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Lord of Fire and Ice
"A page–turning, emotional romance, rich in historical details and plot twists." —RT Book Reviews on Sins of the Highlander, 4 Stars
His Duty is to Fulfill Her Every Desire...
Brandr the Far–Traveled has seen the world and a good many of the beautiful women in it. His bed skills are the stuff of steamy legend, his sword sings death, and he can call up fire from thin air. No one in a hundred years ever thought he could be enslaved through trickery and forced to wear the iron collar of a thrall—least of all him.
Until All She Desires is Him...
Katla the Black isn't just called so for her dark, silky hair. His new mistress has a temper as fierce as a warrior's and a heart as icy as the frozen North. But inch by delicious inch, Brandr means to make her melt...
382 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2012
24 people are currently reading
295 people want to read
About the author
Connie Mason
141 books534 followersConnie Mason or Cara Miles is the best-selling author of more than fifty historical romances and novellas. Her tales of passion and adventure are set in exotic as well as American locales. Connie was named Story Teller of the Year in 1990 by Romantic Times and was awarded Career Achievement award in the Western category by Romantic Times in 1994. Connie makes her home in Tarpon Springs, Florida with her husband Jerry.
Prior to her first published work in 1984, Connie was a full time homemaker. Always an avid reader, writing was one of Connie's dreams.
In 1995 Connie was featured on a segment of the CBS news show 48 Hours, a television production that devoted an entire program to the romance novel industry. Connie was also featured in an article published by National Inquirer.
In addition to writing and traveling, Connie enjoys telling anyone who will listen about her three children and nine grandchildren, and sharing memories of her years living abroad in Europe and Asia as the wife of a career serviceman. In her spare time Connie enjoys reading, dancing, playing bridge and freshwater fishing with her husband.
Prior to her first published work in 1984, Connie was a full time homemaker. Always an avid reader, writing was one of Connie's dreams.
In 1995 Connie was featured on a segment of the CBS news show 48 Hours, a television production that devoted an entire program to the romance novel industry. Connie was also featured in an article published by National Inquirer.
In addition to writing and traveling, Connie enjoys telling anyone who will listen about her three children and nine grandchildren, and sharing memories of her years living abroad in Europe and Asia as the wife of a career serviceman. In her spare time Connie enjoys reading, dancing, playing bridge and freshwater fishing with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
July 28, 2012
Review posted at: Swept Away By Romance
Lord of Fire and Ice by Connie Mason and Mia Marlowe
Official blurb from Mia Marlowe's website:
His duty is to fulfill her every desire...
Brandr the Far-Traveled has seen the world and a good many of the beautiful women in it. His bed skills are the stuff of steamy legend, his sword sings death, and he can call up fire from thin air. No one ever thought he could be enslaved through trickery and forced to wear the iron collar of a thrall—least of all him.
Until all she desires is him...
Katla the Black isn’t just called so for her dark, silky hair. His new mistress has a temper as fierce as a warrior’s and a heart as icy as the frozen North. But inch by delicious inch, Brandr means to make her melt...
Story Rating 4 Stars
Character Rating 4 Stars
Romance Rating 5 Stars
Heat Level 4 Stars
Action Level 3.5 Stars
Overall Rating 4 Stars
I really liked this story. It was a romantic historical Viking book with just a touch of paranormal to it. The story line was very interesting and kept me turning the pages. The hero Brandr was a fierce Warrior who had the element of making and controlling fire. During this book he said some really romantic things to Katla and I fell in love with him too. Katla the heroine was a motherless widow who was very strong and ran her late husband’s farmstead successfully. Both characters were very nicely done and fit perfectly together. The chemistry between these two sizzled on the pages and the love scenes were VERY sensual.
Of course with any Viking story you always get some villains. The ringleader of the bad guys was extremely evil. The end battle was where we got to really see just what Brandr's fire element could do. I kind of felt this part was rushed and once it was done the book ended too fast. It was a shame because the rest of the book was very good. I would have LOVED to have had an epilogue. Oh, it ended well, but could have been so much more and that could have made this book a 5 Star rating instead of the 4 stars I gave it.
All and all Lord Of Fire And Ice was a very good read, and I really look forward to reading more books from the writing team of Connie Mason and Mia Marlowe.
Lord of Fire and Ice by Connie Mason and Mia Marlowe
Official blurb from Mia Marlowe's website:
His duty is to fulfill her every desire...
Brandr the Far-Traveled has seen the world and a good many of the beautiful women in it. His bed skills are the stuff of steamy legend, his sword sings death, and he can call up fire from thin air. No one ever thought he could be enslaved through trickery and forced to wear the iron collar of a thrall—least of all him.
Until all she desires is him...
Katla the Black isn’t just called so for her dark, silky hair. His new mistress has a temper as fierce as a warrior’s and a heart as icy as the frozen North. But inch by delicious inch, Brandr means to make her melt...
Story Rating 4 Stars
Character Rating 4 Stars
Romance Rating 5 Stars
Heat Level 4 Stars
Action Level 3.5 Stars
Overall Rating 4 Stars
I really liked this story. It was a romantic historical Viking book with just a touch of paranormal to it. The story line was very interesting and kept me turning the pages. The hero Brandr was a fierce Warrior who had the element of making and controlling fire. During this book he said some really romantic things to Katla and I fell in love with him too. Katla the heroine was a motherless widow who was very strong and ran her late husband’s farmstead successfully. Both characters were very nicely done and fit perfectly together. The chemistry between these two sizzled on the pages and the love scenes were VERY sensual.
Of course with any Viking story you always get some villains. The ringleader of the bad guys was extremely evil. The end battle was where we got to really see just what Brandr's fire element could do. I kind of felt this part was rushed and once it was done the book ended too fast. It was a shame because the rest of the book was very good. I would have LOVED to have had an epilogue. Oh, it ended well, but could have been so much more and that could have made this book a 5 Star rating instead of the 4 stars I gave it.
All and all Lord Of Fire And Ice was a very good read, and I really look forward to reading more books from the writing team of Connie Mason and Mia Marlowe.
July 16, 2012
**I received this book in exchange for an honest review at Book Savvy Babe Blog**
Okay, have you ever had the experience where you read a book blurb, you see the author, and you think “wow, this sounds like a great read for me!” But then, you start reading the book, and it’s not quite what you were expecting? Well, this is what happened to me with Lord of Fire and Ice.
The premise and the plot behind Lord of Fire and Ice is promising, a high-ranking man is tricked into becoming a slave to a bitter woman, they feel attraction build, the man’s spirit can’t be broken, and the woman realizes that she wants to keep the man around, as a free man and leader. The setting is a fantasy-esque, older world, where Norse gods are worshiped and magic and supernatural abilities can occur. The world was interesting, I liked the Viking and Norse mythology, but I felt indifferent to the characters, and unable to really become engaged in the story.
To begin, I was never much of a Katla fan. She is portrayed as a cold-hearted woman, but to me she felt more snobbish and bratty. She had a first husband who treated her poorly, so now she treats other people with disdain. I never really understood why she kept Brandr as a thrall (slave). Brandr’s crime was that he drank to much and his father got into a fight and killed Katla’s husband, all while Brandr was gone. Katla keeps Brandr as her thrall in hopes of vengeance against Brandr’s father, who was supposed dead. (Taking vengeance out on a dead man is pointless, so Brandr being a thrall did not make sense to me) Even as the story goes on, Katla is always acting selfishly, she can’t put herself in Brandr’s shoes or try to understand that there is more to the world than her little farm. She does learn a few lessons, but throughout the entire story, I just never really understood her.
As for Brandr, I liked him okay, he’s a strong warrior who can control fire at will. However, he spends the first half of the book in some weird, hurt-feelings and angst over Katla, the woman who unfairly held him in thrall. He never really tries to justify his side of becoming thrall, and he falls in love with Katla pretty easily. The love between them did not make much sense to me, and it’s probably because I had trouble identifying with the characters.
A big issue I had with this book is that I just didn’t get the thrall thing all together. According to this book, someone could kidnap anyone at anytime and make them a slave. Then, the thralls are held in shame for the remainder of their lives. That there are not more rules for creating thralls does not sit well with me. That means that someone could break into another’s home, shackle them in their sleep and call them a thrall. That person would be held in shame, all because they were sleeping, or just taking a walk? I may not be correct in my understanding of how the thrall’s work, but that is how I interpreted what I read.
The first half of the book is pretty slow, that is where the characters are at Katla’s farm and Brandr is in thrall. The second half, they finally branch out, travel, and more action is introduced to the story. I appreciated the action, and that Brandr finally got to be more than a slave. However, through the whole book, I felt a lack of connection with the story. I’m not sure if it was that I simply didn’t identify with the characters, or the writing didn’t draw me in, or if I was just pre-occupied with the business of the summer. In the end, Lord of Fire and Ice was not the best fit for me.
I will say that if readers like romantic fantasy books, especially if the fantasy has some paranormal/magic mixed in, you may enjoy this book, even though it was not my cup of tea. If you want to give this book a try, it released in early July and is on shelves now.
Okay, have you ever had the experience where you read a book blurb, you see the author, and you think “wow, this sounds like a great read for me!” But then, you start reading the book, and it’s not quite what you were expecting? Well, this is what happened to me with Lord of Fire and Ice.
The premise and the plot behind Lord of Fire and Ice is promising, a high-ranking man is tricked into becoming a slave to a bitter woman, they feel attraction build, the man’s spirit can’t be broken, and the woman realizes that she wants to keep the man around, as a free man and leader. The setting is a fantasy-esque, older world, where Norse gods are worshiped and magic and supernatural abilities can occur. The world was interesting, I liked the Viking and Norse mythology, but I felt indifferent to the characters, and unable to really become engaged in the story.
To begin, I was never much of a Katla fan. She is portrayed as a cold-hearted woman, but to me she felt more snobbish and bratty. She had a first husband who treated her poorly, so now she treats other people with disdain. I never really understood why she kept Brandr as a thrall (slave). Brandr’s crime was that he drank to much and his father got into a fight and killed Katla’s husband, all while Brandr was gone. Katla keeps Brandr as her thrall in hopes of vengeance against Brandr’s father, who was supposed dead. (Taking vengeance out on a dead man is pointless, so Brandr being a thrall did not make sense to me) Even as the story goes on, Katla is always acting selfishly, she can’t put herself in Brandr’s shoes or try to understand that there is more to the world than her little farm. She does learn a few lessons, but throughout the entire story, I just never really understood her.
As for Brandr, I liked him okay, he’s a strong warrior who can control fire at will. However, he spends the first half of the book in some weird, hurt-feelings and angst over Katla, the woman who unfairly held him in thrall. He never really tries to justify his side of becoming thrall, and he falls in love with Katla pretty easily. The love between them did not make much sense to me, and it’s probably because I had trouble identifying with the characters.
A big issue I had with this book is that I just didn’t get the thrall thing all together. According to this book, someone could kidnap anyone at anytime and make them a slave. Then, the thralls are held in shame for the remainder of their lives. That there are not more rules for creating thralls does not sit well with me. That means that someone could break into another’s home, shackle them in their sleep and call them a thrall. That person would be held in shame, all because they were sleeping, or just taking a walk? I may not be correct in my understanding of how the thrall’s work, but that is how I interpreted what I read.
The first half of the book is pretty slow, that is where the characters are at Katla’s farm and Brandr is in thrall. The second half, they finally branch out, travel, and more action is introduced to the story. I appreciated the action, and that Brandr finally got to be more than a slave. However, through the whole book, I felt a lack of connection with the story. I’m not sure if it was that I simply didn’t identify with the characters, or the writing didn’t draw me in, or if I was just pre-occupied with the business of the summer. In the end, Lord of Fire and Ice was not the best fit for me.
I will say that if readers like romantic fantasy books, especially if the fantasy has some paranormal/magic mixed in, you may enjoy this book, even though it was not my cup of tea. If you want to give this book a try, it released in early July and is on shelves now.
July 19, 2012
I agreed to review Lord of Fire and Ice as some sort of personal challenge. You see, despite several attempts I haven't found a Norse/Viking historical romance I enjoyed, so I was curious to see how Lord of Fire and Ice would fare. But when my fellow blogger friends saw the dated and uninspiring cover and read the cheesy blurb they teased me that it would be an awful read. Well big surprise but Lord of Fire and Ice was a very good read, one I enjoyed a lot! (Which is doubly surprising considering my lack of success with previous Viking romances and the first impression generated by the unappealing cover and blurb).
But now let me tell you why I liked this novel. First of all I enjoyed it because the whole setting made it a breath of fresh air. Instead of the usual Regency drawingrooms/ball rooms we are in snowy hills and Norse huts (and saunas), and Connie Mason and Mia Marlowe definitely took advantage of this setting by wonderfully introducing the reader to some Norse customs and beliefs. I liked that it was different from the usual historical romances and that it was full of interesting details about a culture quite unknown to me. All the research that went into the Norse customs and traditions (just to name a few of the most memorable ones: the bathing ritual, their myths, the wedding preparations and ceremony, inn matki munr, which is a special bond between lovers, kind of like a soulmate connection) was impressive and very interesting.
But besides this very interesting aspect of Lord of Fire and Ice, it was first and foremost a romance. One of my main problems with the previous Viking romances I have read was that they were too harsh and often unromantic for me to enjoy them. That is not the case with Lord of Fire and Ice, this one is a love story combined with some exciting action.
Brandr (whose name means 'sword' in ancient Norse) is about to return home after a 5 year-long absence from the faraway Constantinople when he is drugged and enslaved and given to the widow of a man killed by his father. Katla accepts Brandr as her thrall to avenge the death of her husband by humiliating the mighty son of the man who is responsible for her husband's death, but she realizes that Brandr is a force to reckon with and she can't resist the attraction that sparks between them. Brandr is a delicious hero whose intensity will make your heart palpitate and your toes curl:
"He dropped to one knee before her, point of the sword buried in the smooth dirt, both hands on the ornate hilt. “I give you the edge of my sword, the strength of my body, the breath my life,” Brandr said, his gaze glued on the tips of her slippers peeping from beneath her hem. “If you have need of any of them, they are yours for the asking. And even if you don’t ask, they are still yours. From this day forward, you are my wife. I’ll defend what’s mine as long as there is a beating heart in my body.”"
Katla was a realistic and believable heroine. Even though she is quite hard and very strong willed, I thought that her coldness and efficient rationality suited her Norse widow status, especially considering all the responsibilities she shouldered.
The romance between them was scorching hot, as Brandr very aptly declared:
“You consume me, Katla, and I don’t care a whit. Let the fire burn.”
But then their romance became even better and heartwarming as their burning passion developed into something tender and even more important.
"The cold, dark possibility she was dead stabbed his heart, but he shoved it away. Surely he’d know if she was. He’d feel her absence in the very air around him. His body would refuse to keep breathing in a world where she did not."
The writing was captivating and I liked the images, metaphors used by the authors a lot, as in my opinion they were wonderful in giving more depth and nuance to the descriptions. At times they were prosaic at times more poetic:
"A ponderous bundle of years rode on her frail shoulders, but if Wisdom had a soul, she would look out at the world through Dalla’s calm gray eyes."
"A smile crackled across her face, leaving her as wrinkled as a winter apple."
"The sounds of the approaching guards were nearer now. Fear made her wing-footed. Katla flew across the clearing and disappeared into the thick undergrowth."
"She wept in silence. She couldn’t keen and wail. She was too empty to do anything but let her soul seep from her eyes."
The dialogue between the characters was a bit crude sometimes but it only reinforced the feeling of authenticity of being in a more archaic and wilder time.
There were some paranormal/fantasy elements (Brandr is a fire mage: he can command flames and conjure fire in his palm; lovers share a special bond the inn matki munr, the "mighty passion", a deep connection between soulmates, where they are able to hear each other thoughts) but I wouldn't categorize Lord of Fire and Ice as a paranormal romance or even fantasy romance. It is a Viking romance with some fantasy elements.
Verdict: A wonderful surprise, Lord of Fire and Ice was the very first Norse/Viking historical romance I enjoyed and liked! The writing flew smoothly and I greatly appreciated the evocative narrative and authentic-sounding dialogue. The characters were likable and interesting, and I was very much invested in their lives and struggles. The research that went into the novel was impressive and I very much enjoyed all the details of Norse cutsoms, traditions and beliefs peppered into the story. Lord of Fire and Ice is a romance that will make your heart palpitate and your toes curl, an unusual but wonderful treat for any historical romance lover.
Plot: 9/10
Characters: 8/10
Writing: 9/10
Ending: 8/10 The novel ended too soon after the final battle, it could have done with an epilogue.
Cover: 5/10 It looks dated, too '70s for me, and the story is so much more than what the blurb makes you expect
Overall I giev it 4.5 stars!
But now let me tell you why I liked this novel. First of all I enjoyed it because the whole setting made it a breath of fresh air. Instead of the usual Regency drawingrooms/ball rooms we are in snowy hills and Norse huts (and saunas), and Connie Mason and Mia Marlowe definitely took advantage of this setting by wonderfully introducing the reader to some Norse customs and beliefs. I liked that it was different from the usual historical romances and that it was full of interesting details about a culture quite unknown to me. All the research that went into the Norse customs and traditions (just to name a few of the most memorable ones: the bathing ritual, their myths, the wedding preparations and ceremony, inn matki munr, which is a special bond between lovers, kind of like a soulmate connection) was impressive and very interesting.
But besides this very interesting aspect of Lord of Fire and Ice, it was first and foremost a romance. One of my main problems with the previous Viking romances I have read was that they were too harsh and often unromantic for me to enjoy them. That is not the case with Lord of Fire and Ice, this one is a love story combined with some exciting action.
Brandr (whose name means 'sword' in ancient Norse) is about to return home after a 5 year-long absence from the faraway Constantinople when he is drugged and enslaved and given to the widow of a man killed by his father. Katla accepts Brandr as her thrall to avenge the death of her husband by humiliating the mighty son of the man who is responsible for her husband's death, but she realizes that Brandr is a force to reckon with and she can't resist the attraction that sparks between them. Brandr is a delicious hero whose intensity will make your heart palpitate and your toes curl:
"He dropped to one knee before her, point of the sword buried in the smooth dirt, both hands on the ornate hilt. “I give you the edge of my sword, the strength of my body, the breath my life,” Brandr said, his gaze glued on the tips of her slippers peeping from beneath her hem. “If you have need of any of them, they are yours for the asking. And even if you don’t ask, they are still yours. From this day forward, you are my wife. I’ll defend what’s mine as long as there is a beating heart in my body.”"
Katla was a realistic and believable heroine. Even though she is quite hard and very strong willed, I thought that her coldness and efficient rationality suited her Norse widow status, especially considering all the responsibilities she shouldered.
The romance between them was scorching hot, as Brandr very aptly declared:
“You consume me, Katla, and I don’t care a whit. Let the fire burn.”
But then their romance became even better and heartwarming as their burning passion developed into something tender and even more important.
"The cold, dark possibility she was dead stabbed his heart, but he shoved it away. Surely he’d know if she was. He’d feel her absence in the very air around him. His body would refuse to keep breathing in a world where she did not."
The writing was captivating and I liked the images, metaphors used by the authors a lot, as in my opinion they were wonderful in giving more depth and nuance to the descriptions. At times they were prosaic at times more poetic:
"A ponderous bundle of years rode on her frail shoulders, but if Wisdom had a soul, she would look out at the world through Dalla’s calm gray eyes."
"A smile crackled across her face, leaving her as wrinkled as a winter apple."
"The sounds of the approaching guards were nearer now. Fear made her wing-footed. Katla flew across the clearing and disappeared into the thick undergrowth."
"She wept in silence. She couldn’t keen and wail. She was too empty to do anything but let her soul seep from her eyes."
The dialogue between the characters was a bit crude sometimes but it only reinforced the feeling of authenticity of being in a more archaic and wilder time.
There were some paranormal/fantasy elements (Brandr is a fire mage: he can command flames and conjure fire in his palm; lovers share a special bond the inn matki munr, the "mighty passion", a deep connection between soulmates, where they are able to hear each other thoughts) but I wouldn't categorize Lord of Fire and Ice as a paranormal romance or even fantasy romance. It is a Viking romance with some fantasy elements.
Verdict: A wonderful surprise, Lord of Fire and Ice was the very first Norse/Viking historical romance I enjoyed and liked! The writing flew smoothly and I greatly appreciated the evocative narrative and authentic-sounding dialogue. The characters were likable and interesting, and I was very much invested in their lives and struggles. The research that went into the novel was impressive and I very much enjoyed all the details of Norse cutsoms, traditions and beliefs peppered into the story. Lord of Fire and Ice is a romance that will make your heart palpitate and your toes curl, an unusual but wonderful treat for any historical romance lover.
Plot: 9/10
Characters: 8/10
Writing: 9/10
Ending: 8/10 The novel ended too soon after the final battle, it could have done with an epilogue.
Cover: 5/10 It looks dated, too '70s for me, and the story is so much more than what the blurb makes you expect
Overall I giev it 4.5 stars!
January 23, 2016
I didn't like this book. The concept was promising but the execution made it flat and unrealistic. Not once was I sucked into the story nor did I feel anything for the characters.
Katla was a class A bitch. She was bratty and selfish the whole time and aside from learning a few, small, lessons she didn't really grow much as a character. She treated EVERYONE terribly because her husband wasn't that great (but then people taking out their anger on others never really makes sense to me), she was more concerned with herself and her small farm than the bigger problems in the story, and overall she was a pretty shitty character. There was nothing I could relate to her and there was nothing that made me feel sympathetic for her either. I honestly didn't understand why or how Brandr fell in love with her.
Her reasoning for enslaving Brandr was just as silly and unbelievable. She's making him pay for something his DEAD father did to someone she didn't even like. He's fucking DEAD, how is enslaving his son gonna do anything??? And it was to someone (her husband) she didn't even LIKE. Hell, i would've believed her anger and need for vengeance had she actually LIKED her husband but she didnt. She didn't like him SO much that she became this malicious, mean creature, treating everyone horribly just to feel better. it was dumb, she was dumb, her reasonings were dumb.
Not to mention there was no explanation on the thrall/slave system. Viking's more than anything took slaves from militarily weaker peoples/countries. They didn't just go around and enslave people for the hell of it. The author made it out to be that anyone at anytime no matter what can be enslaved. It just didn't make sense. None of it.
Brandr wasn't that great either, he drank too much (not surprising since they're Vikings and back then fresh water was scarce and used for other things anyway) and he didn't seem to even TRY and explain his side of things.
Ugh, if you can just skip this book. You're not missing anything new or exciting.
Katla was a class A bitch. She was bratty and selfish the whole time and aside from learning a few, small, lessons she didn't really grow much as a character. She treated EVERYONE terribly because her husband wasn't that great (but then people taking out their anger on others never really makes sense to me), she was more concerned with herself and her small farm than the bigger problems in the story, and overall she was a pretty shitty character. There was nothing I could relate to her and there was nothing that made me feel sympathetic for her either. I honestly didn't understand why or how Brandr fell in love with her.
Her reasoning for enslaving Brandr was just as silly and unbelievable. She's making him pay for something his DEAD father did to someone she didn't even like. He's fucking DEAD, how is enslaving his son gonna do anything??? And it was to someone (her husband) she didn't even LIKE. Hell, i would've believed her anger and need for vengeance had she actually LIKED her husband but she didnt. She didn't like him SO much that she became this malicious, mean creature, treating everyone horribly just to feel better. it was dumb, she was dumb, her reasonings were dumb.
Not to mention there was no explanation on the thrall/slave system. Viking's more than anything took slaves from militarily weaker peoples/countries. They didn't just go around and enslave people for the hell of it. The author made it out to be that anyone at anytime no matter what can be enslaved. It just didn't make sense. None of it.
Brandr wasn't that great either, he drank too much (not surprising since they're Vikings and back then fresh water was scarce and used for other things anyway) and he didn't seem to even TRY and explain his side of things.
Ugh, if you can just skip this book. You're not missing anything new or exciting.
September 22, 2012
After reading the blurb I thought that despite the old school romance cover, it would be a paranormal romance I would enjoy. Who wouldn't like a Viking Warrior that can wield fire magic? What I got was a quasi-historical romance with very little paranormal-ness. The hero Brendr, who is very sexy, hides his ability to control fire for pretty much the whole book. There are only a handful of pages where he uses magic. There isn’t even an explanation for why or how he could use fire. The authors took the easy way out and said Brendr had no idea how or why he could use fire, he just could. Maybe it is the urban fantasy fan in me, but I need some explanation if I am going to buy into the story. Brandr is too good to be true and with little depth. His only conflict is not feeling like his father loves him.
I also had a problem with the 'historical' aspect of the story. One thing I need is characters to act like they are from that time period. Our heroine Katla was an independent woman, running her dead husband's farm. We are reminded constantly of her strong but cold personality, but her three brothers are able to make her remarry so they can get her dowry.
This is a very cookie cutter book...
read the rest of the review: http://www.loveromancepassion.com/rev...
I also had a problem with the 'historical' aspect of the story. One thing I need is characters to act like they are from that time period. Our heroine Katla was an independent woman, running her dead husband's farm. We are reminded constantly of her strong but cold personality, but her three brothers are able to make her remarry so they can get her dowry.
This is a very cookie cutter book...
read the rest of the review: http://www.loveromancepassion.com/rev...
January 3, 2013
I loved this book! It reminded me of the historical romances that Johanna Lindsey used to write when I first started reading romances. I guess it was just what I needed for a change in my reading material.
July 18, 2012
GREAT Historical! Full review will post on www.guiltypleasuresbookreviews.com
Thanks!
Thanks!
June 19, 2012
I love Vikings! I mean who doesn’t; they are fierce, tall, proud and so deliciously arrogant. They command, you go, you might not be happy while they are ordering you there, but your happy with the end results.. wink wink… They also tend to be the fiercest of warriors, feared by all! So when I saw this title on Netgalley and our hero was not only a Viking but a fire wielder as well, I was SOLD! I have a fire wielder addiction, I think it’s because I’m a fire sign, we tend to like fire lol. Wrap it up; I’m taking Brandr home with me!
So, did this book live up to my fire and Viking expectations? Eh, it was good, but it was not great There were some good things and some things that were just kind of meh.
Brandr was just so damn agreeable, not that is a bad thing necessarily, but where was the Viking rage damnit? He was poisoned and captured and thrown into Thrall (slavery), he is the son of a Jarl, one of the highest ranks of the Norse political system and he never once tried to escape. He was just kind of eh, serves me right for letting them get the drop on me. He agreed to not try to escape and he doesn’t, seriously?!?! Where is the fun in that if he doesn’t even once even try to escape? I mean he just found out his father is dead and his brother is dying, so he knows his Jarldom has got to be in serious turmoil and he’s content to chop some wood and seduce Katla (not that I minded the seducing), but man that’s kind of lame. He only really got mad at Katla once and it didn’t last very long. He was just way too agreeable for a Viking, they aren’t supposed to be so “go with the flow”! Ok that being said, I did like Brandr. He was sexy in that Viking way, he may have been agreeable and easy going but he is still a Viking warrior and sexy as hell. He does know how to take charge and hitch Katla over his shoulder and take her where he needs to go if he needs to and with Katla that skill will come in handy as she is pretty damn fiesty. Lol I just wanted him to be a little less agreeable, a little more aggressive Viking, I can get agreeable anywhere, but Vikings are Vikings!
Another thing which was kind of disappointment with this book was the fire welding. It was mentioned a bit in the beginning with some flickering candles and then not again until about were almost 70% of the way through the book brieflywhen he set fire to a barn and then not again during the final fight scene when he finally brought out the big guns. I never saw the point of authors giving their hero’s a super power and then basically ignoring it until the final fight scene, what’s the point?!? It’s basically a tease. If you are going to go there, go there, go all in and not skirt around the edge. But that is my personal humble opinion; others might disagree and like the very light touch of paranormal. I’m a paranormal junky so I like my paranormal to be paranormal.
Katla is what you expect from a Viking woman, fierce, protective, and stubborn as hell. She was used to her way and didn’t want a man coming in trying to take her freedom. She was the head of her household and the one in charge and was good at it. Katla, was an interest mix of fierce and vulnerability, like any other woman she had her hopes, but as a woman and head of the household she had to be tougher then everyone and couldn’t show any cracks in her façade. But she so badly wanted children and a husband who loved her and feared that was something she would never get, and when Brandr fell into her lap she was scared that this man might be able to give that to her but he is a Thrall and would never do for a woman of her station, it is unheard of. All hope seems lost, or does it until her hand is forced by her brothers.
The story itself didn’t seem to get off the ground for a while, finally maybe 25-30% of the way through we get direction of where this story is going and the “bad guy” reveals himself. Once we had direction the story really started to develop and go somewhere, we had a destination in mind and a bad guy to book and hiss at. We know how Brandr was brought to us, and kind of the why of it, but not really. I guess it’s not really all that important but I would have liked some of the back story as to why Katla was so intent on revenge. So we know Brandr’s father killed her husband, and there is a vague reference to that it may not have been murder, but that’s it. So what happened, I wanna know! I think Brandr at least deserved to know. So whatever happened, it brought Brandr to Katla, which I can’t be mad at, because, I have to admit their chemistry was pretty explosive from the first glance. Two proud Norse Vikings sizing each other up, a battle of wills, and Brandr intent on seduction and Katla just as intent on avoiding it. Which always makes for a fun sizzling story to see who caves in first, and whose will is stronger, in this case, I think I may have to call it a tie; each was pretty formidable and could hold their own against each other. What I also liked about the book was how the author(s) really included Norse mythology; she/they did not shy away from using the gods in their plot line. The Norse really had some of the more interesting mythology so I am glad it was nicely included in our tale.
Rating: 3.5
So, did this book live up to my fire and Viking expectations? Eh, it was good, but it was not great There were some good things and some things that were just kind of meh.
Brandr was just so damn agreeable, not that is a bad thing necessarily, but where was the Viking rage damnit? He was poisoned and captured and thrown into Thrall (slavery), he is the son of a Jarl, one of the highest ranks of the Norse political system and he never once tried to escape. He was just kind of eh, serves me right for letting them get the drop on me. He agreed to not try to escape and he doesn’t, seriously?!?! Where is the fun in that if he doesn’t even once even try to escape? I mean he just found out his father is dead and his brother is dying, so he knows his Jarldom has got to be in serious turmoil and he’s content to chop some wood and seduce Katla (not that I minded the seducing), but man that’s kind of lame. He only really got mad at Katla once and it didn’t last very long. He was just way too agreeable for a Viking, they aren’t supposed to be so “go with the flow”! Ok that being said, I did like Brandr. He was sexy in that Viking way, he may have been agreeable and easy going but he is still a Viking warrior and sexy as hell. He does know how to take charge and hitch Katla over his shoulder and take her where he needs to go if he needs to and with Katla that skill will come in handy as she is pretty damn fiesty. Lol I just wanted him to be a little less agreeable, a little more aggressive Viking, I can get agreeable anywhere, but Vikings are Vikings!
Another thing which was kind of disappointment with this book was the fire welding. It was mentioned a bit in the beginning with some flickering candles and then not again until about were almost 70% of the way through the book brieflywhen he set fire to a barn and then not again during the final fight scene when he finally brought out the big guns. I never saw the point of authors giving their hero’s a super power and then basically ignoring it until the final fight scene, what’s the point?!? It’s basically a tease. If you are going to go there, go there, go all in and not skirt around the edge. But that is my personal humble opinion; others might disagree and like the very light touch of paranormal. I’m a paranormal junky so I like my paranormal to be paranormal.
Katla is what you expect from a Viking woman, fierce, protective, and stubborn as hell. She was used to her way and didn’t want a man coming in trying to take her freedom. She was the head of her household and the one in charge and was good at it. Katla, was an interest mix of fierce and vulnerability, like any other woman she had her hopes, but as a woman and head of the household she had to be tougher then everyone and couldn’t show any cracks in her façade. But she so badly wanted children and a husband who loved her and feared that was something she would never get, and when Brandr fell into her lap she was scared that this man might be able to give that to her but he is a Thrall and would never do for a woman of her station, it is unheard of. All hope seems lost, or does it until her hand is forced by her brothers.
The story itself didn’t seem to get off the ground for a while, finally maybe 25-30% of the way through we get direction of where this story is going and the “bad guy” reveals himself. Once we had direction the story really started to develop and go somewhere, we had a destination in mind and a bad guy to book and hiss at. We know how Brandr was brought to us, and kind of the why of it, but not really. I guess it’s not really all that important but I would have liked some of the back story as to why Katla was so intent on revenge. So we know Brandr’s father killed her husband, and there is a vague reference to that it may not have been murder, but that’s it. So what happened, I wanna know! I think Brandr at least deserved to know. So whatever happened, it brought Brandr to Katla, which I can’t be mad at, because, I have to admit their chemistry was pretty explosive from the first glance. Two proud Norse Vikings sizing each other up, a battle of wills, and Brandr intent on seduction and Katla just as intent on avoiding it. Which always makes for a fun sizzling story to see who caves in first, and whose will is stronger, in this case, I think I may have to call it a tie; each was pretty formidable and could hold their own against each other. What I also liked about the book was how the author(s) really included Norse mythology; she/they did not shy away from using the gods in their plot line. The Norse really had some of the more interesting mythology so I am glad it was nicely included in our tale.
Rating: 3.5
September 24, 2012
LORD OF FIRE AND ICE is a superb historical romance with charming and fun paranormal twists. Marvelous writing from the fabulous duo of Connie Mason and Mia Marlowe will prove that Vikings have never looked this good!
Brandr, son of Ulf, is returning home after five years as a Varangian Guard for the Byzantine Emperor. This future jarl and fire wielder has experienced his fair share of war and seducing beautiful women. His skills in the pursuit of both passions is legendary and usually leads him into a world of trouble. Following his lustful appetites one night in a tavern, Brandr finds himself forced into an iron collar to live out the remainder of his days enslaved as a thrall. His captors take him to the home of Katla the Black, a woman whose heart is as black as her dark hair.
When Katla discovers his identity, she wants nothing more than to punish Brandr for his father's involvement in the death of her husband. As shameful as Brandr's situation is, he can't escape the bold attraction he shares with his new mistress or the fact that he needs her with a desperation he can't describe. Katla may have wanted revenge, but it's quite possible she's found love instead, because this fire mage is quickly melting her ice-cold heart.
LORD OF FIRE AND ICE isn't your typical Viking romance. The time period may be harsh and cruel, but the characters are not. In fact, this story basically flips the mold of your typical Viking romance. Normally, you would find the overwhelming hero that dominates the heroine, but that is not the case for LORD OF FIRE AND ICE. Seeing the hero basically under the heroine's control in this novel was a delightfully refreshing approach to a worn out sub-genre of historical romance. Yet I firmly believe this would not have been successful without such marvelous characters.
Even if this novel had various flaws, I still would have loved it just for including Brandr! This Nordic Don Juan truly had a heart of gold. He certainly wasn't what I expected and with each chapter I found something new to love about him. I was delightfully impressed with the different aspects of his character and how Ms Mason and Ms Marlowe managed to keep it accurate to the time period yet still have a lovingly romantic hero. When he begins to realize Katla is more to him than a passing attraction, his words would make any ice princess melt:
"I give you the edge of my sword, the strength of my body, the breath of my life," Brandr said, his gaze glued on the tips of her slippers peeping from beneath her hem. "If you have need of any of them, they are yours for the asking. And even if you don't ask, they are still yours...I'll defend what's mine as long as there is a beating heart in my body."
Katla was a great match for the fierce warrior. She was a strong protector of her people and always fighting for as much independence as she could claim. Yet, she has a vulnerable side that easily represents any woman from any time period. Despite her tough exterior, she longs for a family and love. She has closed herself off from any romantic notions because of the pain from her first marriage, but her personal desires still lurk in the back of her mind. Luckily, Brandr was there to help her believe in passion and love again.
With an amazing story like this, you would be foolish to ignore the women behind it. Ms Mason and Ms Marlowe have demonstrated what a perfect pair they make in their second endeavor together. Their combined talents flow effortlessly into one novel where it becomes absolutely impossible to differentiate which voice is telling the story. These characters never lose their identity, this couple never loses their passion and the plot line is always intense. It is nothing short of amazing what these two authors can create together. It is certainly a duo that I hope continues to work together for a very long time!
The only concern I had, and it's a relatively minor one at that, is that there are moments where the dialogue can seem too modern. It isn't really a complaint, because it almost feels as if this was consciously done for the benefit of the reader. Adding more authentic dialogue may have drastically changed the tone of the story. Truthfully it didn't bother me and I preferred it that way, but it was something I noticed. On a different note, I was pleasantly surprised by the authentic details that were added. Readers may find themselves pleasantly surprised by the insight on the aspects of life in a Nordic village. It certainly showed the authors' extensive research to become familiar with the time period and convey a genuine setting.
Connie Mason and Mia Marlowe's LORD OF FIRE AND ICE is a passionate, adventurous and delightful novel. It has thoroughly captivating characters that you will find absolutely irresistible and their romance will win your heart. Once you finish the novel, it will make you hungry to read more from this perfect pair. Forget what you know about Viking romances...Connie Mason and Mia Marlowe will show you how it's done!
Lisa Jo @ The Romance Reviews
February 20, 2021
Yep. Apparently I will read absolutely anything you put in front of me.
October 27, 2025
boring with a capital b.
August 19, 2012
I have to say that I’m enjoying this collaboration between the old and new guard of historical romance that Sourcebooks has brought about. The characters and storylines so far born of this joining are intriguing and fun. The snatches of humor balance out the evilness of the times and how these characters had to live day to day. They took life as it came to them, lived it the best they could, and hopefully survived to live happily ever after. Connie Mason and Mia Marlowe put all that together into stories that satisfy the romance reader.
Brandr the Far-Traveled is returning home after five long years away, after seeing other parts of the world and learning their secrets, when he’s waylaid by a group of men. He is enthralled and given to their sister, Katla the Black. She’s looking for revenge against Brandr’s father for the death of her husband. What better way to exact that revenge than with the man’s son, especially since the man himself is now dead. But this thrall is not the usual slave. Nor the usual man. Though he vows not to run, Brandr doesn’t bow to her completely when she commands him. Learning his father has died and his brother, the current jarl, is ill, Brandr must bide his time with Katla before making it home to see how all fares. He doesn’t consider that much of a hardship, however, considering how feisty and sensually alluring his mistress is.
Having freedom to do as she wishes since becoming a widow, Katla is also the sole bearer of the responsibility of her people. Though she has a big and loving heart and she enjoys taking care of everyone – along with her errant brothers – what she’s just beginning to realize is how stressful it all is. Some help would be a welcome change. When her brothers coerce her into choosing a new husband from three suitors they will pick for her, she goes along with it, hoping they won’t be able anyone too soon but wishing for the right man to share her burden. She’s surprised, however, when two of her three choices visit their village and are eager to become masters of her domain, each for very different reasons. But it’s Brandr who has shown her affection, loyalty, and, she hopes, love, despite the fact he’ll forever be branded a slave.
Unknown to all the residents throughout the fjords, evil is preparing to rear its ugly head in an attempt to take over and bring forth the Old Ones who long ago hungered for blood and death. It’s not until Katla is forced to marry Brandr, thus releasing him from his enthrallment, and he then forces her to accompany him home that this evilness is discovered. Brandr must go behind his brother’s back to defend their home, using his gift of controlling fire to fight against insurmountable odds. It’s on this journey that Katla learns more about herself than she ever thought possible, that she receives two of the greatest gifts of her life, and that she may lose it all if the gods feel she has too much.
I like how the relationship grows between Brandr and Katla, from master and slave to lustful lovers to respectful partners full of love for the other. Katla has to learn to trust if she wants the love she’s always dreamed about. Of course, it’s not easy for a woman in her situation to do so. Brandr is full of life, humor, and is as sexy as can be. And all that is much more admirable once you find out how he grew up. You’d expect him to be bitter and sarcastic. The love scenes are intense but also fun between them. They really do have a good time together once they begin to know each other.
I don’t read many Viking stories, but I feel these authors have the feel of the times and the way of life these people would have had. They pull no punches when evil and/or just plain meanness is needed to give scenes a dose of reality. Katla’s brothers have a lot of growing to do, especially her oldest sibling, and it’s nice to see that and how he begins to relate to her better. The villain is one piece of work, megalomaniac that he is. I enjoyed the way he’s double crossed and then gets what’s coming to him at the end.
While this book, for me, isn’t as good as their first collaboration, Sins of the Highlander, Ms. Mason and Ms. Marlowe still pack a good wallop with characters and storyline, along with hard-won love and romance. A fine job, indeed!
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
Brandr the Far-Traveled is returning home after five long years away, after seeing other parts of the world and learning their secrets, when he’s waylaid by a group of men. He is enthralled and given to their sister, Katla the Black. She’s looking for revenge against Brandr’s father for the death of her husband. What better way to exact that revenge than with the man’s son, especially since the man himself is now dead. But this thrall is not the usual slave. Nor the usual man. Though he vows not to run, Brandr doesn’t bow to her completely when she commands him. Learning his father has died and his brother, the current jarl, is ill, Brandr must bide his time with Katla before making it home to see how all fares. He doesn’t consider that much of a hardship, however, considering how feisty and sensually alluring his mistress is.
Having freedom to do as she wishes since becoming a widow, Katla is also the sole bearer of the responsibility of her people. Though she has a big and loving heart and she enjoys taking care of everyone – along with her errant brothers – what she’s just beginning to realize is how stressful it all is. Some help would be a welcome change. When her brothers coerce her into choosing a new husband from three suitors they will pick for her, she goes along with it, hoping they won’t be able anyone too soon but wishing for the right man to share her burden. She’s surprised, however, when two of her three choices visit their village and are eager to become masters of her domain, each for very different reasons. But it’s Brandr who has shown her affection, loyalty, and, she hopes, love, despite the fact he’ll forever be branded a slave.
Unknown to all the residents throughout the fjords, evil is preparing to rear its ugly head in an attempt to take over and bring forth the Old Ones who long ago hungered for blood and death. It’s not until Katla is forced to marry Brandr, thus releasing him from his enthrallment, and he then forces her to accompany him home that this evilness is discovered. Brandr must go behind his brother’s back to defend their home, using his gift of controlling fire to fight against insurmountable odds. It’s on this journey that Katla learns more about herself than she ever thought possible, that she receives two of the greatest gifts of her life, and that she may lose it all if the gods feel she has too much.
I like how the relationship grows between Brandr and Katla, from master and slave to lustful lovers to respectful partners full of love for the other. Katla has to learn to trust if she wants the love she’s always dreamed about. Of course, it’s not easy for a woman in her situation to do so. Brandr is full of life, humor, and is as sexy as can be. And all that is much more admirable once you find out how he grew up. You’d expect him to be bitter and sarcastic. The love scenes are intense but also fun between them. They really do have a good time together once they begin to know each other.
I don’t read many Viking stories, but I feel these authors have the feel of the times and the way of life these people would have had. They pull no punches when evil and/or just plain meanness is needed to give scenes a dose of reality. Katla’s brothers have a lot of growing to do, especially her oldest sibling, and it’s nice to see that and how he begins to relate to her better. The villain is one piece of work, megalomaniac that he is. I enjoyed the way he’s double crossed and then gets what’s coming to him at the end.
While this book, for me, isn’t as good as their first collaboration, Sins of the Highlander, Ms. Mason and Ms. Marlowe still pack a good wallop with characters and storyline, along with hard-won love and romance. A fine job, indeed!
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
June 17, 2012
Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...
After five years away from home, serving as a Varangian Guard for the Byzantine emperor, Brandr, son of Ulf has finally reached his beloved Hardanger Fjord. As the son of the current jarl, a strong warrior and fire mage in his own right, he is nonetheless captured, stripped and, wearing the collar of a thrall, or slave, is presented thus to Katla, head of a farmstead and all of its surrounding people. Katla’s brothers captured Brandr as retribution for his father murdering Katla’s husband. They seek to humiliate both Brandr and his father with Brandr’s thrall status. As time goes by, an attraction forms between the two. When Katla’s brothers insist she choose a husband from one of the wealthy men they parade before her, as an independent spirit, Katla surprises all by making her choice…Brandr. But there's more than marriage in store, there's political wrangling and betrayal ahead for them all. Will Katla and Brandr survive to make a real marriage? Can these two strong and stubborn people learn it is better to unite than fight? Katla will need Brandr’s help and support to save her people from the evil that is coming for them all.
Connie Mason and Mia Marlowe have written an intriguing and absorbing historical look at the people of the North, with all the harsh and unyielding conditions of the time, and the passions that ruled the people. This is not a pretty world: it is hard living, harsh conditions and danger at every turn. The people have learned that they need to fight for what is theirs, and revenge is swift in many cases. This is a well-crafted world, and I was drawn to the characters from the beginning. The authors were able to bring to life not only the passions ruling the characters, but the small joys and disappointments inherent in the rough life these people lived.
Katla is strong and stubborn, determined to care for her people after the death of her husband, even though theirs was never a love match. She doesn’t need another husband, someone to take over and ruin all the good she's done for her people. When her brothers present her with a naked and bound Brandr, she was, at first, determined to make him suffer for the sins of his father. But as time goes by, she begins to respect first his strength, and then to admire his honor and his beauty. I enjoyed watching Katla test Brandr’s limits, and her open minded appreciation of his strength and skill in all he does. I liked watching as she finally discovered that she wanted to be desired by him and her sudden insecurity where he's concerned.
Brandr Ulfson is a strong man, and an honorable one. From his first appearance, naked, shorn and bound, there's never an indication that he's less of a man, or warrior than before. He's determined to not bring shame to his family, even as he's being belittled and treated as the basest of slaves. As he realizes why he's been treated as he was, he knows that he must accept his fate as revenge for what his father took from these people: their lord, leader and husand. As his attraction for Katla grows, I enjoyed watching the small tricks he would pull, to make her accept him as more than just her thrall. I enjoyed watching as he discovered a love he never counted on with Katla.
There's a dangerous hidden agenda with one of the prospective suitors brought before Katla for her choice as husband. Katla’s brothers each have a motivation to see her wed: each has plans for a future that doesn’t include staying on the farmstead as gentleman farmers. When the danger strikes, they all realize the one who can help them is Brandr, who is now Katla’s husband. But betrayal is around every turn in the road, and soon, everyone is in peril for their lives. There are several surprising twists and lots of passion and fighting to keep the reader hanging on every word. Katla nd Brandr enjoy a very hard won happy ever after, but only after severe trials and tribulation. I recommend this for historical lovers who like danger with their happy endings.
After five years away from home, serving as a Varangian Guard for the Byzantine emperor, Brandr, son of Ulf has finally reached his beloved Hardanger Fjord. As the son of the current jarl, a strong warrior and fire mage in his own right, he is nonetheless captured, stripped and, wearing the collar of a thrall, or slave, is presented thus to Katla, head of a farmstead and all of its surrounding people. Katla’s brothers captured Brandr as retribution for his father murdering Katla’s husband. They seek to humiliate both Brandr and his father with Brandr’s thrall status. As time goes by, an attraction forms between the two. When Katla’s brothers insist she choose a husband from one of the wealthy men they parade before her, as an independent spirit, Katla surprises all by making her choice…Brandr. But there's more than marriage in store, there's political wrangling and betrayal ahead for them all. Will Katla and Brandr survive to make a real marriage? Can these two strong and stubborn people learn it is better to unite than fight? Katla will need Brandr’s help and support to save her people from the evil that is coming for them all.
Connie Mason and Mia Marlowe have written an intriguing and absorbing historical look at the people of the North, with all the harsh and unyielding conditions of the time, and the passions that ruled the people. This is not a pretty world: it is hard living, harsh conditions and danger at every turn. The people have learned that they need to fight for what is theirs, and revenge is swift in many cases. This is a well-crafted world, and I was drawn to the characters from the beginning. The authors were able to bring to life not only the passions ruling the characters, but the small joys and disappointments inherent in the rough life these people lived.
Katla is strong and stubborn, determined to care for her people after the death of her husband, even though theirs was never a love match. She doesn’t need another husband, someone to take over and ruin all the good she's done for her people. When her brothers present her with a naked and bound Brandr, she was, at first, determined to make him suffer for the sins of his father. But as time goes by, she begins to respect first his strength, and then to admire his honor and his beauty. I enjoyed watching Katla test Brandr’s limits, and her open minded appreciation of his strength and skill in all he does. I liked watching as she finally discovered that she wanted to be desired by him and her sudden insecurity where he's concerned.
Brandr Ulfson is a strong man, and an honorable one. From his first appearance, naked, shorn and bound, there's never an indication that he's less of a man, or warrior than before. He's determined to not bring shame to his family, even as he's being belittled and treated as the basest of slaves. As he realizes why he's been treated as he was, he knows that he must accept his fate as revenge for what his father took from these people: their lord, leader and husand. As his attraction for Katla grows, I enjoyed watching the small tricks he would pull, to make her accept him as more than just her thrall. I enjoyed watching as he discovered a love he never counted on with Katla.
There's a dangerous hidden agenda with one of the prospective suitors brought before Katla for her choice as husband. Katla’s brothers each have a motivation to see her wed: each has plans for a future that doesn’t include staying on the farmstead as gentleman farmers. When the danger strikes, they all realize the one who can help them is Brandr, who is now Katla’s husband. But betrayal is around every turn in the road, and soon, everyone is in peril for their lives. There are several surprising twists and lots of passion and fighting to keep the reader hanging on every word. Katla nd Brandr enjoy a very hard won happy ever after, but only after severe trials and tribulation. I recommend this for historical lovers who like danger with their happy endings.
August 2, 2012
Kimber's review posted on Guilty Pleasures
Lord of Fire and Ice is a wonderfully well- written, sensual historic novel with adventure and excitement. I love being pulled into a story, especially when it involves a hot Viking warrior who stops at nothing to win the heart of a woman everyone deems “icy.” I felt as if I was taken back in time and easily pictured myself on a ship viewing the breath-taking scenery while I watched the story unfold right in front of my eyes.
The story begins with Brandr blowing off some much needed steam after being away on a 5-year quest for the emperor, only to be drugged, abducted, and taken some distance where he is now enslaved to Katla the Black. From the moment his naked body is dumped on her floor and collared as a slave, he is taken by her beauty and backbone. Katla is a widow in charge of her homestead where she makes sure everyone is safe and fed. She has too much responsibility on her shoulders to even think about being with a man, much less one that serves as her thrall (slave), or so she wants us to believe. But, the man is too fine and sexy for her not to notice and he slowly begins to wear her down.
I LOVED Brandr’s character. When you have a guy who decides what he wants, even though the subject of his affection is blocking his every move and seems to want nothing to do with him, but he continues to pursue her with kindness, direct and indirect, how can you NOT fall in love with someone like that? He was so charming the people in her village accepted him and got along with him as well as her brothers which definitely has meaning since he is a slave. Normally, thralls were looked down upon and people shied away from them because of their status. He felt bound by his word, didn’t escape even though he could have, worked hard and did not expect any special treatment because of his lineage, and therefore gained the respect of the people. In my opinion, there was nothing not to like about him. As much as she tried to hide her true self, after closely watching how she acted when he wasn’t around, he had her pegged long before she ever admitted to any feelings towards him.
Kata’s character was appealing as well. Yes, she treated Brandr like the slave he was and could be at times mean spirited, but then she would regret her treatment of him and we got a glimpse of her vulnerable side. Her husband took a bed slave because he wanted an heir and she was unsuccessful at conceiving, and because of this she suffered from low self-esteem. She also longed to have a very strong bonding with her mate, something called inn matki munr, where you are so close and connected with your mate you can hear each other’s thoughts, but has all but given up on the idea. I loved how her layers were peeled away, one by one, and you realize why she puts up all those defenses. From that point in the story it was easy to sympathize with her and begin to pull for her and them as a couple. Once she begins to lower her shields, it gets hot fast and the ice quickly turns to steam, if you know what I mean. Very steamy indeed!!
From experience, I know some romance readers are intimidated by stories in certain time periods. For me, after several chapters in something clicked, and I was pulling for them to become a couple, plus trying to figure out who and where the attack on their land was coming from, it became an exciting tale I couldn’t put down until I finished. So, for someone who was not familiar with Nordic history or any of the terminology involving this time period – this simple southern girl followed along just fine. I would say this book is for anyone who appreciates a really sweet, but passionate love story with strong characters and gripping action, no matter the time frame. I totally escaped into this mythical romantic story of love and trust and enjoyed every minute of it and I bet you will too.
Kimber gives Lord of Fire and Ice a solid 4 stars.
Lord of Fire and Ice is a wonderfully well- written, sensual historic novel with adventure and excitement. I love being pulled into a story, especially when it involves a hot Viking warrior who stops at nothing to win the heart of a woman everyone deems “icy.” I felt as if I was taken back in time and easily pictured myself on a ship viewing the breath-taking scenery while I watched the story unfold right in front of my eyes.
The story begins with Brandr blowing off some much needed steam after being away on a 5-year quest for the emperor, only to be drugged, abducted, and taken some distance where he is now enslaved to Katla the Black. From the moment his naked body is dumped on her floor and collared as a slave, he is taken by her beauty and backbone. Katla is a widow in charge of her homestead where she makes sure everyone is safe and fed. She has too much responsibility on her shoulders to even think about being with a man, much less one that serves as her thrall (slave), or so she wants us to believe. But, the man is too fine and sexy for her not to notice and he slowly begins to wear her down.
I LOVED Brandr’s character. When you have a guy who decides what he wants, even though the subject of his affection is blocking his every move and seems to want nothing to do with him, but he continues to pursue her with kindness, direct and indirect, how can you NOT fall in love with someone like that? He was so charming the people in her village accepted him and got along with him as well as her brothers which definitely has meaning since he is a slave. Normally, thralls were looked down upon and people shied away from them because of their status. He felt bound by his word, didn’t escape even though he could have, worked hard and did not expect any special treatment because of his lineage, and therefore gained the respect of the people. In my opinion, there was nothing not to like about him. As much as she tried to hide her true self, after closely watching how she acted when he wasn’t around, he had her pegged long before she ever admitted to any feelings towards him.
Kata’s character was appealing as well. Yes, she treated Brandr like the slave he was and could be at times mean spirited, but then she would regret her treatment of him and we got a glimpse of her vulnerable side. Her husband took a bed slave because he wanted an heir and she was unsuccessful at conceiving, and because of this she suffered from low self-esteem. She also longed to have a very strong bonding with her mate, something called inn matki munr, where you are so close and connected with your mate you can hear each other’s thoughts, but has all but given up on the idea. I loved how her layers were peeled away, one by one, and you realize why she puts up all those defenses. From that point in the story it was easy to sympathize with her and begin to pull for her and them as a couple. Once she begins to lower her shields, it gets hot fast and the ice quickly turns to steam, if you know what I mean. Very steamy indeed!!
From experience, I know some romance readers are intimidated by stories in certain time periods. For me, after several chapters in something clicked, and I was pulling for them to become a couple, plus trying to figure out who and where the attack on their land was coming from, it became an exciting tale I couldn’t put down until I finished. So, for someone who was not familiar with Nordic history or any of the terminology involving this time period – this simple southern girl followed along just fine. I would say this book is for anyone who appreciates a really sweet, but passionate love story with strong characters and gripping action, no matter the time frame. I totally escaped into this mythical romantic story of love and trust and enjoyed every minute of it and I bet you will too.
Kimber gives Lord of Fire and Ice a solid 4 stars.
June 18, 2017
This is my second time reading from this combination of authors, Connie Mason and Mia Marlowe. The first experience was with a Highlander/Scottish romance, which I have a wee soft spot for, and it was really good. This time it's Vikings! A subject matter I have never sampled before, with the addition of some magic/fantasy elements.
The romance was very compelling but I admit to a certain amount of leeriness over the fact that Brandr was taken as a thrall/slave by the heroine. I knew that before going in, but somehow it sounded funnier in the premise than I found it in truth. Partly I think the reason for my discomfort was because Brandr's character was so lovely and strong and proud that it was galling to see him talked about as a lowly thrall and sneered at by people who were no better than he, as a Jarl's son, was.
It also caused my appreciation of Katla's character to cool quite significantly, which is a shame because she was quite amusing when she wasn't being ridiculous and asking him to kiss her foot and such. Her motivations were that Brandr's father had killed her husband leaving her a widow in charge of a large, communal dwelling, a Longhouse, all by herself at only her mid-twenties. Her three younger brothers, in all their wisdom, brought her a hog-tied and doped up Brandr has a present. Saying if she refused to re-wed, she at least needed a strong slave to help about the place. Initially she refused, but when it was revealed who Brandr was and that he was the son of her husband's killer, she changed her mind.
Having never read a Viking romance before this whole idea of slaves/thralls was completely alien to me and I have no idea if it's a regularly used concept or not, but it sat a little ill with me if truth be told. What it did do, however, was make for very interesting dynamics between the two lead characters.
I'm not sure if the addition of magic was beneficial or not because it was largely ignored for most of the novel and there was no other world-building or explanations provided as to why Brandr, in an otherwise magic-less world, could make fire out of thin air. The books read like a regular historical romance set in the real world, so to believe one person could do such a thing was difficult. If there were others who could do it, or there was other magical differences between our world and that one, it might have made more sense, but to just throw it into a historical novel, almost as an afterthought, or to fit it into a genre category, it didn't work.
However, the passion is undeniable. These two ladies certainly know how to write sensually erotic scenes. Nothing vulgar or tasteless, but the sexual tension at times was almost palpable. I almost didn't want them to ever have sex because the denial stage was so enjoyable! There were also some sweet and amusing scenes between the two, and these more than made up for my squeamishness over the thrall thing, and I ended up enjoying the book a lot, almost like a guilty pleasure.
3.5 Stars! ★★★ 1/2
Review Copy: Received from the publisher for an honest review
The romance was very compelling but I admit to a certain amount of leeriness over the fact that Brandr was taken as a thrall/slave by the heroine. I knew that before going in, but somehow it sounded funnier in the premise than I found it in truth. Partly I think the reason for my discomfort was because Brandr's character was so lovely and strong and proud that it was galling to see him talked about as a lowly thrall and sneered at by people who were no better than he, as a Jarl's son, was.
It also caused my appreciation of Katla's character to cool quite significantly, which is a shame because she was quite amusing when she wasn't being ridiculous and asking him to kiss her foot and such. Her motivations were that Brandr's father had killed her husband leaving her a widow in charge of a large, communal dwelling, a Longhouse, all by herself at only her mid-twenties. Her three younger brothers, in all their wisdom, brought her a hog-tied and doped up Brandr has a present. Saying if she refused to re-wed, she at least needed a strong slave to help about the place. Initially she refused, but when it was revealed who Brandr was and that he was the son of her husband's killer, she changed her mind.
Having never read a Viking romance before this whole idea of slaves/thralls was completely alien to me and I have no idea if it's a regularly used concept or not, but it sat a little ill with me if truth be told. What it did do, however, was make for very interesting dynamics between the two lead characters.
I'm not sure if the addition of magic was beneficial or not because it was largely ignored for most of the novel and there was no other world-building or explanations provided as to why Brandr, in an otherwise magic-less world, could make fire out of thin air. The books read like a regular historical romance set in the real world, so to believe one person could do such a thing was difficult. If there were others who could do it, or there was other magical differences between our world and that one, it might have made more sense, but to just throw it into a historical novel, almost as an afterthought, or to fit it into a genre category, it didn't work.
However, the passion is undeniable. These two ladies certainly know how to write sensually erotic scenes. Nothing vulgar or tasteless, but the sexual tension at times was almost palpable. I almost didn't want them to ever have sex because the denial stage was so enjoyable! There were also some sweet and amusing scenes between the two, and these more than made up for my squeamishness over the thrall thing, and I ended up enjoying the book a lot, almost like a guilty pleasure.
3.5 Stars! ★★★ 1/2
Review Copy: Received from the publisher for an honest review
April 22, 2013
**original review posted at Romancing Rakes For The Love of Romance**
A fire mage turned thrall and a woman bent on revenge come together in a fiery explosion of attraction, lust and eventually love. Isn't that how most stories go? At least the attraction, lust and love part.
Brandr the Far-Traveled let his manhood lead him into slavery. Yup. A lovely looking woman, some drugged wine and bam! he's been collared. The son of a nobleman has been made a slave. And the kicker? He's the slave to the woman whose husband was killed by his father.
Katla the Black has taken care of her people since her husband died. She has it in her mind to avenge her husband's death and when her brothers bring Brandr to their village, she feels like she's found her revenge. The catch? In order to humiliate Brandr by making him her thrall, she must agree to marry a man of her brother's choosing. Three men will visit the village and she must pick one of them.
Brandr and Katla are very attracted to each other but good gracious, that's not supposed to happen. Ha! Good luck with that you two.
Suddenly it becomes a game of cat and mouse. Will Katla cave in and order Brandr to kiss just more than the bottom of her foot or will Brandr push as far as he can to seduce Katla into allowing him into her bed? What about the three suitors she must pick from? Will she throw aside the intense feelings she has for Brandr to wed another man so her exchange with her brothers is fulfilled?
Favorite Quote:
Overall: This was my first Connie Mason/Mia Marlowe collaboration that I've read and certainly won't be my last. I enjoyed the fact that Katla was strong-willed and took care of her people. Who needs a man to do that when her late husband left everything to her? She was feisty, quick witted and certainly kept Brandr on his toes. Brandr reminded me a bit of Thor aka Chris Hemsworth with a side of ASkars (Vampire Eric from True Blood). Keep picturing that as you read. You're welcome :) Brandr was as fierce as he was smolderingly passionate. From the moment he sees Katla, he becomes a total horndog. Sheesh! But then again, what man wouldn't? The chemistry between Brandr and Katla practically singed my eyebrows as well as turned up the temperature in the room. Connie Mason and Mia Marlowe are definitely a duo to put on your 'must read' list.
***review copy provided by author***
A fire mage turned thrall and a woman bent on revenge come together in a fiery explosion of attraction, lust and eventually love. Isn't that how most stories go? At least the attraction, lust and love part.
Brandr the Far-Traveled let his manhood lead him into slavery. Yup. A lovely looking woman, some drugged wine and bam! he's been collared. The son of a nobleman has been made a slave. And the kicker? He's the slave to the woman whose husband was killed by his father.
Katla the Black has taken care of her people since her husband died. She has it in her mind to avenge her husband's death and when her brothers bring Brandr to their village, she feels like she's found her revenge. The catch? In order to humiliate Brandr by making him her thrall, she must agree to marry a man of her brother's choosing. Three men will visit the village and she must pick one of them.
Brandr and Katla are very attracted to each other but good gracious, that's not supposed to happen. Ha! Good luck with that you two.
Suddenly it becomes a game of cat and mouse. Will Katla cave in and order Brandr to kiss just more than the bottom of her foot or will Brandr push as far as he can to seduce Katla into allowing him into her bed? What about the three suitors she must pick from? Will she throw aside the intense feelings she has for Brandr to wed another man so her exchange with her brothers is fulfilled?
Favorite Quote:
She snorted. Everything was a struggle with this man. He challenged her at every step. No matter how long Brandr Ulfson wore the iron collar, he'd probably never think of himself as her thrall.
Overall: This was my first Connie Mason/Mia Marlowe collaboration that I've read and certainly won't be my last. I enjoyed the fact that Katla was strong-willed and took care of her people. Who needs a man to do that when her late husband left everything to her? She was feisty, quick witted and certainly kept Brandr on his toes. Brandr reminded me a bit of Thor aka Chris Hemsworth with a side of ASkars (Vampire Eric from True Blood). Keep picturing that as you read. You're welcome :) Brandr was as fierce as he was smolderingly passionate. From the moment he sees Katla, he becomes a total horndog. Sheesh! But then again, what man wouldn't? The chemistry between Brandr and Katla practically singed my eyebrows as well as turned up the temperature in the room. Connie Mason and Mia Marlowe are definitely a duo to put on your 'must read' list.
***review copy provided by author***
July 23, 2012
You can read this review and more at Forever Book Lover.
I received this ARC from netGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Wow, my first viking book!! Very steamy and sensual! Who knew that these warriors could be passionate and romantic heros. Brandr was a warrior with the ability to conjur up fire, until he was poisoned and capture and an iron collar was place upon his neck.
Katla was a strong minded warrior of her own, she is a widow, responsible for her farmstead and the people that live within it. Karla wants to be desired for herself not for the land that comes with such a bond. She dreams of the mighty passion, she yearns for it. A bond so strong and intimate that lovers could hear each others thoughts. She hopes for this with her first marriage, but instead her husband leaves her bed once a month, has his own thrall, a sex slave he would go to when Katla had her monthly cycle. What a dog!!
Her brothers bring her a gift one night, a thrall (Brandr), the son of the man responsible for the death of her husband. She was out for revenge of his death, but to keep the thrall she has to agree to the marry the man of their choosing.
I was hoping for more of a fight from Brandr when he became held against his will, being the warrior he took the duty of slave with little fight. It was almost anti climatic. The other thing that didn't fit is the whole "fire" thing, it is in the title, it is in the cover art and our hero warrior may have demonstrated some of his abilities but I would not say that this was a "paranormal" book in as much as it was a romance book. There was more fire and sparks in their intimacy then coming from our hero.
Despite the above, the book was filled with a wonderful love story developing between Katla and Brandr. When it was down to the three men that Katla had to decide upon, she chose Brandr, knowing that once she removed the collar he would depart and return to his land. But his love was strong with or without the collar, she finally got her dream, the mighty passion, hearing Brandr voice in her head. Still untrusting of his intentions, it took a bit before he was able to hear her voice, but in the end these two find the true HEA.
Connie Mason and Mia Marlowe offer up one compelling and sizzling read. There is kidnapping, torture, revenge, passion and love. Sit back and be entertained. This would be one to put on your TBR list.
I received this ARC from netGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Wow, my first viking book!! Very steamy and sensual! Who knew that these warriors could be passionate and romantic heros. Brandr was a warrior with the ability to conjur up fire, until he was poisoned and capture and an iron collar was place upon his neck.
Katla was a strong minded warrior of her own, she is a widow, responsible for her farmstead and the people that live within it. Karla wants to be desired for herself not for the land that comes with such a bond. She dreams of the mighty passion, she yearns for it. A bond so strong and intimate that lovers could hear each others thoughts. She hopes for this with her first marriage, but instead her husband leaves her bed once a month, has his own thrall, a sex slave he would go to when Katla had her monthly cycle. What a dog!!
Her brothers bring her a gift one night, a thrall (Brandr), the son of the man responsible for the death of her husband. She was out for revenge of his death, but to keep the thrall she has to agree to the marry the man of their choosing.
I was hoping for more of a fight from Brandr when he became held against his will, being the warrior he took the duty of slave with little fight. It was almost anti climatic. The other thing that didn't fit is the whole "fire" thing, it is in the title, it is in the cover art and our hero warrior may have demonstrated some of his abilities but I would not say that this was a "paranormal" book in as much as it was a romance book. There was more fire and sparks in their intimacy then coming from our hero.
Despite the above, the book was filled with a wonderful love story developing between Katla and Brandr. When it was down to the three men that Katla had to decide upon, she chose Brandr, knowing that once she removed the collar he would depart and return to his land. But his love was strong with or without the collar, she finally got her dream, the mighty passion, hearing Brandr voice in her head. Still untrusting of his intentions, it took a bit before he was able to hear her voice, but in the end these two find the true HEA.
All I know is while I draw breath, all I am is yours.
Connie Mason and Mia Marlowe offer up one compelling and sizzling read. There is kidnapping, torture, revenge, passion and love. Sit back and be entertained. This would be one to put on your TBR list.
July 31, 2012
Posted on Romancing the Book's blog
Reviewed by Crystal
Review Copy Provided by Netgalley
Lord of Fire and Ice was a story that was told by two great women coming together and words just exploding off the page.
In a way, I believe Brandr gets whats coming to him. He had been warned to not be ruled with what was between his legs, it could be his downfall. To think such a man could fall because of trickery from such young men. I liked his spirit. He went along with things as long as it didn’t go against his upbringing. He also had a lot of passion but he also kept his word and I love a man like that.
Katla seems like a woman with a heart of ice to everyone but she hides her true feelings inside and doesn’t let anyone see it. She has always longed to feel the love of inn matki munr. Which is a deep love that a woman and man feel for each other and they can talk to each other in their minds. For Katla to do this she needs to let go of the part of herself that she keeps hidden.
I enjoyed the way the story was written and the interaction between all the characters. You can tell that Katla loves all three of her brothers and she wants them to grow up. When they show signs of that she doesn’t want to realize it. She is a strong woman that carries all the burdens of her people.
Katla just wants to be loved and when she meets Brandr sparks start to ignite. I loved watching them fight their feelings. When Brandr got his feelings hurt you could feel it. When they finally came together it just got better and better every time.
The story was pretty fast paced. Sometimes I did catch myself wanting it to go faster so I could see what was going to happen next. Every once in awhile I would notice an i in between paragraphs. I don’t know if it was just the book that I read or if they all have it in them. Sometimes it would take a little away from the story because I would put the i in there when I was reading and it wouldn’t make sense.
All in all this was a great romance of a man coming into himself and realizing that he had a gift and it ended up being a blessing not a curse. A woman coming to terms with her first marriage and everything her dead husband had put her through. She had to learn to trust other people. When they both could do that they found the love they had been waiting for.
I would recommend this book to everyone and you might need a dictionary for some of the words but it only makes you smarter.
Reviewed by Crystal
Review Copy Provided by Netgalley
Lord of Fire and Ice was a story that was told by two great women coming together and words just exploding off the page.
In a way, I believe Brandr gets whats coming to him. He had been warned to not be ruled with what was between his legs, it could be his downfall. To think such a man could fall because of trickery from such young men. I liked his spirit. He went along with things as long as it didn’t go against his upbringing. He also had a lot of passion but he also kept his word and I love a man like that.
Katla seems like a woman with a heart of ice to everyone but she hides her true feelings inside and doesn’t let anyone see it. She has always longed to feel the love of inn matki munr. Which is a deep love that a woman and man feel for each other and they can talk to each other in their minds. For Katla to do this she needs to let go of the part of herself that she keeps hidden.
I enjoyed the way the story was written and the interaction between all the characters. You can tell that Katla loves all three of her brothers and she wants them to grow up. When they show signs of that she doesn’t want to realize it. She is a strong woman that carries all the burdens of her people.
Katla just wants to be loved and when she meets Brandr sparks start to ignite. I loved watching them fight their feelings. When Brandr got his feelings hurt you could feel it. When they finally came together it just got better and better every time.
The story was pretty fast paced. Sometimes I did catch myself wanting it to go faster so I could see what was going to happen next. Every once in awhile I would notice an i in between paragraphs. I don’t know if it was just the book that I read or if they all have it in them. Sometimes it would take a little away from the story because I would put the i in there when I was reading and it wouldn’t make sense.
All in all this was a great romance of a man coming into himself and realizing that he had a gift and it ended up being a blessing not a curse. A woman coming to terms with her first marriage and everything her dead husband had put her through. She had to learn to trust other people. When they both could do that they found the love they had been waiting for.
I would recommend this book to everyone and you might need a dictionary for some of the words but it only makes you smarter.
July 29, 2025
Brandr has certainly fallen a great height from his old life. As the son of a powerful Lord and a famous warrior in his own right, Brandr had a happy life. Until his father died, his brother fell ill and Brandi was captured and enslaved. His new master is a beautiful woman who's husband was killed by Brandr's father, and that lust for her is what keeps Brandr her
slave. His friends offer to help him break free but he refuses. He offers his mistress instead his vow to remain by her side.
Katia has held the clan together the best she could after the death of her husband yet her brothers insist on sending her suitors for her hand in marriage. None of them appeal yet when she is presented with Brandr, she agrees to accept one suitor her brother brings to her. Brandr acts like no other thrall she's ever met. He his brash and outspoken and so tempting. Soon she can't deny her growing attraction and love towards this man.
When she accepts his hand in marriage, Brandr is freed to return to his home where he finds his clan in rough shape and in desperate need of his help.
When a reader starts a new book, one of 3 three things happen. A. The reader is instantly attracted to the story and the novel turns out to be a great read. B. Great start, lame finish. C. Horrible from start to end. Unfortunately this book was the latter. This is the first book I've read from this author and after this stinker, I'm unlikely to seek out another. This book was empty. In plot, in characterization and in chemistry. The characters fucked...a lot. Yet I didn't read any passion between them. That paired with the dull and lifeless hero and heroine, I found this book a struggle to finish. The subplot of the hero having paranormal powers honestly had so little to do with the overall story, I forgot about it until it came into play towards the end of the book.
I don't recommend this book.
slave. His friends offer to help him break free but he refuses. He offers his mistress instead his vow to remain by her side.
Katia has held the clan together the best she could after the death of her husband yet her brothers insist on sending her suitors for her hand in marriage. None of them appeal yet when she is presented with Brandr, she agrees to accept one suitor her brother brings to her. Brandr acts like no other thrall she's ever met. He his brash and outspoken and so tempting. Soon she can't deny her growing attraction and love towards this man.
When she accepts his hand in marriage, Brandr is freed to return to his home where he finds his clan in rough shape and in desperate need of his help.
When a reader starts a new book, one of 3 three things happen. A. The reader is instantly attracted to the story and the novel turns out to be a great read. B. Great start, lame finish. C. Horrible from start to end. Unfortunately this book was the latter. This is the first book I've read from this author and after this stinker, I'm unlikely to seek out another. This book was empty. In plot, in characterization and in chemistry. The characters fucked...a lot. Yet I didn't read any passion between them. That paired with the dull and lifeless hero and heroine, I found this book a struggle to finish. The subplot of the hero having paranormal powers honestly had so little to do with the overall story, I forgot about it until it came into play towards the end of the book.
I don't recommend this book.
June 27, 2012
After having read several books by these authors I was a bit disappointed in this one. I found it just a bit slow even though it did have a nice story line.
Katla the Black is a widow and the leader of her people. Since her husband died she is not in any hurry to look for another since she would lose all everything she has worked so hard for. A dark haired beauty who is respected by her people for her wisdom and fair justice while keeping them all safe and sound, well feed and hard working. But now her brother's think she should marry but will she or could she give up what she loves more than anything else. Freedom!
Brandr the Far-Traveled is the son of a karl and a brave warrior who has been off fighting wars for the the safety of the world as they know it. Strong, honorable, fierce and much to good looking for his own good. His week point however is a good woman in his bed to satisfy the itch that is constantly plagueing him. Will this be his undoing or will he out smart even the most ruthless of characters?
The story is set on a small island with Katla and her people while introducing Brandr to a fate he never expected. A bit slow in the storyline but one that is at least more that the slam, bam, thank you mam that is out there. There are some nice steamy hawt scenes that help make up for the pace of the book and will make you sizzle with envy. I wish there had been a bit more to this book but it was still a good read.
Katla the Black is a widow and the leader of her people. Since her husband died she is not in any hurry to look for another since she would lose all everything she has worked so hard for. A dark haired beauty who is respected by her people for her wisdom and fair justice while keeping them all safe and sound, well feed and hard working. But now her brother's think she should marry but will she or could she give up what she loves more than anything else. Freedom!
Brandr the Far-Traveled is the son of a karl and a brave warrior who has been off fighting wars for the the safety of the world as they know it. Strong, honorable, fierce and much to good looking for his own good. His week point however is a good woman in his bed to satisfy the itch that is constantly plagueing him. Will this be his undoing or will he out smart even the most ruthless of characters?
The story is set on a small island with Katla and her people while introducing Brandr to a fate he never expected. A bit slow in the storyline but one that is at least more that the slam, bam, thank you mam that is out there. There are some nice steamy hawt scenes that help make up for the pace of the book and will make you sizzle with envy. I wish there had been a bit more to this book but it was still a good read.
March 17, 2013
This is the first book I’ve read that was co-written by Mia Marlowe and Connie Mason, and I really enjoyed the story. They write together extremely well, I cannot tell which parts were written by either author. It kept my interest so well that I cannot wait to read another co-written story by these joint authors.
Brandr the Far-Traveled has been to many places in the world and has had his fair share of women. But never in his life would he expect to be tricked into anything that would cause him to wear an iron collar, let alone be someone’s slave. He does not intend to wear the collar long, no matter what it takes.
Katla the Black has definitely earned her name. She does not show her emotions to anyone for fear that the people that she is responsible for will lose their faith in her. To refuse the gift of a slave she accepts the gift of Brandr, even though she doesn’t want him. She decides that she’ll make him work and avoid him at all costs.
Brandr will do everything Katla requires of him in hopes of being released from his slavery, but he’s also decided to make her care for him enough that he will want to let him go. How hard can it be to make her have feelings for him, and walk away when he’s done? What Brandr doesn’t realize is that things never go as planned.
Brandr the Far-Traveled has been to many places in the world and has had his fair share of women. But never in his life would he expect to be tricked into anything that would cause him to wear an iron collar, let alone be someone’s slave. He does not intend to wear the collar long, no matter what it takes.
Katla the Black has definitely earned her name. She does not show her emotions to anyone for fear that the people that she is responsible for will lose their faith in her. To refuse the gift of a slave she accepts the gift of Brandr, even though she doesn’t want him. She decides that she’ll make him work and avoid him at all costs.
Brandr will do everything Katla requires of him in hopes of being released from his slavery, but he’s also decided to make her care for him enough that he will want to let him go. How hard can it be to make her have feelings for him, and walk away when he’s done? What Brandr doesn’t realize is that things never go as planned.
October 16, 2012
I really enjoyed Sins of the Highlander by the same authors so I was: why not try this one? At first the cover didn't really blow my mind and my first reaction wasn't to go get this book and buy it right away! I won this book on another book blog and took my time before starting it. Well this story totally surprised me! I was drowning into the plot right away! The characters are funny and the story is well built. I loved Katla's strong personality and Brandr was a great seducer and left me wanting more! Their story was sweet and lovely, I was charmed at the first chapter! I also liked the fact that it was Viking style; I'm so use to read about highlanders and Celtic gods. At first I didn't realise it was more from the north until I observe the little Viking boat on the cover! Yes: Viking style with their language and gods, with a great little touch of paranormal element, which was also refreshing!
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December 4, 2014
I really enjoyed this steamy historical. The love scenes with Brandr and Katla are nice and steamy!
I thought it was interesting to read about a man enslaved by a woman, and the Norse people and their mythology. I liked the touch of paranormal in this book. Normally, I don't go for paranormal stories, but this included just a "touch" of Brandr's ability to make and control fires. The setting descriptions were very realistic, I could picture the ships, the longhouse, and the bath house.
The action flowed nicely; and I also liked the secondary characters.
Some lines I just loved:
"If you were any sweeter, I'd die of wanting you," he whispered before he kissed her cheek.
"You consume me, Katla, and I don't care a whit. Let the fire burn."
I also have Connie & Mia's "Sins of the Highlander" on my TBR list.
I thought it was interesting to read about a man enslaved by a woman, and the Norse people and their mythology. I liked the touch of paranormal in this book. Normally, I don't go for paranormal stories, but this included just a "touch" of Brandr's ability to make and control fires. The setting descriptions were very realistic, I could picture the ships, the longhouse, and the bath house.
The action flowed nicely; and I also liked the secondary characters.
Some lines I just loved:
"If you were any sweeter, I'd die of wanting you," he whispered before he kissed her cheek.
"You consume me, Katla, and I don't care a whit. Let the fire burn."
I also have Connie & Mia's "Sins of the Highlander" on my TBR list.
July 16, 2012
Connie Mason's Lord of Fire and Ice was an entertaining read filled with plenty of steamy scenes. I am new to the Connie Mason scene, but I really enjoyed this particular story. Vikings are my favorite! Brandr wasn't really your stereotypical viking and I thought it was great that Mason kind of steered clear of that, but fear not, he did have some great viking qualities that readers definitely crave for in a love interest. The chemistry between Katla and Brandr was fantastic and almost seemed instant between them. Although there was some history between their families it seemed that the attraction was still undeniable and it made for some very saucy scenes. Overall, I definitely think Mason did a great job bringing to life the history, setting and the Norse Mythology throughout the story. I would definitely recommend this one for all you hopeless viking romantics! ;)
October 21, 2012
I read this book and was entertained by a sexy viking man. Brandr the Far-Traveled was captured by men and made a thrall because of retribution for killing their leader during a battle. He was delivered to the leader's widow named Katla the Black. She made Brandr wear a slave collar to identify him. Katla didn't expect the beautiful, naked man to get under her skin. Brandr did what he was told even bedding his mistress in the bargain. As they got to know each other, Brandr being a man of honor, didn't expect to fall in love with the beautiful widow. Katla had issues with men in general, and tried to keep her feelings to herself. You will have to read and find out if they have their happy ever after. I received this book from Mia Marlowe during a contest she held.
May 31, 2015
I would give the is 3.5 stars if that was possible, because it missed a 4 by a fraction. I really liked the references to Viking life. After watching Vikings on the History channel, I found that I understood it more than I might have. The romance was fun and enjoyable, tense and exciting. The Fire Mage addition was little used for most of the book and seemed like a add on. The book could have been done well without that detail at all. Then the ending seemed rushed.
February 9, 2013
Actually somewhere between 3.5 and 4.0 stars. Much better than I expected from the cheesy cover. More historical romance and less paranormal. Strong female character, sexy Viking warrior, intriguing premise, easy to read action. The only thing that keeps it from being a stronger read is that it doesn't quite know what it is. But I thoroughly enjoyed it.
July 18, 2012
3.25 stars/3.25 sensuality. full review to come soon.
July 22, 2014
Not a bad book. The heroine, Katla, did some stupid things. Our hero, Brandr, was a sassy dude. The end seemed a bit rushed. But it wasn't a bad read :)
July 18, 2012
Pretty good book. I enjoyed the great adventure.
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