Lord of Vengeance

by Tina St. John (Pseudonym), Lara Adrian

Taken captive by Gunnar Rutledge, a dark knight sworn to destroy her father, Raina d’Bussy must teach forgiveness to a man who knows no mercy and lives only to exact revenge on his enemy. But time in Gunnar’s keep stirs an unwanted passion in Raina, and something far more perilous, when she finds herself falling in love with the one man she should never desire.

For Gunnar, vengeance is all that matters. He seeks the ultimate price from his enemy’s beautiful young daughter, claiming Raina as his hostage. But the proud beauty defies him at every turn, tempting him like no other. Setting out to break Raina’s glorious spirit, Gunnar instead finds himself bewitched by her goodness, her strength. Can he seize the justice he is due without losing Raina forever?

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Medieval, Historical Fiction, Medieval Romance, Adult

356 pages, ebook

First published January 1, 1995

About the author

Pseudonym of Lara Adrian

A Michigan native and descendant of Mayflower passenger Governor William Bradford, Tina St. John makes her home in coastal New England with her husband, the inspiration for all her heroes and her most devoted fan. The couple are the caretakers of two rescued felines who have trained them to surrender treats, tuna, and belly rubs on command.

She quit a full-time corporate job to pursue her dream of becoming a published author. In 1995, Tina St. John sold her first completed manuscript, Lord of Vengeance, and has since gone on to pen several more acclaimed medieval romances. She was frightened of vampires as a child. Luckily, she has overcome this fear and uses that early fascination to drive her paranormal romance novels as Lara Adrian. Her stories mesh fear, sensuality, and power into vampire romance fantasy novels and today she is well-known for the popular Midnight Breed series. She believes that “vampires as heroes in romantic fiction…are the ultimate bad boy.” Her books have been licensed in over sixteen countries. She is also a RWA RITA finalist and Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice award recipient.

Reviews

[Sina & Ilona Glimmerfee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rache und Mittelalter

Gunnar brennt auf Rache an dem Mann, der einst seine Familie auslöschte und ihn zum Sterben zurückließ. Als der Tag der Abbrechnung jedoch gekommen ist, begegnet er Raina der Tochter seines Feindes. Sie ist es, die ihn davon zunächst überzeugen kann seinen blutigen Plan nicht auszuführen, doch er brennt weiter auf Vergeltung - Mit einem anderen Plan und an einem anderen Tag.
Als sein nächster Versuch Rache zu nehmen wieder fehlschlägt, weil er nur Raina vorfindet, entführt er sie kurzerhand als Druckmittel.

Mit diesem Buch befinden wir uns im Mittelalter, genau im Jahre 1153. Wir begeben uns in Wälder und auf Burgen, sowie in eine Burgruine.

Wie hat es mir gefallen? Ich mochte den Plot an dem Buch. Ich fand ihn interessant und wollte wissen, ob Gunnar trotz Raina ihren Vater irgendwann töten wird und wie die Autorin das alles emotional schlüssig bewerkstelligen will. Das hat sie dann auch ganz gut hinbekommen.
Mir war es allerdings ein bisschen zu realistisch mittelalterlich und Tiere werden nicht sonderlich gut behandelt. Szenen die ich einfach übersprungen habe.
Die Liebesgeschichte hat mich weder begeistert noch gestört. Es war der ganze Racheplot, der mich am Ball gehalten hat.

[Lover of Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lord of Vengeance is a story that I put on hold for the longest time. The last time I read Tina St. John (almost 5 years ago) I didn’t have a fun time with the story, so I put this author aside, but this ebook was on sale a couple of years ago and its been resting in my nook ever since, and I decided that I wanted to start reading some of the books I have had on it for a while now, but haven’t picked up yet. This was a refreshing change from other historical romances I have read lately. First off it’s in a medieval setting (which I love, because we don’t see it that often), from the first chapter I was completely drawn into the story. I didn’t have a tough time at all with the flow or keeping up with it, the characters were interactive in a way that was very emotionally vivid in many ways. Their relationship starts out with more of an emotional connection, the physical intensity is there, but not way strong at first, it seemed to flow naturally. We see the building of their bond with each other, and we a change in the characters as they face certain truths and we how they handle those situations and these two really pulled through. I can’t believe how drawn I was into the book, and I can just say that I can’t wait to read another of Tina St. John now, especially with her attention to detail and historical context, the time and the people who are described come alive off the pages for the reader. A story you don’t want to miss out on.

For Full Review @ Addicted To Romance

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gunnar Rutledge, the mysterious and valiant knight who saved Raina d'Bussy from the unwanted and ruthless advances of her childhood friend wins Raina's gratitude, but goes even farther when he earns her repect and admiration on the jousting field during her father's infamous tournament. At the same, Gunnar is attracted to Raina in a most unchivalrous way and is stirred into a passion he has not felt for a very long time. That is, until he learns she is the daughter to his mortal enemy, the very man he has come to exact revenge from in payment with his life. Gunnar then denies and fights his unwanted desires, focusing solely on the vengeance he has come to attain. When his attempt to claim his enemies life is thwarted, he devises a much more sinister way of ensuring his vengeance by kidnapping his enemies beloved daughter. Gunnar is sure that by holding Raina as hostage, he will force his enemy to meet him in a one-to-one battle in order to ensure his daughter's safety. What Gunnar does not know is that it is his heart which will be held hostage instead.
Raina d'Bussy has been raised by her father since the death of her mother at the young age of 5, and knows only the kind, loving man who has always taken care of her and showered her with affection. She cannot believe the story the young knight, Gunnar Rutledge, reveals to her. The man he speaks of cannot be the father she knows, and she will never believe the lies. She must make him see he has the wrong man. While she is overwhelmed by compassion for the heinous crimes committed against Gunnar in his childhood, she is certain it can have nothing to do with her father. Yet, Gunnar is blinded by his search for vengeance and cannot see the truth in what she claims. Raina's attempts to right a wrong will uncover the ulitmate truth and shed light on her own blindness, but at what cost?
Lara Adrian writing as Tina St.John has done a wonderful job with this historical romance. I have known her as the author of some wonderful paranormal romances, but this is the first historical that I have read by her and it is very close to being a 5-star rater. The hero and heroine were fairly flawless in their character portrayals, and the passion and sexual tension were superbly done. Involved with the high drama of the story was unforgettable tragedy which rounded out the story adding a wonderful balance with emotional electricity on both sides of the meter. If you are a fan of historical romances, put this one on your TBR list. It is one amazing read!

[La-Lionne · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing story!

I have to admit that I'm not use to this type of writing style, but book description made me think that it could be an interesting read.
Once I started reading it was very hard to get in to the flow. It started very slow, not because the story dragged, but because of the way it was written. But once I got in, it was very hard to put it down. I definitely got this feeling of being dragged back in time, in to the medieval times, where men were ruthless hunter gatherers and women were beautiful and delicate decor, also looked upon as second class citizens :-S.

I can help but imagine hero as this gigantic, scary but smoking hot caveman :).
It was certainly different read from what I use to read, but I enjoyed it a lot.

[MelissaB · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was the author's first book and it shows. It feels like a wall paper medieval, there wasn't enough detail about the setting to feel like they were in the middle ages. Not bad, not great - though I could have done without the possibility of a sibling marriage.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am astounded that this only cost .99 cents on Amazon. Rush to get this book before the author comes back to her senses! This was no twenty page novella but a full 300 something page book. The story is about the character Gunner Rutledge and Raina De'bussy. Rainna's father used to be an all around terrible person until he killed a man and his wife in cold blood out of jealousy. After that day he vows to become a better person for his daughters sake and to stop drinking. Lord De'bussy does not realize that the ten year old child Gunner Rutledge does not die of the wounds inflicted upon him. Gunner is able to survive by vowing to live for the vengeance of his family. Ten years later Gunner exacts his revenge by kidnapping Lord De'bussy's daughter Raina. Raina's presence begins to change everything about Gunner and the unlikely romance between a wronged man and his enemies daughter begins. This book was excellent and I completly agree with the other very high assessments it recieved. You will not regret the purchase.

[Romanticamente Fantasy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Di certo Lara Adrian non è conosciuta per i suoi romanzi storici di ambientazione medievale, questo è sicuro al cento per cento. Nei cuori di tutti, lei è una delle regine del paranormal romance, la creatrice della saga “La stirpe di Mezzanotte” che vede dei bei vampirozzi affascinanti combattere e trovare le donne della loro vita. Qui cambiamo ambientazione, scene, periodo, persino stile, ma la Adrian rimane comunque una brava scrittrice che sa fare la differenza. So già che molti non saranno d’accordo con me e mi diranno che si nota tanto che questo è il romanzo d’esordio dell’autrice, e che quindi ha tutte le pecche di un romanzo emergente. Non sto dicendo che il romanzo non abbia pecche, ma semplicemente che è migliore di tanti altri che ci sono in giro sul mercato, storici e non storici, proprio perché la Adrian è una brava autrice.
La storia di per sé potrebbe non avere quell’originalità a cui la Adrian ci ha abituati con le altre opere, ritroviamo cliché che sono scontati e che non ammettono colpi di scena. Il protagonista si innamora di una donna che è la figlia dell’uomo di cui si vorrebbe vendicare e… c’è il lieto fine. Tutta l’argomentazione si concentra su questa frase e tutto ruota intorno a questo, perciò un lettore più esigente potrebbe storcere il naso e scartare il romanzo.
Sappiamo fin dall’inizio che l’incontro tra i due personaggi principali nasconde l’approfondimento del loro rapporto e l’innamoramento; la storia è priva di un intreccio complesso, si basa più sull’attenzione all’amore tra i due e tralascia altri aspetti, tra cui anche la vendetta di cui il testo dovrebbe parlare.
Ammetto che non mi dispiace un romance storico dove so già che storia andrò a leggere… ci sono alcuni cliché che amo a prescindere, e di cui non posso fare a meno, da cui non mi aspetto niente. Non avrei voluto che la storia fosse diversa da come ce l’ha raccontata la Adrian perché avrebbe perso l’attrattiva che ha avuto su di me e che mi ha fatto divorare le pagine in una giornata.
Ci troviamo in un Inghilterra medievale e già il contesto è interessante. Il protagonista maschile è un ventitreenne in cerca di vendetta, Gunnar, l’anno è il 1140. Ovviamente lui è un cavaliere; ovviamente lui è affascinante e bello. Veniamo subito catapultati bene nel discorso storico, per quanto alla fine i dialoghi ci sembrino più contemporanei che medievali, ma anche questo è affascinante, a modo suo. Non è che basti dare del “voi” per creare la dimensione storica, e poi passare al “tu” quando i due si conoscono, è ovvio, però a qualche lettrice romantica – compresa me – basta e avanza per sognare una splendida storia d’amore storica. Ok, mi basta poco, prendetene atto quando e se leggerete questo romanzo.
A questo punto qualcuno avrà voglia di farmi violenza, perché non vuole vedere strafalcioni storici nei romanzi, anche d’amore. Va bene, avete ragione, in questo caso la Adrian non inserisce molta storia, anzi, lo fa poco, ci descrive spazi, personaggi, poco i luoghi, niente di storia, e so che ad alcune lettrici la cosa ha fatto inorridire. Dov’è lo spessore ambientale, storico, culturale? Oh, no, manca! E per questo al romanzo si toglie il voto positivo e si declassa a nullità.
Non me la sento di farlo, perché la storia d’amore mi ha appassionata e mi ha fatto trascorrere delle ore incollata al testo per vedere fino a dove i due protagonisti si sarebbero spinti prima di darsi un bel bacetto.
Gunnar mi ha fatto innamorare con la sua ricerca dell’onore. I cavalieri medievali nell’immaginario comune, e non solo nelle nostre menti romantiche, ricercavano la fede, l’orgoglio, la virtù, l’essere uomini con onore e soprattutto la dimostrazione di questo sul campo di battaglia e nella vita. Quest’uomo motivato dalla vendetta che vuole a tutti i costi che i suoi genitori possano essere orgogliosi di lui, mi ha fatto palpitare il cuore di tenerezza. Credo di avere lo spirito da crocerossina a questo punto.
Raina, invece, è la tipica ragazza ribelle che non sa stare al suo posto, il peperino di cui lui si innamorerà perdutamente e che si fiderà di lui fino al punto di non chiedergli nulla. Mi piacciono anche questo tipo di personaggi femminili: indomiti, ma che sanno mettere da parte loro stesse per amore. Le donne troppo indipendenti rischiano di farmi venire il nervoso, oltre al fatto che in uno storico sono fuori contesto, ma anche per la semplice ragione che si tratta di una storia d’amore e ne avrei piene le scatole di sentirmi continuamente rivangare la rivalsa del genere femminile su quello maschile. Se proprio volete tediarmi, fatelo in un saggio storico, non in un romance.
Le scene erotiche ci sono, ma non in eccesso, è giusto l’equilibrio della Adrian, trova sempre il modo di creare una buona storia e del buon sesso insomma, che ti fa appassionare senza mai stuccarti troppo.
C’è una canzoncina divertente nel romanzo che mi ha strappato una risatina. Ve la propongo: «Ora, Lord Gunnar spaventa tutte le belve, che al suo arrivo scappano leste. E anche le donne vengono meno quando lo guardano, perché la sua spada è grande quanto il suo…», vi lascio immaginare il riferimento che si sta facendo. Gunnar è un vero uomo, uno di quelli che cerca di essere migliore per se stesso e per gli altri; Raina è una donna capace e di buon cuore, che riesce a risultare simpatica se non altro perché non si arrende mai ed è cocciuta. Date un’opportunità a questo romanzo, soprattutto se siete persone romantiche, perché vi piacerà; se invece volete scavare nel dettaglio, potrebbe non essere per voi il massimo della lettura.
Da parte mia vi posso dire che adoro gli uomini che perdono la testa per le loro donne e mettono da parte la loro vendetta per amore, e non disdegno nemmeno i lieto fine romantici, anche se non sono il massimo dell’emozione. In più anche se carente dal punto di vista storico, questo romanzo è scritto bene e sa prendere un lettore riga dopo riga, perché la Adrian è molto brava a coinvolgere con il suo stile incalzante. A parte qualche refuso, uno anche grave, non ho altro da segnalare, lascio a voi la decisione. Buona lettura!
.
Malia - per RFS

[Ana Carolina Crespo · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's a longer, more tangential, quite silly version of this review at Reading with Analysis.

In case the stars didn't tip you off, this is a positive review... eventually. Everything about it screams classic bodice ripper (except the cover isn’t nearly cheesy enough). Seriously, read the blurb again. So let's see… Captive heroine? check! Dark knight hero who lives to exact revenge on the heroine’s father? check! Unwanted passion stirred in the heroine? check! Hero setting out to break his captive’s spirit? check! And, finally, hero unexpectedly and unwillingly captivated by the heroine’s goodness? check!

But I bought this book because I hoped that Gunnar would turn out to the the misunderstood hero (I love those) and that Raina would have some backbone (after all, she ‘defies him at every turn’ and has ‘strength’). My big problem with the archetypes in bodice rippers is not just that the hero is a total assmunch but that the heroine is a weak-sauce pansy who just accepts whatever the hero gives her as though it’s totally his right to be a douche-canoe. So I bought the book because (1) it was cheap and (2) there was a fairly decent chance that I would turn out liking it.

I was a nail-biting ball of nerves throughout the first half of Lord of Vengeance, because Gunnar exudes all of the iconic traits of a bodice-ripper hero, and Raina, though she obviously possesses some steel and fortitude, keeps vacillating between being overcome by her fascination and desire for Gunnar and being overcome by guilt and shame for feeling those things. Most lamentably, there was a ‘you may say no, but your eyes say yes’ scene, and it pushed me perilously close to making the DNF decision (personal issues... to me, no means no, straight up). But I started reading the book after Kim over at Reflections of a Book Addict gave it a high rating, and I trust her ability to recommend books for me to read. Our taste is eerily similar.

As it turns out, I’m thrilled that I stuck with it and finished this book, because the second half of the book more than makes up for the uncertainty of the first half. Gunnar, it turns out, is really a squishy, peep-filled fuzzball who just wants to do the right thing and love Raina good. Raina discovers the power of her own femininity and finds strength in her ability to trust and love bravely.

It really is beautiful, but I think the character transitions for both Gunnar and Raina could have been smoothed out a wee bit in the editing process. I’ve read books in which the characters undergo complete personality overhauls that aren’t explained in any way (other than plain ‘ol bad editing), and Lord of Vengeance is nothing like that, but the character development for both characters did seem a little abrupt. Gunnar was always a good guy-–just pretending to be a bad guy in the beginning–-and Raina was always a strong woman–-just shocked into weakness by some of Gunnar’s more blatant antics-–and both characters begin acting in a manner more true to themselves as they get to know one another and get more comfortable with each other.

The end is lovely, and I liked that Nigel played a foil to Gunnar’s evil reputation/squishy heart of gold. There was almost too little Nigel, though. He’s really the villain of the piece, but he’s not present throughout most of the book. I guess it’s OK, though, because he manages to cram a whole lot of evil antics into his few appearances.

Anyway, Lord of Vengeance is a great read, especially if you’re interested in a book that contains all the classic elements of a bodice ripper without being awful. I really enjoyed it.

[Jackie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’ve been reading cheesy romance novels since I learned to read. I simply love them. They provide me with escape and comfort whenever life gets stressful or I need a good reading palate cleanser because I know I’m always guaranteed a happy ending. So when I saw this one for free I jumped on the chance. I can’t have too many cheesy romances and Lara Adrian is the author of the Midnight Breed Series I’ve heard so much about.

This one was just okay for me. For the most part I found the characters one dimensional and predictable. The hero, Gunnar, is a brooding hunk of a man hell bent on vengeance and Raina, the heroine, is sweet yet fierce when the situation calls for it. The villain, who shall remain nameless because I don’t want to spoil, is bad all around. Every character with the exception of Baron d’Bussy is pigeon holed in their role so that they lack any kind of substance or complexity.

My other issue was the dialogue. There was a lot of “nay”-ing going around and it just didn’t sound authentic enough for me. The dialogue wasn’t particularly witty or amusing either. I always look forward to the hero and heroine bantering back and forth, but for this book there were few scenes where I found the bantering amusing.

From the author’s note at the end of the ebook this was one of her first novels and well…it shows. The writing, the characters, and the plot are not very impressive, but they do show a good enough start. I’ll definitely be checking out Adrian’s Midnight Breeds series because from what I’ve heard she has improved. Check the Lord of Vengeance out if you’re looking for a quick cheesy romance, but just don’t have high expectations if you’ve read any of her later books or are feeding off the hype of her later books, like I did.

[Lauren · Rating 1 out of 5]

I listened to the audiobook version of this, and the narrator was really good. My problem was with the story itself. I absolutely hated this book.

Plot: F
Characters: F
Heat: C

Plot:
On the surface, this plot is the same plot we've seen time and again. H's parents killed by h's relatives; H seeks revenge and somehow gets h as his captive and the love happens mixed in with some stereotypical villain. However, this villain was particularly vile because we have hints of incest and sexual assault.

Characters:
I didn't understand the characters' actions in this story. I didn't understand how Raina was still interacting with a man that was going to sexually assault her. I don't understand why she didn't tell her father. Raina was extremely immature, which makes sense since she was only 18. I understand why Raina just didn't take Gunnar's word regarding her father's actions, but she didn't even ask him about it until 2/3rds, which made the story drag on. And even then Gunnar deflected. Gunnar was a disappointment as well. Because he really was a 23 yr old. He made stupid decisions (including keeping dishonorable men as mercenaries that bit him later in the story, not punishing his squire which caused his squire to CONTINUE to be disloyal (however minor), and just plain stupid my entering a unfriendly keep with no backup.) And all of this garbage happened within 1 week. And Raina, again, gets almost sexuallly assaulted (for the second time in the book) and Gunnar saves her (for the second time) and she's all like "don't touch me" because he beat the attacker. I just didn't understand that.

People in this booked acted like Gunnar is without honor. Sure he kidnapped her, but he hasn't even touched her in anger or taken advantage of her, and they are acting like he is a monster. I just don't understand this book. Alaric sympathizing with her and feeling sorry for her. All she is doing is chores!! And Reina saying she only has to know him to know the punishment he meted out to Alaric. But he has shown literally no propensity towards violence. He hasn't raised a hand do anybody in this story except Nigel, who was forcing himself on her. And when she learns the truth, she is mad that he let her believe the worst about him. Like why is it his responsibility to disabuse you of your assumptions?

I could go on and on as to why I hated this book, but I think i will end it here. I just really didn't like this book.

**Please note that this book held no redemption for me once the villain is seen to be about to sexaully assualt a girl, is interrupted, and left to his devices to continue his assault. This doesn't happen on page per se, but the lead up and aftermath are described. And, it is told that he has done this many times in a week. The villain was already bad, did we have to read about sexual violence against women as well?

[Missy · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 out of 5 stars.

Not too bad.

[what.rachel.reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

Most interesting part was how dastardly Nigel was towards the end.

[Taylor - Muse Ignited Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely an overlooked gem of a medieval romance

[Francy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Da http://leggerefantastico.blogspot.com
Il Signore della Vendetta è il romance storico, ambientato nell' Inghilterra di metà 1100 di Lara Adrian, l' autrice divenuta celebre per la saga paranormal romance La Stirpe di Mezzanotte. Nonostante io sia ghiotta di paranormal, devo purtroppo ammettere di non aver mai letto di quest' autrice e di conseguenza non conoscere lo stile narrativo di essa. Ma con questo romanzo posso dire di essermi affacciata con immensa gioia al mondo della Adrian, apprezzando la sua abilità nel creare una storia appassionata e coinvolgente, e con due personaggi altrettando affascinanti. Ma andiamo con ordine. La storia è principalmente costruita sull' orribile vicenda avvenuta tredici anni prima dell' attuale narrazione, che vede lo spregievole barone d' Bussy uccidere selvaggiamente e senza alcun rimorso, prima il padre e poi la madre del piccolo Gunnar Rutledge, protagonista della nostra storia. Dopo essere scampato al massacro, Gunnar un bambino di appena dieci anni, gravemente ferito si lascia curare dal guaritore Merrick e giura eterna vendetta all' assassino dei suoi genitori. Tredici anni dopo, la vendetta è ancora il fine principale della vita di Gunnar, divenuto ormai un ragazzo imponente e un guerriero valoroso. La morte di d' Bussy riuscirebbe a quietare i tumulti interiori del giovane, e così armato di tutto il suo spirito selvaggio giunge a Nortworth per portare a termine la sua vendetta. Ma non ha fatto i conti col destino e con l' incontro improvviso quanto travolgente con la bella Raina, la figlia del barone. Quale modo migliore per mettere in atto la sua vendetta, se non quello di rapire la figlia del suo acerrimo nemico e usarla per arrivare a lui? Ma alla fine dell' avventura Gunnar sarà ancora disposto a lasciar partire Raina e dar vita alla sua personale vendetta? Forse i mostri del passato non sono così potenti quando l' amore inizia a districare e ad intessere con i suoi dolci fili.
Eroiche battaglie tra guerrieri e tra due personaggi così simili ma cresciuti così diversamente, danno vita ad un romanzo in cui è impossibile perdersi. In cui ogni pagina è una piacevole distrazione, un sottile tormento e un' impellente urgenza di sapere come tutto andrà a finire.
Ho nutrito un' innegabile amore a prima vista con Gunnar, il nostro eroe ed impavido guerriero. Tutto di lui, a partire dalla sua storia passata e dalla sua vita attuale, farebbe presagire ad un uomo crudele e spietato, animato solo dalla vendetta contro d' Bussy. Invece, come del resto è normale che accada, Gunnar è gentile e premuroso con la sua prigioniera, ma conserva all' interno di sè un animo nobile e dolce, quello che a contrasto con la sua furia guerriera diventa il punto di forza e l' attrazione per qualsiasi donzella. Dal canto suo Raina, vissuta senza madre e con un padre quasi perfetto, inizialmente dubita del reale coinvolgimento del suo amato padre nel massacro dei Rutledge. Raina è un spirito ribelle, una ragazza ingenua e quasi del tutto inconsapevole delle tentazioni o intenzioni malvagie altrui. E' vissuta sempre come se fosse stata sotto una campana di vetro, ma questo non l' ha resa affatto debole ma solo iper-protetta e come detto in precedenza, ingenua. Ma quando Gunnar arriva e scombussola prepotentemente la sua vita, le sue convinzioni e il modo di affacciarsi alla vita, cambiano drasticamente. Naviga attraverso nuove sensazioni, e si fa strada in lei il desiderio. Quello proibito che non dovrebbe essere in grado di provare.
In continui litigi e riappacificazioni, consapevolezze e timori, il rapporto di Raina e Gunnar si sviluppa, attrae e coinvolge il lettore in un susseguirsi di combattimenti, momenti esilaranti, buffi e drammatici. Una storia che consiglio di leggere anche a chi, come me, ha letto davvero pochi romance storici. E' un romanzo in cui l' amore e la vendetta viaggiano di pari passo, ma alla fine solo uno riuscirà a prevalere.

[Bj · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I gave this audiobook a B+ for the story and narration at AudioGals*

Narrated by Antony Ferguson

Interestingly, what originally attracted me to Lord of Vengeance was author Lara Adrian, whose paranormal romance series, The Midnight Breed, has been a long-time favorite of mine. I was curious to see how her skills would translate to the vastly different historical romance sub-genre. Well imagine my surprise when I started listening to this audiobook and got that niggle of familiarity. I did a little investigating, and discovered that I had already read the book long ago – way before The Midnight Breed was even written! Turns out it was originally published by Ms. Adrian in 1995 under the pen-name Tina St. John. Although I am not a huge fan of rereads, I was pleasantly surprised to find that Antony Ferguson’s narration made this interesting story even more engaging.

Gunnar Rutledge is obsessed with one thing: revenge. His father was murdered in a tournament, and when his mother refused to become the killer’s mistress, he killed her too. If that wasn’t bad enough, Gunnar was just a small child, but he was also stabbed and left for dead.

When Gunnar finally attempts to fulfill his destiny, he is devastated to find his nemesis missing from his castle. Instead he finds his daughter, Raina d’Bussy. So he determines to do the next best thing and takes her away. As his hostage, she infuriates him like no other. He finds himself constantly battling his attraction to her, and is disgusted with himself for his own feelings. How could he possibly feel this way for her under the circumstances?

Raina is a tough woman though. Even as his captive, she endeavors to make the best of her situation and soon she finds herself strangely attracted to Gunnar. But how can she be falling for a man who is so clearly wrong about her father? Even worse, how can she support a man who has made it his life’s mission to kill her father? Will forgiveness or love triumph?

Moreover, there is another plot twist that adds to the intrigue of this story as there is someone close to Raina, who has been plotting for years in furtherance of his own dark agenda, and who is determined to make Raina his own, willingly or not. Will Gunnar be able to sort his feelings in time to save her from imminent peril?

See the full review, including the narration review, at AudioGals.

[MsRomanticReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all the new cover is HOT! This was a wonderful historical romance and first novel by Lara Adrian (author of the immensely popular Midnight Breed series). I know her only through that modern paranormal series, so I wasn't sure what to expect of this historical piece. I wasn't disappointed.

As a young boy, Gunnar Rutledge has never forgotten his father's murder, nor the slaying of his mother at the hands of Baron d'Bussy. Now fully grown and a ruthless warrior, he vows to seek vengeance on his enemy. When he meets the lovely Raina, he's shocked to learn that she is his enemy's daughter. When none of his taunts work to lure the Baron into a confrontation, he kidnaps Raina to use her as bait. During her ten day captivity, Raina never imagined she'd learn the truth about her family and come to love the brutish warrior, who not only captured her, but her heart as well. But how can she love Gunnar when he seeks to kill her only family? Is he willing to sacrifice his quest for retribution in favor of gaining so much more?

You can't help but love Gunnar, despite his stubbornness to stay the course he has set for himself. The tough exterior he presented hid the man he truly was at his core. His endless needling of Raina brought out his cheeky side and she showed him how feisty she could really be. The build up to their HEA was nicely paced and the true story between their two families unfolded in a steady flow. The only thing I had an issue with was the Baron's confession at the end. He was definitely certifiable, and I thought Raina let him off the hook too easily in the face of all her father had done. And don't even get me started on Nigel (that was a surprise).

All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed their story and for $0.99 this book is a steal!

[Emmy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ok, I haven't finished yet so I may have an update later but these are my thoughts so far.

My perpetual hang-up when it comes to the "romance" genre comes into play yet again. I have a real problem when the hero/heroine fall for each other based on nothing else besides physical attraction –unfortunately many romances are like this and they just aren’t to my taste so this probably wasn’t the right book for me. Despite this, I’m still going to give me break down of the book.

There is a big difference between the personality/character of Gunnar as presented to the reader and to Raina. Gunnar is verbally, and even a teeny bit physically, abusive to Raina and despite that, because she is physically attracted to him, she starts to fall in love with him. While the reader can see that he is a tortured soul and is granted some reasoning behind his words and actions, Raina just sees the abusive man that has sworn to kill her father, but all of that takes a backseat to that fact that he is good looking. And all of this completely ruins their relationship for me because it feels false.

In addition, the only character I actually like is a secondary character, Alaric. He's the only character that I believe. Everyone else seems to lack a consistency in their personalities.

UPDATE:
The ending got a little better so I'm giving it a 2 rather than a 1. Again, I think this just wasn't the right book for me.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Ms. Adrian's Midnight Breed series, so when I saw her early releases on sale at Amazon, I rushed to buy as many as I could find. I wasn't sure what order everything should be read in, and this one was up first on my kindle so it was my first. I was shocked when I found out this was her first publication, her first manuscript even!! This is a fantastic novel, and made even more so by the knowledge that it was a debut!

I won't re summarize, but let me say that I really enjoyed this love story between Gunnar and his "lamb" (and this was waaayy before Twilight so it's much sweeter here!)

There were a few obvious cliches - the villain, the villain's henchman, the reunion - but overall, it was a well done book with well done characters. Each of them, even the secondary ones, had a personality and life in them. I especially loved Alaric.

There were some very tender moments here along with some very spicy ones, and some that were a fanastic mix of both (I'm thinking of the 2nd pond scene here).

This was the best book I've read in awhile, barring Lothaire, so I'm grateful to Ms. Adrian for pulling me out of the reading dumps, and I can't wait to get started on the next one on the list!

[Melissa · Rating 2 out of 5]

When it comes to historical romance, the medieval time period is my favorite. I also love a brooding hero. Gunnar was a fantastic main character. I loved that he tried to pretend to be a hard, relentless and ruthless warrior, whereas in reality he was a very decent and soft person, who struggled very hard to come to terms with what happened to him in the past. Raina was very likeable but less persuasive as a lead character, maybe because of her young age in combination with the limited life experience due to the way of living women had at that time. In any case, she just didn't live up to my expectations. I found this book to be more than a little on the dull side. Even though it is very well written, there wasn't too much there to keep my interest. I found my mind wandering while reading and having to go back and re-read a couple of pages. Not something that happens when I'm really involved in the storyline. Even the sex was...well, dull and formulaic. Overall, not horrible by any stretch, but also not the kind of book that keeps you captivated until the last page. I was easily able to put it down and wasn't anxiously waiting to get back to it.

[Dorothea Müller · Rating 5 out of 5]

England, 12. Jahrhundert: Gunnar Rutledge erwacht auf dem Schlachtfeld er musste mit ansehen wir seine Mutter getötet wurde. Baron Luther d´Bussy glaubte in Tot doch Gunnar ist schwer verletzt. Jahre später ist auf den Weg um d´Bussy zur Rechenschaft zu ziehen. Doch der Baron bestreitet keine Turniere mehr. Also entführt er dessen Tochter um ihn zu einem Duell zu zwingen. Doch die schöne Raina ist genau das Gegenstück zu ihrem Vater und die Funken zwischen Raina und Gunnar fliegen nur so.

Der Titel verrät schon viel, das Buch handelt fast nur von der Rache und wie sie einem das Leben zerstört. Gunnar ist ein Mann voller Rachegedanken und lässt nix anderes in sein Leben. Raina ist eine fröhlich und positive Frau, die plötzlich mit der Dunkelheit konfrontiert wird. Doch bleibt ihr glaube ans gute die ganze Zeit erhalten. Sie ist stärker als man am Anfang glaubt. Die Geschichte ist sehr spannend, leidenschaftlich und voller tiefe Gefühle. Aber sie hat auch ein paar Wendungen dabei die man so nicht erwartet hat und teilweise auch schockieren. Aber ein schöner Ausflug in die Vergangenheit, ich hatte das Gefühl wirklich dabei zu sein.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a child Gunner Rutledge witness the death of his mother at the hands of Lord D'Bussy......
Thirteen years later the opportunity to finally seek and gain vengeance arrives but even the best laid plans go wrong; and second attempt send no better, except this time he captures D'Bussy's daughter Riana with the intent of trading her from for the chance to meet and fight her father one on one.

Unfortunately or fortunately for Gunner his desires and his heart after keeping Riana by his side while waiting on the meeting time change his plans yet again.

Truly enjoyed reading this book!

[Rachel Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hey Tina St. John (Lara Adrian),


This was her first book, and the first non-paranormal I've read of hers. It's great. I love it.

'Nuff said.

[ReneeW · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars/B-

[Kiesha ~ Gwenllian ferch Gruffydd · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed revisiting this book in audiobook format. Anthony Ferguson was the narrator and as always, he knocked it out of the park.

[Bj · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 "Revenge Versus Love" Stars for the story and narration.

[UltraMeital · Rating 5 out of 5]

OUTSTANDING. I can't believe it took me THAT long to get to this book! As Historical Romance are not my usual "go to" I delayed it - what a mistake!!! I loved everything about this book, the total feel of this book, the setting - the whole medieval feel, the mean plotting made my stomach burn! The romance between Gunnar and Raina didn't take long from a time perspective and yet I could see how and why both fell for one another even in such an unlikely situation.

Lord Gunnar Rutledge is FINALLY ready for his vengeance. He has waited 13 years, ever since he was a young boy, to claim his revenge on his parents murderer - Baron Luther d'Bussy. It would be fitting, killing the Baron on the tournament grounds where he killed his own father. But when he gets there and realizes the Baron is not going to participate he needs another plan. He waited too long to forsake his claim for justice.

Raina d'Bussy has lived a comfortable life thus far. The daughter of the Baron who denied her nothing. She enjoys her days riding with very little care in the world. She might miss the mother she barely knew but she loves her father who has always cared for her. The first "twist" to her playful naive life comes when one of her closest friends - Nigel - tried to force his "love" for her only to be rescued by a dark knight. Riding away from the beautiful girl Gunnar rescued, he couldn't have guessed she is the daughter of his sworn enemy.

After Gunnar failed attempt at the tournament he ties his best to lure the Baron into a meeting (where he plans to kill him) but no matter what he does the Baron stays in his home even while his villages are plundered and burned. Only option left is to actually COME to him and take him out in his own home. But when he actually gets to his chambers he is surprised to find Raina there. On the spur of the moment he decides to take her with him as a bargaining tool against her father.

Gunnar doesn't know what to do with Raina. He won't harm her in any way. He had enough of that with what her father planned to do with his own mother. Yet he still needs to keep her with him and making her see "sense" is quite difficult with her strong spirit. Though she frustrates him, he is still impressed, intrigued, and yeah attracted to her. No matter what she says and does and how infuriating she can be in her disbelieve of her father's doing it's obvious first and foremost she is a kind and caring person. The exact traits Gunnar himself tries to hide from her.. But it doesn't take her long to realize the "Dark Knight" isn't as mean and heartless as he tries to show himself to be. From there little by little yet faster than one would expect (considering the amount of time they spend in close quarters) they fall for one another. Yet Gunnar still doesn't want to take advantage of her so it's up to HER to make the first real move. He might taunt her, but he would never harm her.

This resolve is put to the test when the meeting with her father nears and Gunnar needs to make a choice what will he do now when he meets his enemy and the one person left to the woman he loves. Yet what both of them plan or hope will happen isn't in their hands anymore when Nigel puts his own plan into motion. He too has waited for this moment his whole life and nothing and no-one would stand in his way. Well, he shouldn't have underestimated a couple in love...

HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

I can't believe THIS is the first book Lara wrote! I've read and loved her Paranormal Romance series "Midnight Breed" and I can't believe how DIFFERENT this one to her more recent books. But nevertheless GREAT as well.

First thing I did before writing this review was getting all other Historical Romance novels by Tina (~cough~ Lara) and making SURE they are HIGH on my list. I AM READY FOR MORE!

More Reviews HERE

[Janet Denise Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 STARS, MEDIEVAL ROMANCE DRAMA, LOSS OF MOTHERS'

This fast paced action packed medieval romance drama grabs the reader's attention & holds it to the end of the last page. A pen name was used by this Author the first time this book was published, but it's here under her real name these years later.

Medieval life was crude and simple, the people were used to being part of a siege, or towns ruled over by Knights; also, tournaments were held that left me crippled, horses killed, and Knights at war in revenge for some (perceived slight, sometimes nothing at all) slight or damage due to the other fellow Knight. It could even have been words against his Lady Love or wished for.

In this a Knight was pointedly put to death, all because he had cleaned a Ladies slipper of muck & received her smile, his wife's cousin I believe. Just normal courtesy that he gave & thanks he received; yet the extremely jealous Lord Knight Husband of hers, drunk probably, would not believe her which is why he killed him rather than other. This one cowardly jealous act set forth the actions that have come to face the Baron today.

Gunnar has finally come for his revenge, for the deeds done to him & his family when he was just thirteen years old. Rains was only five at that time when she lost her Mother; however, it will take a lot of things to pass & a tragedy of a hunt to bring forth information she didn't have until this telling, to know that Gunnar & her story are actually part of the same one.

A mesmerizing storyline that will keep you glued to the words on the pages. The heat & sexual tension between Raina & Gun is undeniable; yet, they both worry they are betraying someone or something.

Then, it always gets back to the character of people & who they are inside to themselves. Characters are created with different levels of depth depending what they are supposed to know or show for this storyline. The perills of drinking alcohol to the point of drunkenness & remaining like that for long periods are shown & how it can make people do accidental things they regret. For instance: be aware when Rains & her Father are looking at her Mother's Bible. (After she comes home & he tries to hide it but shows it to her.)

Recommend

[Carole Rae · Rating 2 out of 5]

A random find on Audible and I picked mainly because it fits of the reading challenges I am doing.



The story follows Gunnar and Raina. Gunnar's family was murdered by D'Bussy and he has dedicated his life to getting revenge. Years have passed and the time is now. He takes D'Bussy's daughter, Raina, as his hostage. Gunnar finds himself bewitched and the two fall for each other.



First, was Gunnar even a name used in England during the 12th century? *does research* I guess it was a Viking name? So maybe? And what about Raina? *does more research* Not really finding anything. Looks like it was used in India? I'm no expert but the name seemed out of place.



The story itself wasn't bad. But it all seemed unlikely. I'm glad it wasn't insta-love. There was some lust of course, but the love took until pretty much near the end. Which is fitting. I mean...he kidnapped you to kill your father!



Raina was super naive and I wanted to shake her.



Gunnar was the real victim in all of this and I say he deserved blood! BLOOD!



The baddie was gross especially when the secret came out. UGH no! You are a monster!



The father was a monster and I was rooting for Gunnar even when the father told the entire truth to Raina. Nope. No excuses sir.



I really had no idea how this was all going to end up okay for everyone especially with the baddie getting in the way. All super unrealistic.



The narrator was amazing as usual. I really like him! He does such a good job even with the girl voices.



Overall, I enjoyed it for what it was, but it was in some patches to get through. The narrator really made it doable for me. I was rooting for Gunnar to get his revenge. Raina just needed a good shake. She is naive and blind to the truth. This was just an unrealistic romance for sure. I'll give this 2 stars.

[Mary Gallo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another hit, in my eyes

This is the second book I have read by this author and it keeps getting better and better. Most times, when you read a fabulous story, the next story is a dud. Some authors are just one hit wonders and it makes you think that each successive read by the same author was actually written by different people. But not this time. I had read 'The White Lion's Lady' a few years ago and held off reading another book by her because I was afraid it would not be as good. But this story had it all again. It is in the Medieval-vengance plot idea and yet, it is a different take on this theme. The hero starts the story, in a traumatizing event that propels him through life. The heroine, is 'rescued' by the hero, but doesn't exchange any information. It is such a nice story: well written, captivating, no spelling errors, manner of speech consistent with time period, good, solid and likeable.characters. And the ages were of note, the heroine was 18 and the hero was 23. This seems much more believable in the medieval time period where life expectancy was so very low. It was a time when men wanted children right away for dynastic reasons. There were few bachelors or spinsters and society in large was sexual, even the clergy. I can only put this on my highly recommend list. 5 complete stars.