Magnus Chase and the Ship of the Dead by Rick Riordan

 
Title: The Ship of the Dead (Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard 3)
Author: Rick Riordan
Publisher: Puffin
Date of Publication: 3rd October 2017
Source: Purchased by reviewer

Synopsis:

Magnus Chase, son of Frey, the god of summer and health, isn't naturally inclined toward being a brave warrior. Still, with the help of his motley group of friends, he has achieved deeds he never would have thought possible. Now he faces his most dangerous trial yet.

Loki is free from his chains. He's readying Naglfar, the Ship of the Dead, complete with a host of giants and zombies, to sail against the Asgardian gods and begin the final battle of Ragnarok. It's up to Magnus and his friends to stop him, but to do so they will have to sail across the oceans of Midgard, Jotunheim, and Niflheim in a desperate race to reach Naglfar before it's ready to sail. Along the way, they will face angry sea gods, hostile giants, and an evil fire-breathing dragon. But Magnus's biggest challenge will be facing his own inner demons. Does he have what it takes to outwit the wily trickster god?

Review:

I read the Percy Jackson books years ago, and have had the first Magnus Chase book sitting on my shelf since it was released, but I only got to the series recently. I had forgotten how fun and entertaining Rick Riordan's writing is.

This series focuses on Norse mythology, with Asgardian gods, Valkyries, and the noble residents of Valhalla fighting giants, rival gods and Loki to save the world.

With more diversity than the Percy Jackson books, more readers will see themselves represented in the pages, which is always a good thing.

Heaps of fun with high stakes and some beautifully emotional moments, the entire series is worth picking up. Themes include forgiveness, grief, identity, and family - those we inherit, and those we choose.

This third instalment sees the heroes gearing up to face Loki and prevent Ragnarok. Again. While the focus is still on Magnus, we learn more about his friends, particularly the other residents of Floor 19 who've played minor roles thus far. Mallory, Halfblood and TJ all get their moment to shine, and we learn more about their backgrounds. Hearthstone and Blitzen are present, but not to the extent of previous books. This adventure takes place during Ramadan, so Samirah is helping save the world while fasting. There are also some beautiful moments between Magnus and Alex, who just might be my favourite.

There might just be an appearance from one of our favourite Greek demigods to look forward to as well.