Taming the Wolf

The Noble Norsemen #1

by Virginie Marconato

Merewen of Ashwick awakes tied to a post at a slave market with no recollection of how she ended up there. Struck by her beauty and spirit, Wolf, an Icelander exiled for a crime he did not commit, feels pity and buys her.

The attraction between them sizzles – and neither knows how to deal with it. Ashamed by her fascination towards a man who purchased her, Merewen fights her attraction, determined not tofall for him.

Wolf senses this fiery woman might well be the one who will allow him to put the pain of his past behind him. And so, knowing he cannot keep her as a slave, he asks her to be his wife.

Merewen refuses his offer. But living next to her reluctant champion makes it difficult to hold on to her resolve…

Genres: Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Fantasy, Historical

248 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 21, 2023

About the author

I think I became a writer the day I decided to write a (very bad, shamefully close to the real story) version of White Fang when aged nine or ten! As for the Middle Ages I fell in love with it at school during a history lesson, then Kevin Costner’s Robin Hood put its final seal on it all. A girl of twelve then, I never recovered!

Reviews

[Izzah ꒰Duchess of Cabria ಇ ⭑✧ ᴏɴ ᴘᴀᴛʀᴇᴏɴ ✧ ⋆꒱]

Another heroine with zero self-preservation

You wake up tied to a post, in a shift, your head covered. People around you are speaking a foreign language. Suddenly, your cover is taken off and your shift ripped, leaving your breasts exposed. Groggy from being drugged, you still have enough wits to realize you've been sold as a slave to a man "twice your size" and "strong as an ox". What do you do?

① Cry and scream
② Try to run
③ Keep your head low and assess your situation
④ Snap and jeer at your "owner"
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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[Rainelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taming the Wolf. My fellow readers the Norsemen has me panting heavily. One in particular, Wolf you naughty boy you. Ladies the man is described so well in this book. It’s like the words melted like butter. Except you have to stretch out the word butter and that’s how feels. The man had my girly bits all tingly while I was reading the book. The male leading character Wolf is a whole lot of man every woman would love to have protecting her. Merewen you are a lucky, lucky lady. These two characters are magnificent in this love story.
The writer did a spectacular job with the plot. I was very much engaged in the story and the characters. The plot was very interesting. The plot held mystery, suspense, romance, and entertainment. I thought the whole book was exciting from beginning to end.
I simply loved this story. Again I say that if the story reads like a movie in my mind, then the book has some excellent writing. I have to say that, “ Taming the Wolf” is a very good book to read. It’s the love that Merewen and Wolf had for one another that bind the two together at first sight. I loved how their story was told.
Wolf love and honor to protect Merewen is the best part of their love story besides the intense sexual desire between the two. These two characters grew the most and learned the most from their journey. For me this book was very easy to sit back and enjoy reading. I give this book two snaps and a, “Olaf and Alaric, if I were you. I would jump on the first boat back to Iceland.
For the Wolf is on the hunt for his prey.” Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Stella Grae · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet hot romance with a feisty female

If taming a wild animal seems next to impossible, then you need to read Taming the Wolf to see how a virginal young woman brings a fierce Norseman to his knees! Virginie Marconato’s novel is a sweet-hot story of the exiled Norseman Wolf and his adventure into love with a girl who appears to be nothing more than a trifle he bought. However, the love (and lust!) that blossoms between them is nothing short of white hot.

This isn’t my typical read, but from the first few pages, I was hooked, and hooked precisely because Marconato’s writing is so very, very good, and she has wrapped the love story of the feisty Merewen and Wolf together with a little mystery alluding to Wolf’s past, plus a few extra plot twists that added tension to the story. I loved the banter between Merewena and Wolf, and the genuine care/love that developed between the two. Marconato does a solid on building the heat, too. Although it’s not explicit, it is enough to keep a reader engaged and wondering when the two are going to do the deed—indeed when they finally get to it, it’s all stars and Northern Lights for the characters and the readers. And while I won’t reveal the ending, I will reveal that I thought it was perfect!

If you love a sweet erotic romance, Taming the Wolf should be your next read!

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Taming the Wolf tries too hard to be politically correct. Wolf is a widower, and his first wife was timid and boring. He purchases Merewen from a slave trader to keep her from further maltreatment.

The characters spend most of their time in their own thoughts while lusting after each other. I honestly skimmed a lot of the angst and self-doubt described in excruciating detail throughout the book. Wolf is unrealistically focused on protecting all women. His behavior toward Merewen is unfailingly kind, even when she is rude to him.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

So loved this hero!

Give me those hulking, protective, cinnamon roll sweeties. Wolf is such a
delicious book boyfriend and a fabulous hero. He made me gooey. If you are in the mood for a viking romance filled with longing, give this book a read

[Alicia Gustafson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to start by saying, what a beautiful read. It was not too breezy, but also not too heavy. Romance is not my typical read, but I was pulled in by the end of the first chapter. The attraction and relationship building between Merewen and Wolf is perfectly executed. There is plenty of self doubt and angst especially from Merewen. Wolf stands true to his word of protection and my admiration for him just built more and more. I loved the perplexity of Wolf’s past and how it affects his character building in the present. Let’s not forget the spice. While it is not explicit, the spicy scenes are hot!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. If you are looking for a sweet Viking romance, this book is for you.

[Orozcosl · Rating 5 out of 5]

A New Series!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters kept me reading " one more chapter! ". The plot involved a very nice change of setting, and the descriptions were quite good!

[Aishwarya✨️ chronicleofreads · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.7

[Suzy Vero]

I tried for over an hour to get into this story but couldn’t. Skimmed read. There is way too much internal monologue by the MCs.., I thought the story slow. . Just not my cup of tea.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

couldn’t put it down!!!

Great book - you never know what is going to happen next - read it and find out now
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[Nicole alphAbet · Rating 1 out of 5]

This books moves straight to lust, and that isn’t romance to me. Moving on.

[Kate W · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was one I couldn't put down it was a great read. The development of the characters between attraction, miss understandings, interruptions, and connection with an extremely happy ending had me page turning. The sexual intimacy scenes were really well written. Can't wait for the next book in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jennifer Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this medieval Viking romance between Merewen, a young woman offered for sale at a slave market, and Wolf, an Icelander exiled for a crime he did not commit.

The chemistry between the two main characters is electric, but each tries to deny a passion they cannot resist.

Slow burn romance, with lots of angst and a satisfying, happy ending.

Sure to please lovers of Viking medieval historical romance!

[BooksBrewsReviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is very steamy and sweet. There is tension and attraction between the main characters from page one. The story focuses on their relationship and the characters. Merewen is a strong and independent woman and Wolf is disarmingly charming. A good read if you like sweet and spicy romance with a Viking flair.

[Cherie S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mystery, Dreams, Intriguing Characters:
My first time reading anything by this author, and I found in the beginning she writes with a very descriptive and prolific flare.
The beginning of the story has Wolf purchasing Merewen, a slave girl from the village auction. From there we find two people trying to come together in a slow building romance and that both are dealing with their past, their thoughts and are unsure about their future.
Many catastrophes, several dreams, a back-and-forth battle between their own emotional thinking that eventually have them finding and trusting in the love they both share.
The hidden mystery of why and who throughout the story does get solved in a way I did not see coming.
A happy epilogue for a most unique story with equally unique characters.
✔Mature Advisory
✔4.5 Rounded up to 5 Star
✔I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest thoughts and opinion.
✔Cover gave me a glimpse of Wolf who is a very wonderful character that is the star of this story.

[Deborah Durand · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s interesting to see that the author’s love of “White Fang” is channeled into the MMC’s name…Wolf. Being falsely accused of murder, the Icelander has been driven from his homeland and has become a protector of a nearby village when he spots a beauty being sold at auction. This is how their relationship begins…each unsure what they mean to the other. The more time that Wolf and Merewen spend together, the more they realize they need the other, and become aware of the problems and dangers threatening the security of their relationship. The plot is interesting as are the MC’s. What drove me mad, were the constant interruptions when the couple was about to consummate their marriage. There were simply too many!
I am interested in reading the next in the series.
I have received an ARC from Booksprout and I am leaving an unbiased review voluntarily.

[Debbie S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Medieval times weren’t all about the fighting
Virginie again has given us a view into the daily life of Saxons and Danes living side by side and what that might look like.
A Dane – who through all of his actions is revered by his community – rescues a girl at auction by buying her as a slave.
Understandably, she does not trust men. But he is able to win her trust and save her from a fellow Saxon when needed, earning her love and their HEA.
I loved his combination of strength and brokenness (he’s dealing with his own past), and her attraction to him despite herself. And the element of mystery / threat to her and the village is seamlessly integrated.
Another excellent read from this author!

[Amber Daulton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Viking romances but don’t read them often, so I was thrilled to snag a copy of Virginie Marconato’s newest book. It’s book one in the Noble Norseman series, and man, I don’t think I’ve ever read a Viking book with such an honorable, decent hero. Although Wolf buys his heroine, Merewen, at a slave market, he’s not a pillaging brute. He ends up saving her from what was sure to be a lifetime of abuse. Wolf and Merewen were great together. They’ve both experienced pain and trauma, and though miscommunication and self-doubt often divided them, their desire and obvious need for each other kept pulling them back together.
For readers who love hot Viking romance with a strong heroine and honorable hero, Taming the Wolf is for you.
5 Stars

[Kelly Lachmund · Rating 3 out of 5]

The interruption trope is not one of my favorite tropes, but I have seen it done very well in books (and fanfiction, to be honest) that are much longer than this book.

It felt like almost every important moment between the two mc's was being interrupted and I felt it was unnecessary after the first time considering all the other plot lines woven into this story.
I ended up skimming the end because I was just getting too annoyed.

Over three times in less than 250 pages? Nah fam, nah.

I am however intrigued by this world the author has created (plus, I'm just a sucker for Norsemen, ngl) and will at least continue with Sigurd's story.

[Sawah Danniels · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet and spicy, the main characters definitely experience tension between themselves from the start. The book does a good job of exploring the inner conflict for both characters. I would say the story gives a Jane M Aul/Diana Gabaldon vibes and is a steady plot, though the reader enters the world abruptly on page 1, amplifying Merewens confusion and state of character.

The perfect read if youre looking for something shorter and mildly spicy with historical vibes.

Caution note - does deal with themes of sexual violence and dubious consent but not in inherently graphic ways.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book in the Noble Norsemen series, by a new Author to me. I want to read more by her. Merewen of Ashwick and Wolf, an Icelander's story is well written with a very good storyline that flows smoothly across the pages and held my interest. I found the story to be well worth reading. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[laura smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first read from this author...

I loved this book! Sexual attraction and tension from the very first pages 🔥🔥🔥🔥 I really enjoyed the banter between Wolf and Merewen. And Merewen is such a strong, brave female character, which I love to read about! I'm looking forward to the next book!😍📚

[Rhonda Bobbitt · Rating 4 out of 5]

4☆☆☆☆
Meriden and Wolf's story is a perfect little love story. This definitely has a little 🌶🌶. A strong female lead with a hunky Norse Viking, a perfect blend for a good romance. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series.

[Niki Konschuh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this book. Read in one day. Mystery of who and why . The build up of Spicey scenes! Laughed a few times. Descriptions of characters is great. A must read!

[mags ♡⋆｡˚❀ · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF riddled with spelling and grammar errors.

[Erin · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 🌟

So much self-doubt and miscommunication that i ended up skipping pages bc its mostly their internal monologues about how they read into everything the other characters do.

Also felt a bit too modern with language usage and phrasing.