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Lilla And The Viking
*Please read the trigger warnings in the front matter, as this is an explicit and at times violent book that some readers may find distressing.*
859 AD – Nekor, Morocco
They call them the fire worshippers. Northmen. Vikings.
Landing upon the beachy Moroccan shores of the city of Nekor, they came to tear our world asunder. Pillaging all in their wake, taking captives…leaving naught unturned.
And my world? Trapped and tortured within a harem after being sold into captivity by my siblings, far away from my home in the Sahara, I had relinquished myself to a grim fate.
Then came Joran, the berserker and skald. Tearing through the door -into my life- with an axe.
At first, I consider him my protector. Without him, I would truly have been undone. Rendered another cowed harem concubine, mutilated into compliance.
Joran. Rescuer. Warrior. Fellow bard.
He may not have the purest of intentions…
…But then, nor do I.
Yet with each moment I spend with him, the more I discover; he is not the best amongst his men.
He is the very worst. Wherever he treads, blood will out.
And now that he has found me? No matter how far I run, he never intends to let me go.
Yet if prey is inclined to stumble, however may it flee the wolf?
Author This steamy, historical dark romance book -with a touch of humor- is loosely based on the Vikings invasion of Nekor, Morocco in 859 AD. The book is written in dual POV, first person.
This book is a standalone, but future spin-offs are planned.
859 AD – Nekor, Morocco
They call them the fire worshippers. Northmen. Vikings.
Landing upon the beachy Moroccan shores of the city of Nekor, they came to tear our world asunder. Pillaging all in their wake, taking captives…leaving naught unturned.
And my world? Trapped and tortured within a harem after being sold into captivity by my siblings, far away from my home in the Sahara, I had relinquished myself to a grim fate.
Then came Joran, the berserker and skald. Tearing through the door -into my life- with an axe.
At first, I consider him my protector. Without him, I would truly have been undone. Rendered another cowed harem concubine, mutilated into compliance.
Joran. Rescuer. Warrior. Fellow bard.
He may not have the purest of intentions…
…But then, nor do I.
Yet with each moment I spend with him, the more I discover; he is not the best amongst his men.
He is the very worst. Wherever he treads, blood will out.
And now that he has found me? No matter how far I run, he never intends to let me go.
Yet if prey is inclined to stumble, however may it flee the wolf?
Author This steamy, historical dark romance book -with a touch of humor- is loosely based on the Vikings invasion of Nekor, Morocco in 859 AD. The book is written in dual POV, first person.
This book is a standalone, but future spin-offs are planned.
602 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 27, 2024
358 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
March 10, 2025
Let's get into this review because there is MUCH I have to say! MUCH!! (Will break up the monotony of words with gifs)
The story was such a refreshing take on the Viking romance lore for me. Maybe I should read more dark Viking romances? Perhaps I'll have a go at them to see if they're all good or if this author won me over. Either way, I really enjoyed it.
Immediately we are introduced to Lilla and her clan because they are celebrating her aunt's wedding where Lilla and her siblings -who so clearly hate her- are playing music. Lilla's a good singer, dancer and plays the imzad. What can't our girl do? (Have faith in her man, but I'm jumping the gun, so let's just appreciate our girls' talents.)
I loved being immersed in the culture of the Imuhagh people, however briefly we got it because of the time Lilla spent with them. In the short time we spent with them, the author really did a phenomenal job of immersing readers in the scene. Based on the descriptions, I could clearly picture the desert with the tents and celebrations. The writing was good. I also could feel the animosity of the siblings and Lilla's yearning to be accepted and the need to belong.
I read some of the reviews and I saw some of the complaints that other readers had about Lilla being naive and having to be rescued by Joran, but of course, she was going to be naive. She lived a sheltered, yet isolated life. Her father was a slave and her mother was a noble who wanted to protect her. She has never endured hardship outside of the semi-ostracisation from her clan. Then after her talents at singing and playing the imzad grew, she became revered and loved in her village. Sure, it was messed up, but it was what she wanted. Love and acceptance. How can you expect a GIRL- and yes, I said GIRL, because it is important to emphasise that she was not a woman hardened by time and experience. She wanted love and acceptance. Multiple times she tempered down her instincts to push through because she thought she was finally getting that from her siblings. She acknowledged to herself that she felt odd, but wanted to push through because this was the only time they got together as a family and she wanted to finally get along with them. Also, if you don't like character growth and development, please just say that. Characters need room to make mistakes so they can learn and become one worth rooting for and love.
After we have Joran enter the scene in that purely chaotic way that we will eventually learn is his signature, we get the build-up to one of the most SATISFYING vengeance scenes I have EVER read in a book. I know it doesn't occur for some time - (the banquet scene), but, oh my days, I loved it. Tayyib. That's it. That is all. Tayyib.
I know what you're thinking, 'He did too much.' 'He could have stopped' 'Tayyib was a victim.' But I'm going to stop you right there. Far too many times, characters let the villains go unpunished because of this misguided 'I'm different from you. I forgive you.' I have always hated it and to see this scene was so beautiful for ALL the women he caused harm to. It was poetic and I loved Joran even more.
Let's talk about Joran, because when I say I want a man is an absolute monster but becomes a teddy bear for me and ONLY me-THIS is what I mean! OK!!!! What an absolutely delicious monster! Willing to relieve heads from shoulders for the sake of the love of his life. That had me swooning. Don't judge me- you read this book too and you liked it. Admit it.
This lovable monster became an utter mush pile when he was with Lilla and I loved it. I loved that he fell first and fought so hard to keep her by his side. The teasing dance they did before consummating the relationship. deep inhales and then we had the actual scene and I was so ... disgusted.
'Twas most perplexing how all these spicy scenes with them teasing each other was so great and then the big moment hurt me to my core. I kept screaming - 'The mud! The mud!' and 'Not you using your muddy fingernails to touch her there!!' and 'Yeast infection! Yeast infection!' and finally, 'You're gonna get sick in this downpour.'
*sighhhhhh* Of course, the spicy scenes went back to being on a level that neither makes one cold nor court the danger that is a yeast infection, but the stain of the first one was almost too much to be wiped away. Almost.
I liked that nothing was gritted over and the hobbies of both MCs remained and didn't feel forced into the plot. They both sang and played their instruments and enjoyed it. We saw everyday life, or a glimpse of it- with the Vikings and how they treat their captives. Lilla was the exception and I love how it wasn't glamorised to make us like them or even Joran. It was made evident to readers that Lilla was being treated slightly better because of the protection of Joran and she knew it too. She didn't feel comfortable being in a place where her people were captives and where she was surrounded by men who would sooner pounce on her the moment Joran was not in sight. So her wanting to constantly make an attempt at her freedom is believable. Who would really sit and be comfortable being a thrall for the rest of their lives?
Loved that the side characters actually influenced and progressed the plot. Hello!!! And there are some stories that I cannot wait to see how their stories turn out. Looking at you Darius and Fatima, Lamine and Safiya and the clear triangle between Zafu, Erland, and Alrik. Let's be honest, we all know Alrik is an a$$, so it's Erland. Cannot wait to see how that plays out.
Also anticipating what we see become of Bjork and Hastein and the rest of their crew because Hastein, I hope your end is bitter!!!
While I really enjoyed the book, I contemplated giving it 4 and 5 stars because it started dragging (trying not to let my review do the same), and at certain points, I was making the circle motion like, 'wrap this up. It is going too long.' Ultimately, I gave it 5 because it had fleshed-out MCs and side characters, it wrapped up loose ends in realistic and nonforced ways that were properly foreshadowed earlier in the story (looking at you Hastein) and the comedic moments made me guffawed.
I'm sorry, but they can never make me hate, 'Lilla And The Viking: Steamy Viking Dark Historical Romance.'
Eagerly anticipating the other stories, Isabella!!! Don't make me wait too long!!!
The story was such a refreshing take on the Viking romance lore for me. Maybe I should read more dark Viking romances? Perhaps I'll have a go at them to see if they're all good or if this author won me over. Either way, I really enjoyed it.
Immediately we are introduced to Lilla and her clan because they are celebrating her aunt's wedding where Lilla and her siblings -who so clearly hate her- are playing music. Lilla's a good singer, dancer and plays the imzad. What can't our girl do? (Have faith in her man, but I'm jumping the gun, so let's just appreciate our girls' talents.)
I loved being immersed in the culture of the Imuhagh people, however briefly we got it because of the time Lilla spent with them. In the short time we spent with them, the author really did a phenomenal job of immersing readers in the scene. Based on the descriptions, I could clearly picture the desert with the tents and celebrations. The writing was good. I also could feel the animosity of the siblings and Lilla's yearning to be accepted and the need to belong.
I read some of the reviews and I saw some of the complaints that other readers had about Lilla being naive and having to be rescued by Joran, but of course, she was going to be naive. She lived a sheltered, yet isolated life. Her father was a slave and her mother was a noble who wanted to protect her. She has never endured hardship outside of the semi-ostracisation from her clan. Then after her talents at singing and playing the imzad grew, she became revered and loved in her village. Sure, it was messed up, but it was what she wanted. Love and acceptance. How can you expect a GIRL- and yes, I said GIRL, because it is important to emphasise that she was not a woman hardened by time and experience. She wanted love and acceptance. Multiple times she tempered down her instincts to push through because she thought she was finally getting that from her siblings. She acknowledged to herself that she felt odd, but wanted to push through because this was the only time they got together as a family and she wanted to finally get along with them. Also, if you don't like character growth and development, please just say that. Characters need room to make mistakes so they can learn and become one worth rooting for and love.
After we have Joran enter the scene in that purely chaotic way that we will eventually learn is his signature, we get the build-up to one of the most SATISFYING vengeance scenes I have EVER read in a book. I know it doesn't occur for some time - (the banquet scene), but, oh my days, I loved it. Tayyib. That's it. That is all. Tayyib.
I know what you're thinking, 'He did too much.' 'He could have stopped' 'Tayyib was a victim.' But I'm going to stop you right there. Far too many times, characters let the villains go unpunished because of this misguided 'I'm different from you. I forgive you.' I have always hated it and to see this scene was so beautiful for ALL the women he caused harm to. It was poetic and I loved Joran even more.
Let's talk about Joran, because when I say I want a man is an absolute monster but becomes a teddy bear for me and ONLY me-THIS is what I mean! OK!!!! What an absolutely delicious monster! Willing to relieve heads from shoulders for the sake of the love of his life. That had me swooning. Don't judge me- you read this book too and you liked it. Admit it.
This lovable monster became an utter mush pile when he was with Lilla and I loved it. I loved that he fell first and fought so hard to keep her by his side. The teasing dance they did before consummating the relationship. deep inhales and then we had the actual scene and I was so ... disgusted.
'Twas most perplexing how all these spicy scenes with them teasing each other was so great and then the big moment hurt me to my core. I kept screaming - 'The mud! The mud!' and 'Not you using your muddy fingernails to touch her there!!' and 'Yeast infection! Yeast infection!' and finally, 'You're gonna get sick in this downpour.'
*sighhhhhh* Of course, the spicy scenes went back to being on a level that neither makes one cold nor court the danger that is a yeast infection, but the stain of the first one was almost too much to be wiped away. Almost.
I liked that nothing was gritted over and the hobbies of both MCs remained and didn't feel forced into the plot. They both sang and played their instruments and enjoyed it. We saw everyday life, or a glimpse of it- with the Vikings and how they treat their captives. Lilla was the exception and I love how it wasn't glamorised to make us like them or even Joran. It was made evident to readers that Lilla was being treated slightly better because of the protection of Joran and she knew it too. She didn't feel comfortable being in a place where her people were captives and where she was surrounded by men who would sooner pounce on her the moment Joran was not in sight. So her wanting to constantly make an attempt at her freedom is believable. Who would really sit and be comfortable being a thrall for the rest of their lives?
Loved that the side characters actually influenced and progressed the plot. Hello!!! And there are some stories that I cannot wait to see how their stories turn out. Looking at you Darius and Fatima, Lamine and Safiya and the clear triangle between Zafu, Erland, and Alrik. Let's be honest, we all know Alrik is an a$$, so it's Erland. Cannot wait to see how that plays out.
Also anticipating what we see become of Bjork and Hastein and the rest of their crew because Hastein, I hope your end is bitter!!!
While I really enjoyed the book, I contemplated giving it 4 and 5 stars because it started dragging (trying not to let my review do the same), and at certain points, I was making the circle motion like, 'wrap this up. It is going too long.' Ultimately, I gave it 5 because it had fleshed-out MCs and side characters, it wrapped up loose ends in realistic and nonforced ways that were properly foreshadowed earlier in the story (looking at you Hastein) and the comedic moments made me guffawed.
I'm sorry, but they can never make me hate, 'Lilla And The Viking: Steamy Viking Dark Historical Romance.'
Eagerly anticipating the other stories, Isabella!!! Don't make me wait too long!!!
December 7, 2024
DNF @ 41%.
I couldn't get into the story. It was overlong for no reason and really nothing at all was happening after the first 50 pages or so. The FMC was ridiculous and was constantly saying she hated the MMC but would immediately sleep with him. The MMC was just boring and uninteresting.
I hate the miscommunication trope and I lump 'we don't speak each other's languages' into that trope. At this point, which is nearly half way through the book, they still haven't been able to really talk or get to know one another, nothing beyond simple statements with a guy as translator. Which means, the book is all observations and inner dialogue....it's impossible for the MCs to get close in a romance book in this way. All they do is say things to each other that neither understands and then have sex.
I couldn't get into the story. It was overlong for no reason and really nothing at all was happening after the first 50 pages or so. The FMC was ridiculous and was constantly saying she hated the MMC but would immediately sleep with him. The MMC was just boring and uninteresting.
I hate the miscommunication trope and I lump 'we don't speak each other's languages' into that trope. At this point, which is nearly half way through the book, they still haven't been able to really talk or get to know one another, nothing beyond simple statements with a guy as translator. Which means, the book is all observations and inner dialogue....it's impossible for the MCs to get close in a romance book in this way. All they do is say things to each other that neither understands and then have sex.
January 3, 2025
Tedious Journey
I really wanted to like this book much more than I actually do, which is an unfortunate reality. Lilla’s naivety is the consistent downfall of this book. I have read other 500+ page books before and those other books plot developments are a little more complex and logical for me. I really wanted to see Lilla to step into her womanhood as someone who is fierce and learns to fight, (especially physically) because of her size, but instead she ends up being injured, needing to be rescued, and crying. Overall, I ended up skipping several chapters just to get through the book, but for this simple story, it could have been written in about 300 pages or less.
I really wanted to like this book much more than I actually do, which is an unfortunate reality. Lilla’s naivety is the consistent downfall of this book. I have read other 500+ page books before and those other books plot developments are a little more complex and logical for me. I really wanted to see Lilla to step into her womanhood as someone who is fierce and learns to fight, (especially physically) because of her size, but instead she ends up being injured, needing to be rescued, and crying. Overall, I ended up skipping several chapters just to get through the book, but for this simple story, it could have been written in about 300 pages or less.
January 27, 2025
2.50 Stars. (BW/WM). Kindle Unlimited Edition 602 page e-book.
Setting: 859 AD in Nekor, Morocco.
Trope: Sibling betrayal. Captor/captive. Rescue of a damsel in distress.
Characters:
1. Joran, hero, is a Viking warrior, berserker, skald and landowning bard.
2. Lilla, heroine, is a singer and a woman trying to avoid an arranged marriage .
The theme of the story is interesting and presents a story that is not often told...romance between Vikings and Black women. This story was not well executed in character development or pacing. Lilla convinces her father to allow her to accompany her step brother and sister to go to a near by large town to audition as a singer; however, when they get to the town, her step siblings sell her to human sex traffickers. As Lilla and other women were being acclimated as sex slaves, Joran and a crew of Viking warriors descended on the town killing and pillaging. Joran rescued Lilla and took her to live in his tent. The story went on and on little of interest taking place.
Setting: 859 AD in Nekor, Morocco.
Trope: Sibling betrayal. Captor/captive. Rescue of a damsel in distress.
Characters:
1. Joran, hero, is a Viking warrior, berserker, skald and landowning bard.
2. Lilla, heroine, is a singer and a woman trying to avoid an arranged marriage .
The theme of the story is interesting and presents a story that is not often told...romance between Vikings and Black women. This story was not well executed in character development or pacing. Lilla convinces her father to allow her to accompany her step brother and sister to go to a near by large town to audition as a singer; however, when they get to the town, her step siblings sell her to human sex traffickers. As Lilla and other women were being acclimated as sex slaves, Joran and a crew of Viking warriors descended on the town killing and pillaging. Joran rescued Lilla and took her to live in his tent. The story went on and on little of interest taking place.
April 10, 2025
Yea this book was extra long for no reason. There was one too many adversities for the MCs to overcome. One problem right after the other which was unnecessary imo. Adversity, language barrier, and sex. This could’ve been way better than it was.
June 22, 2025
Interesting
I love Viking romance and though some of this was difficult to stomach, check your content warning(!) I did enjoy it.
I love Viking romance and though some of this was difficult to stomach, check your content warning(!) I did enjoy it.
January 5, 2025
This story was a bit to slow for me. And overly long for what it was. It could have had more substance. Not one for me.
February 15, 2025
Disappointing FMC
Very disappointed in the female lead. Expected more from her in terms of a character arc. Always waiting to be saved , but when actually saved from death she was on grateful.
Very disappointed in the female lead. Expected more from her in terms of a character arc. Always waiting to be saved , but when actually saved from death she was on grateful.
January 6, 2025
I just finished Lilla & The Viking by Isabella Colestone, and I'm coming away with mixed feelings. I'd give it a solid 3 out of 5 stars. There were definitely parts I enjoyed, but some things held it back from being a complete win for me.
First things first, this book is a commitment! It's a pretty long read, and while I was prepared for something substantial, it did feel a bit drawn out at times. The core story is fairly straightforward, and I think it could have been told more concisely.
The story kicks off with Lilla facing some seriously tough times. She's betrayed by her family and basically sold into slavery, which is obviously a pretty heavy start. Then she's rescued by Joran, a Viking berserker. So, you know going in that this isn't going to be a lighthearted romance. There are some dark and intense scenes, which the author does warn about.
I liked the initial setup. Lilla's thrown from one bad situation into another, and even though Joran saves her, he's not exactly your typical knight in shining armor. Their connection is interesting and complex, especially with the cultural differences and Lilla's continued captivity.
One thing that I struggled with was Lilla's character. She's described as naive, and I was really hoping to see her grow and become stronger throughout the story, especially considering everything she goes through. However, she often ends up being rescued and spends a lot of time injured or upset. This pattern became a little repetitive and made it harder for me to fully connect with her.
The pacing also felt slow because some scenes and events were shown from both Lilla and Joran's perspectives, which felt a bit redundant. It made me want to skim ahead at times.
The language used by the characters also contributed to the slower pace. While I appreciate the attempt to create a historical atmosphere, some of the dialogue felt a bit unnatural.
On the positive side, the ending was actually quite touching, and I enjoyed seeing Joran's character develop and change through his interactions with Lilla.
So, overall, Lilla & The Viking has a compelling premise and some interesting elements, but the pacing, Lilla's character arc, and the repetitive storytelling kept me from fully loving it. I'd recommend it to readers who enjoy dark historical romances, are okay with a very slow burn, and don't mind a longer read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
First things first, this book is a commitment! It's a pretty long read, and while I was prepared for something substantial, it did feel a bit drawn out at times. The core story is fairly straightforward, and I think it could have been told more concisely.
The story kicks off with Lilla facing some seriously tough times. She's betrayed by her family and basically sold into slavery, which is obviously a pretty heavy start. Then she's rescued by Joran, a Viking berserker. So, you know going in that this isn't going to be a lighthearted romance. There are some dark and intense scenes, which the author does warn about.
I liked the initial setup. Lilla's thrown from one bad situation into another, and even though Joran saves her, he's not exactly your typical knight in shining armor. Their connection is interesting and complex, especially with the cultural differences and Lilla's continued captivity.
One thing that I struggled with was Lilla's character. She's described as naive, and I was really hoping to see her grow and become stronger throughout the story, especially considering everything she goes through. However, she often ends up being rescued and spends a lot of time injured or upset. This pattern became a little repetitive and made it harder for me to fully connect with her.
The pacing also felt slow because some scenes and events were shown from both Lilla and Joran's perspectives, which felt a bit redundant. It made me want to skim ahead at times.
The language used by the characters also contributed to the slower pace. While I appreciate the attempt to create a historical atmosphere, some of the dialogue felt a bit unnatural.
On the positive side, the ending was actually quite touching, and I enjoyed seeing Joran's character develop and change through his interactions with Lilla.
So, overall, Lilla & The Viking has a compelling premise and some interesting elements, but the pacing, Lilla's character arc, and the repetitive storytelling kept me from fully loving it. I'd recommend it to readers who enjoy dark historical romances, are okay with a very slow burn, and don't mind a longer read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 3, 2025
Thanks I hated it
I have read this general storyline before and had a great time. What’s different here? Everyone sucked.
Lilla was definitely in the “too dumb to live” camp and never learned, even after being literally sold into slavery by her own siblings and tortured and betrayed by the wife of the man who had her tortured. Big shocked Pikachu moment right there.
Meanwhile, Joran was a violent oaf without much going on in that head of his. Some winning descriptions of him?
- “Why can he not see that my existence here is a misery, one rooted in the limbo of being surrounded by people who -if it were not for Joran- would not be adverse to enjoying my mistreatment?”
- “In a village full of broody men who gaze enviously upon my belly, it can be awkward to be with child. But according to Joran it is even harder to be such a man. With this I extremely, strongly disagree.”
Wow what a keeper.
Then we have the painfully long list of side characters, including but not limited too a eunuch who’s not actually a eunuch (but probably my favorite character), an evil Jarl turned Darth Vader “I am your father” who gets no real punishment for some pretty major crimes against humanity… and Joran I guess, a concubine/thrall who refuses several escape attempts for a Viking she doesn’t even like, and an interpreter who is naked half the book and decides to give up and die because his freed thrall didn’t really want to be his friend. Poor baby.
If you enjoy a lot of needless violence, an uninspired romance, main characters who don’t speak the same language until page 400 but rarely use the translators they have on hand (read: don’t communicate), and old-timey spicy words like “cunny,” “quim,” and “hard root,” you’ll have… a time.
I have read this general storyline before and had a great time. What’s different here? Everyone sucked.
Lilla was definitely in the “too dumb to live” camp and never learned, even after being literally sold into slavery by her own siblings and tortured and betrayed by the wife of the man who had her tortured. Big shocked Pikachu moment right there.
Meanwhile, Joran was a violent oaf without much going on in that head of his. Some winning descriptions of him?
- “Why can he not see that my existence here is a misery, one rooted in the limbo of being surrounded by people who -if it were not for Joran- would not be adverse to enjoying my mistreatment?”
- “In a village full of broody men who gaze enviously upon my belly, it can be awkward to be with child. But according to Joran it is even harder to be such a man. With this I extremely, strongly disagree.”
Wow what a keeper.
Then we have the painfully long list of side characters, including but not limited too a eunuch who’s not actually a eunuch (but probably my favorite character), an evil Jarl turned Darth Vader “I am your father” who gets no real punishment for some pretty major crimes against humanity… and Joran I guess, a concubine/thrall who refuses several escape attempts for a Viking she doesn’t even like, and an interpreter who is naked half the book and decides to give up and die because his freed thrall didn’t really want to be his friend. Poor baby.
If you enjoy a lot of needless violence, an uninspired romance, main characters who don’t speak the same language until page 400 but rarely use the translators they have on hand (read: don’t communicate), and old-timey spicy words like “cunny,” “quim,” and “hard root,” you’ll have… a time.
March 9, 2025
Enjoyable
This story is a very unique read and it was not what I expected but it's enjoyable. The characters are captivating and story plot is intriguing but there are some triggers but the chemistry will pull you into this marvelous tale from the beginning to the end. The subject matter of slavery is what makes this a little uncomfortable but along with the way Lilla and Joran chemistry which turns to a lasting love.Then you add in their drama and their chemistry it just won't quit. Wow talk about drama, their chemistry and passion its all packed in this one. This is a lovely and delightful experience but when there is a lot of action and vengeance and some of it is just plain wrong, But you will be surprised how much passion and romance there is. The only wish I have is that the story was just be a tad bit more loving and suspense or something more. But I also want Y'all to know that this author will put a grip on your heart and all I will say is grab a copy get comfortable and dive into this unique story that's Highly Recommend so Happy Reading y'all !!!
This story is a very unique read and it was not what I expected but it's enjoyable. The characters are captivating and story plot is intriguing but there are some triggers but the chemistry will pull you into this marvelous tale from the beginning to the end. The subject matter of slavery is what makes this a little uncomfortable but along with the way Lilla and Joran chemistry which turns to a lasting love.Then you add in their drama and their chemistry it just won't quit. Wow talk about drama, their chemistry and passion its all packed in this one. This is a lovely and delightful experience but when there is a lot of action and vengeance and some of it is just plain wrong, But you will be surprised how much passion and romance there is. The only wish I have is that the story was just be a tad bit more loving and suspense or something more. But I also want Y'all to know that this author will put a grip on your heart and all I will say is grab a copy get comfortable and dive into this unique story that's Highly Recommend so Happy Reading y'all !!!
August 7, 2025
Joran and Lilla
Lilla and Joran both have been deceived throughout their lives. They both are betrothed to another, yet they can't deny their attraction.
Lilla is from a small saharan community. Her sister and brother convinced her to go to the city to perform for an event there. Lilla did not realize or want to accept that her siblings were up to no good.
Joran is a part of a viking crew that is looking for a city to invade. They ended up getting into the city where Lilla was sold by her siblings. Jordan ended up rescuing Lilla from being punished.
They both spoke a different language but were attracted to each other. Their early beginnings were filled with communication issues. They also had an interpreter, but misunderstandings still happened. As their relationship grows, they learn the language of the other, overcome the plots against them and betrayals are revealed.
Lilla and Joran both have been deceived throughout their lives. They both are betrothed to another, yet they can't deny their attraction.
Lilla is from a small saharan community. Her sister and brother convinced her to go to the city to perform for an event there. Lilla did not realize or want to accept that her siblings were up to no good.
Joran is a part of a viking crew that is looking for a city to invade. They ended up getting into the city where Lilla was sold by her siblings. Jordan ended up rescuing Lilla from being punished.
They both spoke a different language but were attracted to each other. Their early beginnings were filled with communication issues. They also had an interpreter, but misunderstandings still happened. As their relationship grows, they learn the language of the other, overcome the plots against them and betrayals are revealed.
December 27, 2024
This is a meaty meaty read! I wanted to review Lilla and the Viking because of how meaty I was hoping it would be and I was right. Lilla and the Viking is not for the faint of heart, Vikings are Vikings and the world it’s set in is brutal and bloody. Lilla thanks the Gods when she’s saved from hell by a handsome Northman but little does she know she’s gone from the pan to the fire. Joran is driven and knows exactly what he wants, he grows as a person as a result of his interactions with Lilla and it was interesting (and frustrating at times!) to see their cultural differences and miscommunications. The ending was so heartwarming and Lilla And The Viking has gone straight into my favourites! I'll be keeping an eye for any new Isabella Colestone.
September 24, 2025
Very good and interesting
The book is long but that is only because it's a full story, like a few episodes of Vikings good. The author took her time to deliver an authentic Viking tale as they interact with the people they conquer and come in contact with from other lands. The story focuses on the relationship between Lilla and Joran. They don't understand each other but somehow communicate and make it work. After a couple of escape attempts and betrayals, the bond between them grows despite all the opposition surrounding them. I enjoyed the more authentic take in this book and enjoyed the development of the romance between Joran and Lilla. Great character growth and development. Very interesting side characters some with their own stories to tell.
The book is long but that is only because it's a full story, like a few episodes of Vikings good. The author took her time to deliver an authentic Viking tale as they interact with the people they conquer and come in contact with from other lands. The story focuses on the relationship between Lilla and Joran. They don't understand each other but somehow communicate and make it work. After a couple of escape attempts and betrayals, the bond between them grows despite all the opposition surrounding them. I enjoyed the more authentic take in this book and enjoyed the development of the romance between Joran and Lilla. Great character growth and development. Very interesting side characters some with their own stories to tell.
October 29, 2025
I liked it. It gave a realistic perspective of what a bwwm dynamic would have looked like realistically in this situation. Yes, I did think to myself, “you a big dummy” regarding the action/behavior of a lot of the characters, but that speaks more to the reality of the characters than the writing itself. I liked that this story didn’t rely on fantasy, that this is a story of obsession and steadfast love.
Admittedly, I don’t have a firm grip on Nordic or Moroccan history, but the environment and reactions seemed reasonable. Of course I wanted to read about a world that is fair and just, but come on. If you can put on your big girl pants and read Beverly Jenkins or Alyssa Cole’s Loyal League, you’re gonna be fine. I can’t wait for what the author does next!
Admittedly, I don’t have a firm grip on Nordic or Moroccan history, but the environment and reactions seemed reasonable. Of course I wanted to read about a world that is fair and just, but come on. If you can put on your big girl pants and read Beverly Jenkins or Alyssa Cole’s Loyal League, you’re gonna be fine. I can’t wait for what the author does next!
December 5, 2024
Betrayed by her beloved siblings, tricked into becoming a harem slave and being tortured by a sadistic eunuch, only to be captured by Viking berserkers, Lilla goes through a hell of a time. But although Joran rescues her from a terrible fate, he is not a hero, violence runs deep in his veins. Despite their differences and the fact that Lilla is once again a slave, Joran and Lilla can't help but have a strong physical and mental connection with each other.
Although this book has a slow start, persist with it, it's a good story.
I received a copy of this book for free and of my own choosing in exchange for an honest review.
Although this book has a slow start, persist with it, it's a good story.
I received a copy of this book for free and of my own choosing in exchange for an honest review.
December 20, 2024
Lilla and Joran are fire and fire. They connect with music and share that love of the art with their natural talents.
I love Joran's restraint and gentleness towards Lilla after she experienced trauma at the hands of the eunuch working for the emir. The two connected quickly as if they knew each other in a past life. Not sharing a common language did little to quell their connection.
However the plot is stagnant for a good portion of the book. We get repeated scenes and occurrences. The book should have been shorter in this case.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love Joran's restraint and gentleness towards Lilla after she experienced trauma at the hands of the eunuch working for the emir. The two connected quickly as if they knew each other in a past life. Not sharing a common language did little to quell their connection.
However the plot is stagnant for a good portion of the book. We get repeated scenes and occurrences. The book should have been shorter in this case.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 8, 2025
unnecessarily long
This book was unnecessarily long. I got exhausted. Honestly if you asked me what is it about? I can’t tell you that all this is it, but there are also so many things happening at the same time. Honestly, I feel like it was just too much. There is the story of love there is the story of The betrayal that is the story of parental issues loss of a parent and there’s just what’s happening. in fact, I lost the train of her journey from which where she came from to how she was kidnapped and then it was just too much happening. Honestly, it was too much happening for me and I absolutely did not like the book because of that there was just too much happening.
This book was unnecessarily long. I got exhausted. Honestly if you asked me what is it about? I can’t tell you that all this is it, but there are also so many things happening at the same time. Honestly, I feel like it was just too much. There is the story of love there is the story of The betrayal that is the story of parental issues loss of a parent and there’s just what’s happening. in fact, I lost the train of her journey from which where she came from to how she was kidnapped and then it was just too much happening. Honestly, it was too much happening for me and I absolutely did not like the book because of that there was just too much happening.
December 8, 2024
2.5 Stars, okay Read, but slow moving at times
This is my first book by this author
The story is decent and the premise is good, based on the historical time period.
What was difficult to get over was the language spoken by the MMC and the MFC, which made it a slower read for me
The story could have been shorter if the scenes or events in the story were not replayed by the POV of the main characters in each chapter
This is just my opinion, but for other readers this would be a great read
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is my first book by this author
The story is decent and the premise is good, based on the historical time period.
What was difficult to get over was the language spoken by the MMC and the MFC, which made it a slower read for me
The story could have been shorter if the scenes or events in the story were not replayed by the POV of the main characters in each chapter
This is just my opinion, but for other readers this would be a great read
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 11, 2025
Did the author time travel
If you love historical romances in which you feel like you are transported to the actual time and places, you will love this book. Lilla is a boss. She did not fall in line with anyone, except maybe being too trusting of her siblings. But everyone, especially Johan (?) got to see that she was a free woman who would not fall into line for no one, even the man she loved. I greatly enjoyed the characters and storyline. This is my second of Mrs Colestone's books I've read. I look forward to many more.
If you love historical romances in which you feel like you are transported to the actual time and places, you will love this book. Lilla is a boss. She did not fall in line with anyone, except maybe being too trusting of her siblings. But everyone, especially Johan (?) got to see that she was a free woman who would not fall into line for no one, even the man she loved. I greatly enjoyed the characters and storyline. This is my second of Mrs Colestone's books I've read. I look forward to many more.
May 19, 2025
I like the story. I loved Joran, he was great everything I needed in a MMC. Lilla was good at times a little annoying to me. She made some bad decision. I found her to be frustrating at times. I don't know maybe I have read to many dark romances. I didn't understand her decision at time. The story was good, it was a little long for my taste. The plot was okay there was a lot going on for me. I found it a little busy and at times a little dragging. This is my first Viking romance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 7, 2024
Smashing!
Quite a surprising treasure.. enjoyed every minute of it.. has a balance of erotica..heroism.. retribution ..romance and treachery... all centered on sweet Lilla..she is a strong sexy innocent lass..who was betrayed by jealousy and envy.. thrusts into servitude as a member of a harem..she survived on instincts and cleverness.. until..she was caged and tortured... then along came her Viking...Joran..and a true love story of loyalty and belief of hope..
Quite a surprising treasure.. enjoyed every minute of it.. has a balance of erotica..heroism.. retribution ..romance and treachery... all centered on sweet Lilla..she is a strong sexy innocent lass..who was betrayed by jealousy and envy.. thrusts into servitude as a member of a harem..she survived on instincts and cleverness.. until..she was caged and tortured... then along came her Viking...Joran..and a true love story of loyalty and belief of hope..
December 31, 2024
A steamy Viking dark historical romance, there are warnings about triggers at the front of the book. The story is set in 859 AD – Nekor, Morocco and is between Joran, the berserker and skald and Lilla a slave he rescues. The story I think could have been shorter is somethings that where repeated where taken out. That is just my opinion. This is a new Author to me. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 11, 2025
There was an attempt
I tried to give this a read but 29 pages in and by the way Lilla was acting so naively especially about her half siblings, I could tell that she wasn’t going to change. And this is solidified by the reviews that she doesn’t develop into something better.
You mean to tell me that she is aware that she’s a bastard child, aware and the way her half siblings treat her, that she didn’t have an
I tried to give this a read but 29 pages in and by the way Lilla was acting so naively especially about her half siblings, I could tell that she wasn’t going to change. And this is solidified by the reviews that she doesn’t develop into something better.
You mean to tell me that she is aware that she’s a bastard child, aware and the way her half siblings treat her, that she didn’t have an
November 16, 2025
dnf at 56% but started skimming at like 47% and just had to give up. bottom line: tstl; she was born free though the child of a slave, sold into s**ual slavery by her siblings, then resigned to be enslaved by the mmc because she liked being intimate with him and doesn’t have enough self respect to stop. FOUL. mind you, all the while she’s black and he’s white. race may not play as much of a role in the book but the author definitely knows how this looks and it’s so icky and gives race play 🤢
December 19, 2024
This was a very interesting and entertaining read! It was well written, had great characters and the storytelling was top notch! It was steamy, sexy and action packed! I’m a first time reader of this author but will definitely be looking forward to reading more of her work!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 2, 2025
I loved reading Lilla and Joran's story. Reading about her torture and trauma was tough to get through, but once you do, it's easy to navigate through her healing and fall in love with the budding relationship between the two leads. I gave it three stars because the book was longer than necessary and there were times when I was tempted to skip through the book.
January 13, 2025
Lilia is definitely a character that grows on you. She is quite naive but sweet. What do you do when your siblings have so much hate for you. How did she not see that. Being sold by them had me reading like what! Oh the things that endure until she meets Joran. That takes sometime but oberall a good story.
January 16, 2025
I wanted to love this book but Lillia is frustrating. It pains me the lack of growth, common sense and wherewithal she has. After so many instances she fails to develop in ways that would keep herself safe. Ugh… I like the writings of the author I hope she takes heed in developing characters because the FMC continued to make mistakes that put her life and safety in danger.
March 10, 2025
This uses the historical romance element that I was hoping for and enjoyed from this type of book. The characters were everything that I was looking for and enjoyed getting into this world and characters. Isabella Colestone has a strong writing style and was glad I got to read this.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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