Black Shield Maiden is a great epic historical debut.  The writing was simple, flowed well, and grabbed my attention, with anticipation at every corner.  I will say the ending was not what I expecting, and I don't necessarily agree with how the kingdom will be led, but I still enjoyed the book  I loved how realistic and the final ending was though.  Work in progress. There were several unexpected scenarios that I did not expect.  Action seemed to be quick too. I loved the incorporation of Viking and African cultures.  You get history, religion, heart, drama, violence, women empowerment and a love story.  I was surprised by how emotional it was.  I was rooting for some characters and wishing death at the hands of Alvtir on others. She was my favorite character, and the king was my least favorite.  There is adequate room for a sequel too.  I think this book should be more hype than it has.  Definitely worth checking out for anyone into YA and something different.

Narration was done very well.  Willow Smith has a great voice.  Although one character does sound like Lindsey Lohan.  I will say there was a lost opportunity to so accents for African and Viking characters.  I wouldn't have minded that historical context and it would have enhanced the experience.