Customer Reviews

The Viking's Defiant Bride (Harlequin Historical)

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

This is the author's first book, and I'm looking forward to her next one. She did a great job portraying the turbulent times and how they affected individual lives. Both the hero and the heroine were portrayed as intelligent, honorable people who gradually overcome their mistrust to fall in love. The relationship builds up gradually and realistically, starting from a conquered and conqueror relationship to one based on mutual respect and trust. A poignant love story that makes you cheer for the well-deserved happy ending.

I thoroughly enjoyed the love story between Elgiva and Wulfrum. What's more, the difficulties their relationship faced were believable. So many times, the angst seems forced. Authors sometimes build the crux of the problem on an issue that could be resolved with one short conversation.

Ms. Fulford gives us a basis for a story that would truly cause questions of loyalty and honor to create the situation in which Elgiva and Wulfrum find themselves.

He is a complete stranger and he has taken her home by force. She is being forced to marry. Why would she automatically trust him with issues regarding the people she feels compelled to protect? That's not an issue that can be resolved in a day, a week or even a month. Her feelings of guilt regarding her betrothed were genuine. I even appreciate that I got a hint of shallowness from her in the beginning for her willingness to accept her betrothed's protection even though she really wished she didn't have to touch him.

All of the characters involved were believable. The conflict, well developed characters, the setting...all combined to make this a delightful read. The only real villain in the story was the era in which they lived. (Technically there was a guy who was a real creep, but even he simply reinforced that life sometimes held little value in the midst of war and reaping the spoils.) Conquest and violence were the rulers of the day. It's how the characters respond in the aftermath that makes this book a keeper!

this novel really sucks you in. and the characters are so interesting, one of my favorites parts of this novel is how sometimes you'll hear what both main characters are thinking in the same situation and it just puts a whole new perspective on things. And can make some comedy, as it isn't what the other one thought it was. really excited for more to come from this author!

BRIEF SUMMARY
Wulfrum, has invaded and raid Ravenswood, after learning of his guardian's death. His raid and anger was to be that of revenge, however, upon reaching Ravenswood, he has taken Elgiva, his prize and bride. Elgiva is not making it easy for Wulfrum, and defies him every chance she gets.

THOUGHTS

This was a nice historical romance and a nice love story. Though Wulfrum was supposed to be this ruthless Viking, the premise of the story was him getting Elgiva to fall in love with him. He was not much of a Alpha male as some would want him to be. Elgiva was very defiant and angry most of the time, which she should be. She lost her home and she was to marry another, Aylwin. Instead, she was force to marry Wulfrum.

The storyline felt a bit familiar as though I read it before. It almost, and I use the word 'almost', had a feel of a Connie Mason's historical books. If you are a fan of historical romance with warriors, and looking for something on the light side, then this is your book.

Storyline: GOOD
Intimacy: SWEET
Enjoyment: GOOD

The story begins in Denmark in 865 A.D. when the Danes learn their chieftain, Ragnar, has been killed in Northumbria by King Ella in a most disgraceful manner. They are angry and his sons launch an invasion of 400 ships seeking not only revenge but lands and wives. Earl Wulfrum, Ragnar's adopted son, joins the venture hoping to gain land and an English bride. Beautiful and courageous, the Lady Elgiva and her land, Ravenswood, are highly coveted prizes in this war. Before the Vikings arrive, her mother who has second sight reads the runes to say Elgiva will not marry the man she is betrothed to, a man she respects but does not love. When the Danes finally attack Ravenswood, they conquer and Earl Wulfrum is awarded both Elgiva and her home.

All that seemed pretty expected for a Viking romance. What was a bit bizarre was that not only did Wulfrum not take her when he conquered Ravenswood, but even after they wed, he did not consummate the marriage but gave her time--What? That wasn't very Viking like and hence not very realistic. Whoever heard of a gentleman Viking...?

The story is a good one and the language and descriptions consistent with the time. It just wasn't the story one expects when Vikings are involved. For that, I'd recommend Heather Graham's Viking trilogy (see my Best Viking Romances list and my reviews).

Wonderful book. Keeps you interested from the very start. Just love books that have to do with Vikings, among others, and would greatly recommend it.

This is a love story that will stay in my mind for a long time to come. Simply wonderful.
Tami Dee

Don't know what the other readers saw in this! I usually can find something redeeming in a book but not this one. No spice, no heat, barely any conflict... The hero was about as passionate and exciting as Prince Charles. In fact, he makes Charles look like an alpha male. If I had bought this in paperback instead of electronic form, I would burn it!!!!