Shield Maiden

"A rousing and romantic mythological fantasy that boasts a heroine with a generous spirit, an unshakable will and a dragon's fury."—H. M. Long, author of Hall of Smoke

"Casts a superb spell...Shimmering with detail, with a propulsive plot to match."—D. K. Fields, author of the Tales of Fenest series

"Fantastic fun...An entrancing story of power and peril, presenting a side to the sagas we have never seen before."—Ian Green, author of The Gauntlet and the Fist Beneath

"This Beowulf retelling is freshly inspired by its focus on a less-repeated part of the poem... Beowulf and mythology fans, especially young adults, will find this debut novel a fun read."—Library Journal

"Emmerichs’s plotting is commendably complex...exciting twists keep the pages turning. Fryda is admirably witty and resourceful and the dash of romance adds appeal. This should win Emmerichs many fans." —Publishers Weekly

"Emmerichs' debut is a fresh and exciting expansion to the epic of Beowulf...Fiercely written, Shield Maiden will have readers begging for more of this world."—Booklist

"After a languid start rich with character development, Emmerichs changes gears, skillfully juxtaposing high-stakes action and interpersonal drama with breezy banter and sharp wit. The intricate plot thrills and inspires, fashioning a hidden history that at once honors the original Old English poem and re-contextualizes the tale, conferring new relevance. Kindhearted and fiercely feminist."—Kirkus

"Subversive and action-packed from start to finish, Shield Maiden tells the story of Beowulf from a very different perspective."—Polygon

"Well-written and immaculately researched... An enjoyable and engaging read which encourages us to question the veracity of ancient stories about extraordinary heroes."—Historical Novel Society