Dreamin’ Reviews: Through Fantasy: A Reflection on The Raven Rings Trilogy by Siri Pettersen
Introduction
This is my first fantasy fiction blog. In the world of real life, I tend to gravitate toward fiction as a way to adventure beyond my logical brain and daily responsibilities. Fantasy fiction gives me permission to imagine, to explore, and to reconnect with the deeper energies that run beneath ordinary life.
The book series I would like to review is The Raven Rings, a trilogy by Norwegian author Siri Pettersen. The three books, Odin’s Child, The Rot, and The Might, swept my imagination into a rich landscape inspired by Norwegian culture and Norse mythology. As I journeyed through green valleys, misty mountains, and herbalist healers alongside the main character, Hirka, I found myself crossing into three interconnected worlds filled with mystery, identity, and transformation.
Why Fantasy Fiction Belongs in Caught Dreamin’
Some might wonder: Why write about fantasy fiction instead of an evidence-based practice or the latest groundbreaking therapy?
For me, the answer is simple. Caught Dreamin’ was born out of vision, literally. JoAnne, the founder and owner of Caught Dreamin’ Therapy, experienced a daydream in which she saw a raven. That raven reminded her of her late brother, Mark, and the incredible gift he brought to her and the world. The raven became a symbol, of creation, of guidance, of life’s enduring connection between the seen and unseen.
In The Raven Rings, the raven holds similar significance. It is a helper, a creator, a metaphor, a companion, a life saver, and a best friend, an anchor in a chaotic world. The trilogy feels deeply connected to the energy that inspired Caught Dreamin’ itself: a belief that healing often begins in the space between reality and imagination.
The Energy of the Trilogy
Pettersen’s world mirrors our own in surprising ways. The trilogy explores the concept of “The Might,”an inner and universal energy that connects all living things. In contrast, The Rot represents decay, fear, and disconnection, the forces that threaten to destroy that balance.
As I read, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to the energy shifts happening in our world today. Many of us sense this transformation, sometimes hopeful, sometimes unsettling. Like Hirka’s journey to heal The Might, we too are seeking balance, meaning, and renewal in a world that feels uncertain.
The raven, again, offers perspective. It invites us to rise above, to take a bird’s-eye view, and to see beyond our individual struggles. From that higher vantage point, we can rediscover our connection to something larger than ourselves.
The Power of Storytelling
Through storytelling, fantasy fiction becomes more than escapism—it’s a form of healing. It allows our imaginations to stretch, our emotions to move, and our spirits to remember what’s possible. In reading The Raven Rings, I found creative inspiration that spilled into my everyday routines and beliefs.
Fantasy fiction, like therapy, opens a doorway. It helps us find language for what we feel, and gives form to the unseen parts of our inner world.
Final Thoughts
I highly recommend the audio version of the trilogy, beautifully narrated by Siobhan Waring. Her ability to give each character a distinct and authentic voice brings Pettersen’s world to life.
If you’re up for an adventure—if you love fantasy, crave a Scandinavian escape, or feel drawn to the wisdom of ravens—this trilogy may speak to you as it did to me.
In the end, The Raven Rings reminds us that imagination itself is a kind of therapy. And perhaps, like JoAnne’s first vision of the raven, it is through our dreams and stories that we find the strength to heal, to create, and to truly be caught dreamin’.
Warmly and Mightily,
Jamie Fiorucci, LMSW 🌿
Disclaimer:
This blog is offered for general reflection and creative inspiration only. It is not intended as clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a therapeutic relationship with Caught Dreamin’ Therapy or the author. Any themes related to healing or mental health are shared from personal and professional perspective and should not be interpreted as individualized guidance. If you are seeking mental health support, please reach out to a qualified provider in your area or connect with our team through our contact page here.