This volume contains three individual, young adult novels: 1) Thor: Dueling with Giants, 2) Sif: Even Dragons Have Their Endings, and 3) Warriors Three: Godhood’s End. I originally purchased the first two separately, but the publisher never released the third book, opting instead for this omnibus (which really annoyed me!).

All three books merge elements from the Marvel Universe with the original myths. So, Loki is an adopted son of Odin (comics), rather than his blood brother (myths), but readers also get Idunn and her Apples. The trilogy is YA, but I would hedge more toward the tween end of the spectrum than other YA novels in the Marvel line. The plots are basic adventure stories; there is some bloodhsed and Fandral’s womanizing nature (with married women, natch!) is subtlety referred to a couple times but overall there's little objectionable in the material.

1) THOR
The story is original in that it isn’t based on any particular aspect of the myth or comics, but it is very simple to satisfy a younger audience, and quite honestly, me. After Loki sneaks some trolls into Asgard, he’s “grounded” by Odin. What seems like a light punishment quickly becomes unbearable for the God of Mischief, and he promptly sneaks out to cause further trouble. He manipulates the giant Hrungir into battling Thor, but then is dismayed when the giant kidnaps Queen Frigga!

The characters are significantly toned down, but still true to the familiar personalities. Loki is much more mischievous than evil, and Odin less hot-tempered and bullying than he’s usually portrayed. The story was fun, with lots of action. It was a quick read for an adult, but enjoyable none-the-less.

2) SIF
Thor is still recovering from injuries sustained in his battle with Hrungir when a boy comes seeking aid from a dragon who has attacked his village. It is up to Lady Sif to save the people! This story was surprising because it overtly addresses sexism, specifically that which Sif faces as a female warrior. Asgard may be advanced, but they are still mediaeval in many ways. Sif and Hilde, the teen daughter of Volstagg, head to the village where the Elders are unhappy to see her rather than Thor.

The dragon is more than he seems and has a specific purpose in his attacks. Sif has to use her intelligence and cunning, as well as her skills in battle, to find out what is going on and to stop the dragon. I’ve always liked Sif as a character, but felt the comics gave her short thrift. So, this story was satisfying for showing her heroism separate from Thor. I also liked her relationship with Hilde, who learns valuable lessons from Sif throughout the tale. Another quick, but enjoyable read.

3) WARRIORS THREE
Thor and Sif are both recovering from injuries, so when Asgard is at risk once again, the Warriors Three are called to action. Frost Giant Thjasse has taken over for Hrungir, and he’s just a wee bit smarter. Instead of attacking the Aesir head on, he comes up with a plan to steal the Golden Apples of Immortality thereby making the gods weak and frail. After convincing Lorelei to use her magic to make him look like Loki, he steals the apples. Only, Loki has been up to some separate mischief that makes the situation even more dire. Only the Warriors Three have the strength to confront Thjasse.

This was my least favorite of the trilogy, mainly because the story dragged. The heroes encounter three obstacles on the way to confront the Frost Giants, requiring each of the warriors in turn to save the situation and take the spotlight. The story subsequently has a lot of action, including a long sword fight for Frandral, but it was mostly spinning in place. Moreover, there was too much emphasis on Volstagg; his boasting wore thin quickly. However, I suspect this wouldn’t be a problem for the target audience. He’s funny, a bit of comic relief, which young readers would probably embrace more than I did. I still like his character, I just think he was emphasized too much. This was an enjoyable read, and I am always glad to have more Loki in a story.

Overall, this trilogy was a fund read, with some action and adventure. Though I prefer Pat Shand’s writing for Marvel novels, DeCandido’s trilogy is absolutely worth reading. ( )