To Love a Viking had a couple of battle scenes and escape scenes, along with some sword training and fight preparation, reminding the reader of the dedication and strength of these warriors. However, this story was really a peek into the lives of two women and the difficult decisions they had to make.
I felt so sorry for Ellisif and Dagar, two people who were pledged to marry and then ripped apart from each other. I thought that they both handled the situation admirably, even though it had broken their hearts. I was frustrated at times with Ellisif’s view of herself and her unwillingness to leave her abusive situation. But it was clear that she struggled with her thoughts and actions because of all of the years of abuse, making her feel unworthy and scared most of the time.
Inara was a strong woman and I was definitely confused as to why she was so resistant to her feelings for Hakon. However, as her background was explained in more depth as time went on, I hoped for her to be able to grab for the truth of what love should really be like between a man and a woman, rather than the lies that she had believed for so long.
This story was exciting to read and I enjoyed seeing Ellisif and Inara learn what love should really be like. I do have to admit to feeling a lot of anxiety as I read Ellisif’s story, as it is hard to read about a woman being treated badly both physically and verbally.
(4 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Series: Tavland Vikings #1
Publisher: WoodHaven Press
Release Date: June 27, 2022
Genre: Historical/Viking Romance, Christian
Get swept up in an enthralling new romance series featuring women who rule the hearts of Viking men.
ELLISIF~
Forced into a financially advantageous marriage that spirals into a nightmare, Ellisif cannot help but imagine what might have been and ache for what was lost. The only lights in her life are her daughters and the friendships she’s forged with the household servants.
Though seven years have passed since Ellisif wed another man, Dagar still cannot forget the woman who captured his youthful heart. As the Viking warrior battles for his country’s future, he finds himself entangled in a personal war for Ellisif’s freedom that could cost his family their reputation and standing with the king. If he risks all, can he save the woman whose face still haunts his dreams? And if given another chance, will she choose him?
INARA~
Escaped slave Inara is determined to start a new life. Under the guidance of warrior and shipbuilder Håkon, her sword skill grows, as does her confidence that the Viking men will accept her as a warrior in her own right.
When she is selected to lead a perilous rescue mission to protect Ellisif, Inara finds herself blindsided by feelings for Håkon…and by threats to her freedom far closer than she feared. As dreams and desires collide, she wrestles against the lies holding her captive. Can she conquer her doubts before all that she’s hoped for slips from her hands?
Written by award-winning historical author Heather Day Gilbert and fresh voice Jen Cudmore, two love stories entwine in this sweeping Viking-era romance, the first novel in the Tavland Vikings series.
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ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Heather Day Gilbert
Award-winning novelist Heather Day Gilbert enjoys writing mysteries and Viking historicals. She brings authentic family relationships to the page, and she particularly delights in heroines who take a stand to protect those they love. Avid readers say Heather’s realistic characters—no matter what century—feel like best friends. When she’s not plotting stories, this native West Virginia gal can often be found hanging out with her husband and four children, playing video games, or reading Agatha Christie novels.
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Jen’s favorite type of book is a historical. Throw in a clean, sweet romance and she won’t put it down until she reaches the last page! Currently she is working full-time as a manager for a small medical clinic, and has enjoyed collaborating on this new Viking saga. Jen published a couple western novels and some short stories several years ago, and has blogged for various sites for over a decade. Working on this current project has been a good distraction from her recent empty nest. With her son serving in the Navy and her daughter off to college, Jen is seeking new adventures!
Britt Reads Fiction 