This is a story of Norse Mythology and the history of Finn and his family. When a curse is put upon Finn when following his brothers he is now having to deal with becoming brave. The narrator was difficult for me to understand at first until I got used to the accent. An interesting story overall.
Thorfinn’s family was cursed by a witch down three generations. Two generations have succumbed to the curse before Thorfinn’s story began. A young boy of 10 Thorfinn must overcome people plotting to unalive him. His own clansman fear him and he is now an enemy. He must also accept his new fate of being a boy by day and ghost by night. This was a fascinating book. I enjoy history but have never really gotten into Norse culture aside from the Hollywood version. I’m sure the author did a lot of research to describe things so wonderfully. It was like a movie playing in my head as I was able to visualize everything. I can’t wait to see what the next adventure holds in this series.
I really like the story. The character development was strong, the characters each had a crucial role, and the ending wrapped everything together nicely. Listening to the book was challenging as at times I had a hard time figuring out who was talking as first person as it was told in different characters point of view but once you learned the narrators voices, it was much clearer. The narrator for the book was fantastic and was the perfect choice for this genre. I really felt like I was with the characters. Transition music was also nice as it set the tone for the next passage. Overall, I enjoyed the book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Such a fun book to listen to! I did not read the book first, so this was my first experience with it, but I loved it! I’m not a big history buff, but listening to it read by a narrator with an awesome accent that feels like old time story telling really captured my attention! Crazy story! Good characters, totally worth the time!
Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse by Jay Veloso Batista Narrated by Ulf Bjorklund 5 Stars This is the first book I have read/listened to by this author and he is an awesome storyteller. The detail in the characters was amazing. It had me wondering what to expect next. I was just the right length. The […]
Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse is book 1 of the Forerunner Series written by Jay Veloso Batista. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I was not disappointed. This book really had something for everyone! Vikings, gods and goddesses, paranormal beings, magic…a little bit of everything! The story was told from different perspectives, so you got to see different individuals’ points of view. The story covers Thorfinn and his encounter with a witch that caused his life to take a very different turn. The book included musical interludes which really added to the story. Also, the narrator could not have been any better, it’s like he was MADE to read this book to us. His voice provided a warm and whimsical air to the book. I highly recommend this book and look forward to continuing the series.
5/5
A fun Viking tale that you will enjoy listening to as you follow Thorinn on his adventure. He and his family have somehow irritated a witch who cast a curse on them. Talk about craziness. I read this on ebook. I really enjoyed it in audio. the soundtrack and narration really make it nice to lay down or sit back and just close your eyes and picture as you listen. The author does a fascinating job with details in his story and really brings out the details. I hope to see the rest of the series come out in audio.
5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What a gem!! Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse is Book 1 of the Forerunner Series and this was a fantastic audiobook. This story gave me Vikings, witches, curses and drama. I can say I’m looking forward to diving into this series more!
Told in multiple POVs…. This story is a about a family that is cursed and Finn is the main focus of this curse. Trying to navigate and learn the ways between realms.. will Finn be able to be courageous to save uncle…
Secrets and plots… definitely listen to find out. Great start to this series!
The narrator was perfect for this story and I loved the music that was added. It really brings the story to life.
Thorfinn is a young boy of 9 years and coming of age under the historical Viking lore. Along with magic, ghost’s, witches and paranormal events. He may be young, but his knowledge is powerful. Now he needs to grow long before he is ready. This is a very interesting story. I don’t care to read historical novels, this one caught my interest. The story is well written and pretty easy to follow. As well as educational if you are interested in this genre. You can tell the author is knowledgeable in Viking history and paranormal characters, as is clear in this story. This audible story is fun to listen to. This would make for long driving trips. As the story builds, so does your heartbeat. This is a great story all together. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. I look forward to the next book in this series.
Review@cinful
This is my first audio book by this author which I enjoyed listening to. It will take you on an adventure that you won’t soon forget. I enjoyed how the narrator used different tones to make the characters come to life. I enjoyed being pulled into the story from the start. The growth of the characters is great and I enjoyed how supportive they are of each other. A story that took me on an adventure that is full of action. It is a journey of an emotional connection that made the story hard to stop listening to. I look forward to picking up another audio by this author. I highly recommend this audiobook.
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~ ~ AUDIO BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ~ ~ ~ ~
Jay Veloso Batista is a published author of Historical Fantasy and Supernatural Suspense, technical non-fiction, poetry and role-playing games. The Forerunner Series includes ‘Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse,’ ‘The Vardoger Boy,’ ‘On Viking Seas,’ ‘Kara, Shieldmaiden of Eire (2022),’ ‘Mauraders in Jotunheim (2023),’ and ‘Voyage to Cordova (2024).’ Jay loves history, cycling and hiking, and good craft beer! A frequent traveler for business and pleasure, Jay has visited all 50 states and all of the continents except Antarctica, and the places he has frequented support his story craft. A father and grandfather, Jay lives on the eastern Delaware shore with his wife where they can kayak, swim in the ocean and eat lots of blue fin crabs! You can learn more about Jay at www.jayvelosobatista.com or on his Facebook Author page.
On Viking Seas by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5/5 Stars
On Viking Seas (Forerunner Series #3) by Jay Veloso Batista
Another fantastic read by the author. I’m hoping there’s more after this book. On Viking Seas is the third book in the Forerunner Series. It’s a great read and you’ll love it.
Cub is out and doing what he does best. Being a Viking. Now he’s got to prove he’s got what it takes. The quote I chose for Cub is: “Yea, yes, boss.”
Highly recommended for Historical Fantasy lovers.
The Vardoger Boy by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Vardoger Boy (Forerunner Series #2) by Jay Veloso Batista
This is another great read by the author. The Vardoger Boy is the second book in the Forerunner Series. We get to see characters from book 1. Highly recommended!
Finn is supposed to go upon a ship. When he does he realizes that the ship is haunted. Can he survive? The quote I chose for Finn is: “No, Raga, I have had enough adventures in the Realm Between. I don’t want any more such adventures, not me….”
Raga is Finn’s friend. He keeps his eye on Finn. He knows Finn better than anyone. The quote I chose for Raga is: “Poor little Finn. His uncle doesn’t know what to do, propping him up and shaking him awake. Look how groggy he is, lost without his hug, his soul dangling there in the river, clinging to the back of the boat. A boat troll, who would have thought the ship held a mast troll this far from the islands? They can be nasty…”
Highly recommended for Historical Fantasy lovers.
Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5/5 Stars
Thorfinn & The Witch’s Curse (Forerunner Series #1) by Jay Veloso Batista
This is the first book I’ve read by the author. Thorfinn & The Witch’s Curse is the first book in the Forerunner Series. It’s an amazing book and I can’t wait for more.
Yeru loves to tell her stories. So when she’s asked to tell the story of a legend she dives in. Everyone loves to listen and she loves to tell. The quote I chose for Yeru is: “In the dim time between the fall of Deria and Danelaw, the coast of Northumbria was ravaged by rovers. Vikings they were– Harbingers of the Great Army destined to conquer East Anglia, they arrived in long boats with carved wyrm or bear faced prows, fierce warriors with battle hardened mounts, Danes and Jutes, Nords, Frisians and sons of Skane, full of lust for blood and glory.”
Highly recommended for Historical Fantasy lovers.
Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5/5 Stars
Kara, Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner Series #4) by Jay Veloso Batista
This isn’t the first book I’ve read. Each book is more amazing than the last. Kara, Shieldmadien of Erie is the fourth book in the Forerunner Series.
Kara is on a boat trying to find a place. When her boat is told to leave she gets off. There she’s a fighter and a good one. The quote I chose for Kara is: “Bregans, eh? Thor’s goats, a nasty lot— think this skirmish lasts?”
Highly recommended for Historical Fantasy lovers.
Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved that at the beginning of the book, there was a summary of what has happened in the first three books of this series. This was very helpful for me since I started on this book, number four. Kara wants to be a warrior, not settled down in an arranged marriage. With this in mind, she runs away in order to fight in the battle. Does Kara have what it takes to become an amazing warrior and for those around her to see her more than just a girl? This was a fun, action packed, mystical book. The characters were easy to like and the story kept you reeled in.
Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Having the ultimate pleasure of starting this series recently has been a blast, and as always, I enjoyed the continuation of this family’s adventures. Meeting the twists and turns, and being hanked to a halt with the multiple cliffhangers leaves readers anxiously awaiting the author’s next move. All of these characters have been a joy to experience, and without adding any spoilers, we await your next move, Batista.
This Viking tale starts off with Thorfinn, a young boy in a Viking family. He is shy and a little timid, but as he goes through this tale he starts learning and growing into his own. the fact that this story isn’t all about fighting, wars, and gruff men in battle is a plus as well. There are ancient Viking rituals and celebrations as you would imagine, and a Viking wedding ceremony that was very interesting to read about. The author does such a good job of putting the story together and making the words flow together, even though it is very much an old language and could easily be the hardest part to read through.
Ultimately this story reminded me of the Witcher series, the last wish. The history and storytelling of the Vikings and this series are so good. However, It was in multiple POVs and continuously switching, if you were not into the story, that could be intimidating.
The story starts with Thorfinn when he and his brothers’ adventure and go too far by waking an ancient crone atop a crumbling tower, which in turn, brings a curse upon them. As Thorfinn continues to see and hear things he shouldn’t because of the ghost and his curse. It seems it may not have been a curse. Thorfinn grows into himself rapidly and you can see the character growth and his thoughts change from sweet and innocent to something else. As Thorfinn attempts to put everything back and somehow make it right again, he ends up with unexpected results and consequences for not just him, but his family line.
Under the elder spirit, Raga, centuries old and a character all their own – appears to Thorfinn and his family as a black old raven, who has seen better days. Guided by Raga, Thorfinn quickly navigates his way from the existing, and what seems as the real world of Midgard and the Realm Between.
It was at times hard to get through due to the running on of the story sometimes, with too much description, long chapters, and never-ending pages. Reading it was smooth and easy enough but took some time.
I would still recommend it.
Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Although I am happy that all of the kids live and survive, the trials and tribulations they go through I couldn’t imagine my kids surviving. Finn is still my favorite character. He’s young and has a lot to learn but he has such a big heart. Probably one of the most selfless characters in the book. Kara I’d becoming her own woman and finding her way. After seeing how most people are during this time I admire Agne even more. He chose to pay for everyone who worked his land and helped his household when most took slaves. He treated the women decently and made sure his workers were well kept. I hope that Gurid and her family can rebuild and reunite. Can’t wait for book 5.
On Viking Seas by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This has been the best book in the series so far. Following Finn on his adventures is amazing. He serves his uncle Well and his father would have been proud. Each kid has been brave during these times. My heart broke for Finn when he found out about his father. The family has had to endure a lot and each member has been finding their strength and digging deep to survive. I hope Mae is truly happy and that Kara finds her happiness. I was super displeased by Gurids brother and sister in law. I thought they would’ve been more helpful. Hopefully Gurid will be okay after Kara’s actions. I cannot wait for the next book.
The Vardoger Boy by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I’m definitely hooked on this series. I love Finn. He may be the youngest son but in my opinion the bravest. The second book broke my heart. The family is definitely about to suffer. I just hope they are able to overcome and reunite again. Cub is extremely smart and brave. I’m glad he survived but I’m fearful of what awaits him.
Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
shieldmaiden-of-eire” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”>Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This book is great if you love Nordic history and a lot of detail. It is very well written and has lots of excitement and adventure in it. I would definitely recommend reading the first three books in the series first as it makes it easier to follow along.
Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I am absolutely blown away by the stunning writing of Jay Veloso Batista!! I felt completely immersed into this world and clamoring for more when it was over.
The Agneson clan goes through many a different battle throughout this amazing journey. Kara refuses an arranged marriage and wants to fulfill her destiny of being a warrior. She knows she can prove herself, but will it live up to her dreams? Cub and Thornfinn have their own action adventures and I cannot wait until the next book in this series because I need answers! This author does such an incredible job creating this world and then giving you no choice but to delve right into it. You’ll be so glad you picked up this 4th book as well as the entire Forerunner series!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Book 4 in the Forerunner Series continues with the adventures of Finn, Cub, and Kara. The Agneson clan is now scattered across the world. The focus is centered mainly around the adventures of Kara as she escapes to follow her dream of becoming a Viking warrior. She gains her place in the King of Dublinn’s ranks but soon finds that being a warrior is not what she expected it to be. Cub ventures off to Britany to join Rollo’s horde. Cub’s brother, Sorven, is fighting to survive in the Welsh mountains after being outlawed. Thorfinn is safe in a small fishing village but only temporarily because he gets kidnapped by an 8-armed giant.
The Forerunner series got better and better with each book as the stories of our intrepid Viking heroes continued. The attention to detail was superb and it was impossible to not feel as though you were there with the characters in that time period. The author did a fantastic job of creating characters that were lovable and easy to root for through their respective journeys. I loved reading about the Vikings, Norse Gods, and the supernatural. I highly recommend this series!
On Viking Seas by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Book Three in the Forerunner Series continues the stories from the first two books in the series. This book does not disappoint as it continues the stories of Finn and his supernatural friends, Kara, and Cub. Finn and his supernatural friends venture off into the dangerous and icy cold waters of the North in a snekke longboat. Kara is trying to escape being forced into an arranged marriage by proving herself as a as a brave shield maiden. Cub is desperately trying to escape slavery so that he can return to his family home. The adventures of our intrepid Viking heroes continue with more supernatural beings, folklore, and curses.
This book is full of action, adventure, challenges, drama, and danger. It does not disappoint and will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The author has done an amazing job of describing the Viking era complete with the myths, folklore, and traditions.
The Vardoger Boy by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Book Two in the Forerunner Series continues the story of young Finn who we were first introduced to in Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse. Finn is not alone in his journey as his father accompanies him as he learns the true meaning of being a Vardoger. Finn’s mother and siblings also play a very critical part in this story. Young Finn is still trying to grasp being half boy and half witch, and the battle he fought with the witch in his earlier story. Finn soon learns there are plenty of surprises he must face in the Nine Realms and finds he is suddenly faced with going up against another mystical being, the Werebear.
Book two not only follows the story of young Finn as it unfolds but introduces us to several other characters and tells us their individual stories. These stories set us up for the third Book in the Forerunner series which I cannot wait to read next!
Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Book One in the Forerunner Series is set in Ninth Century England and tells the story of young Finn who is living a regular Danelaw life. He goes about his day doing chores and following his brothers around as they tell grand tales of supernatural beings and ghostly curses. At the time the ghostly tales were being told young Finn never expected to have a real witch’s curse come alive and forever alter his life. After a mishap, he suddenly becomes a Vardoger and becomes haunted by his own forerunner ghost. Finn is a normal boy by day but at night he turns into a ghost that even his own clan members fear. He finds himself caught between the world of Midgard and another realm, known as the Realm Between. Finn finds that he must summon up the courage to defeat his numerous enemies and fight for his own life because of the numerous murder plots against him.
I loved the historical elements of this story and learning about Viking life, legends, food, weddings, and folklore. The author has clearly done a great deal of research which shows in the detail brought to life throughout the book. I enjoyed reading about Finn and seeing how his character grew and developed throughout the story. I especially loved the supernatural element that was crafted so well in the storyline because it added an extra element to the story. Very well written and a must read for anyone who enjoys both history and the supernatural.
Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Adventurous tale
This is the first book I have read from this author and the fourth book in The Forerunner Series. Thankfully there was some backstory provided so I didn’t feel lost at all. If anything, I now feel the need to go back and read from the first book. This is an historical adventure, set in the era of Vikings and has lots of action and battles. The imagery is amazing and it’s very easy to like Thorfinn and Kara.
Love a good fantasy adventure and this did not disappoint.