Loki: WICKED, VISCERAL, TRANSGRESSIVE: Norse gods as you've never seen them before

Loki is a novel by Melvin Burgess that retells Norse myths and the story of the trickster god Loki. It is a contemporary retelling that is witty, insightful, and relatable, and it calls for a new era ruled by love and intelligence.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 17 November 2022
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

Loki: A Spirited Retelling of Norse Myths

Melvin Burgess, the acclaimed Carnegie Prize-winning author of "Junk," has crafted a captivating and witty retelling of Norse myths in his debut adult novel, "Loki." This spirited narrative takes readers on a thrilling journey through the ancient fir-tree forests of Scandinavia, where legends are as epic as those of the Greeks and Romans.

Burgess' prose is electrifying, crackling with a mischievous charge. It is a literary masterpiece that showcases his exceptional talent for storytelling. From the very first page, the reader is drawn into a world of myth, magic, and adventure, as Loki, the trickster god, takes center stage.

"Loki" begins with the Norse creation myths, where the gods, the founders of Asgard, defeat races of monsters and establish their dominion over the realm. Burgess masterfully weaves together a tapestry of famous stories, including the treacherous theft of the corrupting gold ring, the murder of Baldr, the god of love and the Sun, and the epic battle between Loki and Thor.

However, what sets "Loki" apart from traditional narratives is its unreliable narrator, Loki himself. Born within the heart of a fire in the hollow of a tree-trunk, Loki arrives in Asgard as an outsider. He is a trickster, an unreliable narrator, the god of intelligence and politics. Despite his cleverness and sparkling wit, Loki struggles to find his place among the old patriarchal gods of supernatural power and is constantly at odds with the god of thunder, Thor.

Through Loki's eyes, readers are privy to the inner workings of Asgard, the politics, and the power struggles that shape the realm. Burgess' portrayal of the gods is both nuanced and complex, revealing their flaws, weaknesses, and motivations. Thor, the mighty god of thunder, is portrayed as a powerful and righteous figure, driven by his duty to protect Asgard and the universe. However, his arrogance and pride often lead him to make rash decisions and disregard the consequences.

On the other hand, Loki is a fascinating character who defies convention. He is a master of manipulation, deception, and subterfuge, using his wit and intelligence to outwit his opponents. However, his motives are often selfish and self-serving, and he is willing to go to great lengths to achieve his goals.

"Loki" is a mischievous, unpredictable, and clever book that breathes new life into an already fascinating character and godly race. Burgess' writing is masterful, with his prose flowing effortlessly and his storytelling engaging and captivating. The book is filled with vivid descriptions, intricate plotlines, and memorable characters, making it a must-read for fans of mythology, fantasy, and adventure.

In conclusion, "Loki" by Melvin Burgess is a remarkable achievement in adult literature. It is a spirited retelling of Norse myths that is witty, insightful, and filled with adventure. Burgess' exceptional prose and masterful storytelling make this book a must-read for anyone who loves mythology, fantasy, or adventure. With its rich tapestry of characters, intricate plotlines, and vivid descriptions, "Loki" transports readers to a world of myth, magic, and adventure, where legends come to life and the gods themselves are revealed in all their glory.

Weight: 388g
Dimension: 144 x 224 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399701525