right up there with them too.

      Delete
  13. This sounds like such a fun book. I can never get enough adventure! I'll be sure to pick this up :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Me either Ana and Rick Riordan does adventure so well doesn't he. And congratulations again on your beautiful new bub. So incredibly precious.

      Delete
  14. Dangggit. I need to read A BOOK by this author. Just one freaking book. Because then maybe I'll be able to share everybody's enthusiasm for them. Le sigh.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You haven't read Percy Jackson Joy? Ohh, you really are missing out. He's a brilliant author who just seems to go from strength to strength. And I heard during the week that he is bringing out yet another new series set in Percy Jackson's world. I'm so excited I could almost pee myself.

      Delete
  15. I haven't read anything by this author, but I know the Percy Jackson series is very popular. That's cool that this is the same world and that one of the characters makes an appearance.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The Percy Jackson series really is incredible, I liked it a lot more than Mangus Chase, but this is still an awesome read regardless. Hopefully you find the urge to pick up one or the other soon Christy, would love to see what you think of them.

      Delete
  16. Yessss how freaking entertaining and hilarious was this book? I loved the characters so much, one of the most hilarious dynamic duos I've ever met. Annabeth's cameo was fantastic too!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I loved the familiarity that Annabeth brought to the storyline too Jeann, I think it added that extra layer of awesome and hope that we can see more Percy Jackson fused throughout the series too.

      Delete
  17. I've never read anything by Rick! I'm really glad you liked his latest though. That's awesome! I like books that good humor too.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Me too Lauren and it's brilliantly woven throughout too. I can't recommend him highly enough and would love to see what you think of this one too.

      Delete
  18. I've tried reading the very first book of the original series but I couldn't get into it for some reason, but you guys are totally giving me enough reason to reconsider. If an author and its fans want so much more of this world and books are continuously written and continuously satisfy their cravings, then something great is at work here. Will give Lightning Thief a try again so I can get to this baby!

    Faye at The Social Potato

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh no Faye, you need to give the series another try. Please. I'm not above begging. It's one of the best series you'll ever read. So, so funny and just really lovely. I'd love to see you make it through at least book one and see what you think of it.

      Delete
  19. Confession : I've never read any Rick Riordan book.

    I've always wanted to read Percy Jackson, but for some reason, I never got into the series. But I really want to try at least one book by him, since most of my blogger buddies adore him and his books!
    Fantastic review as always, Kell!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You must rectify this immediately Mishma! I suggest a treatment of Percy Jackson, taken in large doses and taken several times daily. Come back and see me when you've eaten book one.

      Delete
  20. Aaaah I need to read this. I have it on my kindle, even though I have the paperback on its way to me, because I think I'll be on a plane when I finally get to starting it *sigh* there's just too many books (the struggle is real this month lol so many exciting things!)

    I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it, hopefully that feeling something is missing will disappear with the next one? I do love Riordan, but he's got a couple of books that make me pull a face because there's just...something. Maybe he needs more fairy dust to sprinkle on those words :)

    - Wattle @ Whimsical Nature

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I know how you feel Wattle, there are so many incredible young adult books that are being released int he next few months especially, but not nearly enough time to read them all. I Loved Percy Jackson, but wasn't a big fan of his other two series. It just felt as though he was trying a little too hard to recreate that magic. But luckily now he's back to his best.

      Delete
  21. I'm glad you like it! I'm not sure whether to read this book or not, since I LOVE PJO/HOO but I didn't really like Kane Chronicles. But my friend just finished this book and she highly recommended this book for me. She said this book is better that PJO. Great review!

    Tasya @ The Literary Huntress

    ReplyDelete
  22. Omg I loved Magnus! And I got a signed copy! Which made it a million times more special. I love love love PJO and Hoo and the Kane chronicles and was Si happy when I finally got Magnus! I absolutely can't wait for the newest series the trials of Apollo to come out!!!

    ReplyDelete

© Diva Booknerd. Design by Fearne.