North is the Night ✨ Death gods, witch queens, and sisterhood in a haunting Finnish-inspired fantasy

Looking for a fantasy read steeped in folklore and emotional depth? North is the Night by Emily Rath blends mythic storytelling, atmospheric worldbuilding, and two compelling lead characters into a tale that explores life, death, and the lengths we go to for love.

Inspired by Finnish mythology and set in the snow-draped mortal realm and the eerie land of the dead, Tuonela, this novel explores two narratives: one sister lost to death, and the other willing to risk everything to get her back. If you’re a fan of death gods, magical tattoos, and found family dynamics, this one might just charm you.

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In the Finnish wilderness, more than wolves roam the dark forests. For Siiri and Aina, summer’s fading light is a harbinger of unwelcome change. Land-hungry Swedes venture north, threatening the peace; a zealous Christian priest denounces the old ways; and young women have begun to disappear.

Siiri vows to protect Aina from danger. But even Siiri cannot stop a death goddess from dragging her friend to Tuonela, the mythical underworld. Determined to save Aina, Siiri braves a dangerous journey north to seek the greatest shaman of legend, the only person to venture to the realm of death and return alive.

In Tuonela, the cruel Witch Queen turns Aina’s every waking moment into a living nightmare. But armed with compassion and cleverness, Aina learns the truth of her capture: the king of the underworld himself has plans for her. To return home, Aina must bargain her heart—as Siiri plots a daring rescue of the woman she loves the most.

North is the Night thrives on its emotionally resonant characters. While both of our POV characters have strong arcs, Aina stood out as the most compelling lead. Her journey through Tuonela is quieter but richer, full of strategic thinking, emotional growth, and slow revelations. Her chapters felt like unravelling an ancient tale, piece by piece.

Siiri, on the other hand, delivers action, rage, and urgency. Her desperation to save her Aina propels her through treacherous terrain and emotional turmoil, creating a dynamic contrast to Aina’s internal struggle.

The real scene-stealers, though, are the death gods Tuoni and Vainnomen. They aren’t simple villains. They’re tragic, burdened by fate, and aching for freedom. Their grey morality gives the novel a unique emotional edge.

Special mention also goes to the evolving relationships: Siiri’s unexpected bond with the bear-shaman, and Aina’s emotional connection with Loviathor, both blossoming into heartfelt found-family dynamics.

North is the Night follows two interconnected plotlines: Siiri journeys through a frostbitten world to find a shaman who can help her cross into the land of the dead and rescue Aina. Whilst Aina is trapped in Tuonela, the mythic underworld, uncovering truths about the death gods, the Witch Queen, and her own fate.

This dual structure creates a well-paced rhythm: Siiri’s journey is full of tension and external conflict, while Aina’s arc offers introspection and mystery. Together, they build a story of sacrifice, sisterhood, and survival against otherworldly odds.

Emily Rath’s prose feels like a folktale in motion. Lyrical, atmospheric, and deeply rooted in myth. The world of Tuonela is vividly brought to life, with glowing riverbanks, echoing halls, and shadowy rituals.

While the writing occasionally slows during the more introspective scenes, it suits the novel’s overall tone being dreamlike, dark, and enchanting. Siiri’s chapters feel more visceral and fast-paced, while Aina’s are gentle, quiet, and reflective.

The novel explores several weighty themes such as love and sacrifice take centre stage, expressed through family, friendship, and found family. Grief and fate are woven throughout, particularly in how characters grapple with their destinies and losses. The afterlife is depicted as both a place of punishment and potential rebirth, tying into larger discussions about death, legacy, and power.

The shaman magic, including tattoos and ritual drums, adds a distinct cultural layer to the novel’s exploration of witchcraft and spiritual belief.

North is the Night is a beautifully written, mythologically rich novel that blends emotional depth with atmospheric worldbuilding. While not perfect, it’s a strong, thoughtful fantasy that leaves the door open for sequels and deeper explorations of this fascinating world.

This book fits squarely in mythic and folklore-inspired fantasy. It’s ideal for readers who enjoy:

• Finnish or Norse mythology
• Soft magic systems
• Emotional, character-driven storytelling
• Atmospheric settings over fast-paced action

If you liked The Witch’s Heart by Genevieve Gornichec or Gods of Jade and Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia, this may be your next great read.

Positives of North is the Night

• Aina’s intelligent and emotionally resonant POV
• Morally grey death gods with compelling backstories
• Rich Finnish-inspired worldbuilding (Tuonela, shamanism)
• A bear shaman! And an excellent found family dynamic
• Strong themes of sacrifice, destiny, and different kinds of love
• Beautiful folktale-style prose that fits the mythic tone

Negatives of North is the Night

• Siiri’s arc leans into more familiar fantasy tropes
• Uneven pacing between the two POVs
• The living world could have been more fleshed out
• Some may find the slower, dreamlike tone too gentle compared to action-heavy fantasies

I received North is the Night by Emily Rath from the publisher. This is an unbiased and honest review

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