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Not-So-Savage Barbarians #4
The Barbarian's Claim
I’ve been alone most of my life. No family, no home. No one would care if I disappeared. I wouldn’t survive another year on my own. In a desperate attempt to survive, I volunteered as tribute to the barbarians after hearing they now accepted males. At least if I died, I would have done something good by sparing someone else. But it wasn’t at all what I was expecting. And when my protector abandons me for being unable to speak, I’m left floundering again until someone else steps up to take his place. He’s dangerous and scarred, and people give him a wide berth, but he offers me something I haven’t had since I was a child. Safety. I’d be a fool to walk away now.
165 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 2, 2025
222 people are currently reading
241 people want to read
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October 15, 2025
The Barbarian’s Claim is book four in the Not-So-Savage Barbarians series by Amy Padilla. I love this series. I might even be a little addicted to this clan of Barbarians who are actually loving and caring.
Matthew is twenty years old. I have to admit that his history broke my heart. After a family tragedy, he pretty much lost his ability to speak. He can get a few shaky words out at times but most of the time, he just freezes up. In the town he lived in, he was outcast, barely surviving living on the streets. So once he learned that males were allowed to be tributes, he volunteered. He thought it couldn’t be any worse than the life he was currently leading.
“Was there ever going to be a time when someone wished for me to be there?”
Matthew’s first protector pretty much abandoned him after realizing he didn’t speak. The huge, scarred barbarian, Einar, took him in and it was here that Matthew found patience, caring, and safety. With Einar, he began to feel a bit more confident. But still, he constantly worried that he might do something to displease him and cause him to cast him out.
This was such a fantastic story of finally finding a place to belong where you felt accepted and safe. I love how this clan reveres their tributes above all else. Matthew brought out the best in Einar as well, helping him to also feel more accepted since he was a bit of an outcast himself, by his own choosing. You would never think a story about a clan of barbarians would be sweet and swoony but it is. I can’t wait to read the next book, The Physician’s Barbarian.
Matthew is twenty years old. I have to admit that his history broke my heart. After a family tragedy, he pretty much lost his ability to speak. He can get a few shaky words out at times but most of the time, he just freezes up. In the town he lived in, he was outcast, barely surviving living on the streets. So once he learned that males were allowed to be tributes, he volunteered. He thought it couldn’t be any worse than the life he was currently leading.
“Was there ever going to be a time when someone wished for me to be there?”
Matthew’s first protector pretty much abandoned him after realizing he didn’t speak. The huge, scarred barbarian, Einar, took him in and it was here that Matthew found patience, caring, and safety. With Einar, he began to feel a bit more confident. But still, he constantly worried that he might do something to displease him and cause him to cast him out.
This was such a fantastic story of finally finding a place to belong where you felt accepted and safe. I love how this clan reveres their tributes above all else. Matthew brought out the best in Einar as well, helping him to also feel more accepted since he was a bit of an outcast himself, by his own choosing. You would never think a story about a clan of barbarians would be sweet and swoony but it is. I can’t wait to read the next book, The Physician’s Barbarian.
September 3, 2025
I can't give any of the Barbarians books more than 3 stars because they lack depth, but that doesn't mean I don't enjoy them in the same way I enjoy a frappuccino: as a sweet snack with no nutritional value but quite tasty.
The fourth installment features Matthew, who volunteers as tribute to escape homelessness and ridicule. Matthew is traumatized and selectively mute; he stutters and possibly has a learning disability and auditory processing disorder, but he's resilient and a hard worker.
Einar becomes Matthew's protector by chance. Einar, gruff and antisocial, lives on the outskirts and is not commitment material (why is unclear). He prefers silence, so Matthew's quiet nature is like a balm to his soul.
There's plenty of hurt/comfort here. Also punishment - if you've been jonesing for a beheading, you won't be disappointed.
What else? Hunting/skinning of animals, more bathing in the river, angry barbarians attacking Matthew, other male tributes coming to his aid, etc. Oh, and sex. Obviously.
The fourth installment features Matthew, who volunteers as tribute to escape homelessness and ridicule. Matthew is traumatized and selectively mute; he stutters and possibly has a learning disability and auditory processing disorder, but he's resilient and a hard worker.
Einar becomes Matthew's protector by chance. Einar, gruff and antisocial, lives on the outskirts and is not commitment material (why is unclear). He prefers silence, so Matthew's quiet nature is like a balm to his soul.
There's plenty of hurt/comfort here. Also punishment - if you've been jonesing for a beheading, you won't be disappointed.
What else? Hunting/skinning of animals, more bathing in the river, angry barbarians attacking Matthew, other male tributes coming to his aid, etc. Oh, and sex. Obviously.
December 31, 2025
Matthew + Einar 🖤
Barbarian recluse | Non-verbal MC | Hurt comfort | Age gap
Einar was the clan recluse and Matthew struggled with his speech, so he was non-verbal most of the time. The initial "protector" Matthew was assigned to didn't protect him at all and chose to berate him for his speech issues. Einar never wanted a bondmate. He enjoyed his space and silence. But he couldnt ignore the sweet quiet man who needed protection.
⚠️ potential spoilers below in detailed tropes, content and warning lists
Tropes/content:
Barbarian
Clan recluse
Scarred face
20 year age gap (20 and 40)
Self volunteered tribute
Mostly non verbal MC due to trauma
Stutter
Cave sex
Good boy
Rimming
Cum as lube
Checks his hole to make sure he didn't hurt him
Very quick bonding. Didn't wait for a ceremony.
"This is just protection and sex. I can't offer you love."
Panic attacks
Hurt comfort
Found family
Matthew messed around a bit with a boy when he was in an orphanage but he's never had sex that was pleasurable. Always hurt him. So it's almost like he's experiencing everything for the first time with Einar
Kisses his scar
Mine
Unspoken no kissing rule at first
Touch him and did
Strict roles
Warnings:
Matthew lost his entire family in a house fire
Snake bite
Stab wound and surgery on MC
Barbarian recluse | Non-verbal MC | Hurt comfort | Age gap
Einar was the clan recluse and Matthew struggled with his speech, so he was non-verbal most of the time. The initial "protector" Matthew was assigned to didn't protect him at all and chose to berate him for his speech issues. Einar never wanted a bondmate. He enjoyed his space and silence. But he couldnt ignore the sweet quiet man who needed protection.
⚠️ potential spoilers below in detailed tropes, content and warning lists
Tropes/content:
Barbarian
Clan recluse
Scarred face
20 year age gap (20 and 40)
Self volunteered tribute
Mostly non verbal MC due to trauma
Stutter
Cave sex
Good boy
Rimming
Cum as lube
Checks his hole to make sure he didn't hurt him
Very quick bonding. Didn't wait for a ceremony.
"This is just protection and sex. I can't offer you love."
Panic attacks
Hurt comfort
Found family
Matthew messed around a bit with a boy when he was in an orphanage but he's never had sex that was pleasurable. Always hurt him. So it's almost like he's experiencing everything for the first time with Einar
Kisses his scar
Mine
Unspoken no kissing rule at first
Touch him and did
Strict roles
Warnings:
Matthew lost his entire family in a house fire
Snake bite
Stab wound and surgery on MC
January 23, 2026
3.5⭐️ I don’t know, I guess I’m a sucker for these bite-sized stories about big, feral barbarians with secret hearts of gold. I can’t stop reading them.
September 7, 2025
Late night thoughts
I wholeheartedly believe that Simon was only created to be part of this book and be Matthew’s friend. I really enjoyed this book more than third book. The story did have a happy ending but honestly I felt like there could had been more to tell. Definitely my favorite out of the three.
I wholeheartedly believe that Simon was only created to be part of this book and be Matthew’s friend. I really enjoyed this book more than third book. The story did have a happy ending but honestly I felt like there could had been more to tell. Definitely my favorite out of the three.
August 23, 2025
Homeless and an outcast in his town, Matthew decides to offer himself up as tribute to the barbarians in the hopes that living amongst them would offer him a better life.
Things don’t quite go as planned though, when Matthew’s protector abandons him after learning that he doesn’t speak. Up steps Einar, the clan recluse, who treats Matthew with unexpected kindness.
Despite his rough and gruff exterior, Einar was a total softy for Matthew and it was so stinking adorable! I loved how patient and kind he was with Matthew, and never pressured him to be anything other than himself.
Things don’t quite go as planned though, when Matthew’s protector abandons him after learning that he doesn’t speak. Up steps Einar, the clan recluse, who treats Matthew with unexpected kindness.
Despite his rough and gruff exterior, Einar was a total softy for Matthew and it was so stinking adorable! I loved how patient and kind he was with Matthew, and never pressured him to be anything other than himself.
September 9, 2025
I love this series
Another fantastic book in the barbarian series. I think Matthew is just precious.
Kinda wish that Einar’s solitude was explained but it didn’t detract from my enjoyment
Another fantastic book in the barbarian series. I think Matthew is just precious.
Kinda wish that Einar’s solitude was explained but it didn’t detract from my enjoyment
September 2, 2025
This book is my absolute favourite in the series.
My heart broke for Mathew: he was an absolute sweetheart and the glimpses into past, just broke me.
Einar was quiet and look scary but that couldn’t be further from the truth. He was gruff, badass and spoke his mind yet with Mathew a much gentler, patient yet understanding side of came out.
These two were simply beautiful together. There was one part at the end, that had me in tears but I’m glad things worked out. Mathew eventually came out of his shell and it warmed my heart watching him open up.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
My heart broke for Mathew: he was an absolute sweetheart and the glimpses into past, just broke me.
Einar was quiet and look scary but that couldn’t be further from the truth. He was gruff, badass and spoke his mind yet with Mathew a much gentler, patient yet understanding side of came out.
These two were simply beautiful together. There was one part at the end, that had me in tears but I’m glad things worked out. Mathew eventually came out of his shell and it warmed my heart watching him open up.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
October 21, 2025
Einer is by far my favourite barbarian.
September 3, 2025
4⭐️ 2🌶️
MOOD: lighthearted, sad, tense
TROPES: age gap, found family
GENRES: historical romance, lgbtq+ romance
MAIN CHARACTERS: Matthew and Einar
THE GOOD: This was a quick and fun read. Matthew and Einar have different struggles but, against some early preconsceptions, they work well together. Matthew finding a home and Einar finding something outside his lonliness & solitude, reluctantly at first, make the story as enjoyable as it was. It does follow a formula which I assume is similar in other books in the series. This is book 4 and I did not read book 1- 3 but I have read other Amy Padilla books. It read fine as a standalone, I just wondered if Finn and Simon had other stories already since they were some of the side characters mentioned.
THE MEH: The names got me - I know it's not a new name but the name Matthew felt out of place for the indistinct time period.
CW: violence, blood, sexual content, death
DISCLAIMER: I received an advance review copy. This is my honest review.
MOOD: lighthearted, sad, tense
TROPES: age gap, found family
GENRES: historical romance, lgbtq+ romance
MAIN CHARACTERS: Matthew and Einar
THE GOOD: This was a quick and fun read. Matthew and Einar have different struggles but, against some early preconsceptions, they work well together. Matthew finding a home and Einar finding something outside his lonliness & solitude, reluctantly at first, make the story as enjoyable as it was. It does follow a formula which I assume is similar in other books in the series. This is book 4 and I did not read book 1- 3 but I have read other Amy Padilla books. It read fine as a standalone, I just wondered if Finn and Simon had other stories already since they were some of the side characters mentioned.
THE MEH: The names got me - I know it's not a new name but the name Matthew felt out of place for the indistinct time period.
CW: violence, blood, sexual content, death
DISCLAIMER: I received an advance review copy. This is my honest review.
September 2, 2025
- series
- age gap
- found family
This is the 4th in a series, for some odd reason I've jumped in at Book 4 having not read the others, but I still picked up the story and characters and really enjoyed it. Matthew decides to offer himself up voluntarily when the barbarian clans come to claim their yearly tribute. He's an outcast in his town, ostracized for no good reason other than the townspeople are terrible. He's shy, with a bad stammer and even lower self esteem when he comes to the barbarian camp. His original protector fails spectacularly in that mission, and he finds himself with the self-imposed camp outcast Einar. Right from the start Einar is protective of him, looking out for him when nobody else was willing to.
Although this is a short read, there's plenty of story here and I'm assuming cameos from the other books too. I liked the unfolding of Einar and Matthew's story, I loved how patient Einar was with Matthew and how willing he was to help once he got past his initial grumpiness at finding himself saddled with a tribute. These two work together so well, Matthew softening Einar's hard edges and Einar bringing Matthew out of his shell, slowly but surely. This was a fun read, I liked the setting of the barbarian camp and the cast of surrounding characters too. I may go and find the previous books, I liked this so much.
- age gap
- found family
This is the 4th in a series, for some odd reason I've jumped in at Book 4 having not read the others, but I still picked up the story and characters and really enjoyed it. Matthew decides to offer himself up voluntarily when the barbarian clans come to claim their yearly tribute. He's an outcast in his town, ostracized for no good reason other than the townspeople are terrible. He's shy, with a bad stammer and even lower self esteem when he comes to the barbarian camp. His original protector fails spectacularly in that mission, and he finds himself with the self-imposed camp outcast Einar. Right from the start Einar is protective of him, looking out for him when nobody else was willing to.
Although this is a short read, there's plenty of story here and I'm assuming cameos from the other books too. I liked the unfolding of Einar and Matthew's story, I loved how patient Einar was with Matthew and how willing he was to help once he got past his initial grumpiness at finding himself saddled with a tribute. These two work together so well, Matthew softening Einar's hard edges and Einar bringing Matthew out of his shell, slowly but surely. This was a fun read, I liked the setting of the barbarian camp and the cast of surrounding characters too. I may go and find the previous books, I liked this so much.
August 31, 2025
The Barbarian's Claim is the 4th book in the Not-So-Savage Barbarians series. In my opinion this series is best read in order. This is the story of Einar a barbarian and Mathew a tribute. This story pulled on my heart stings so much that I actually cried a couple of times. Matthew volunteers to be a tribute thinking if he dies at least he is saving someone else. His first barbarian protector doesn't like Mathew because he doesn't talk, not realizing that he can't. Einar doesn't feel like he would do well as a protector but he ends up becoming Mathew's and things go from there. I loved this story so much. Watching these two figure things out and become more was so satisfying. I think this is my favorite book in the series so far. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
received a free review copy
received a free review copy
September 8, 2025
I loved this book so much!
Not-So-Savage Barbarians has quickly become my favorite series of the year. Each book gets better and better.
In The Barbarian’s Claim, we get Einar’s story (the dangerous, reclusive barbarian) and Mathew, the tribute who volunteered to step into this world. I don’t want to give away too much, because this is one of those books best experienced fresh, with all its emotions hitting you firsthand.
I can't wait for the next book. I don't want this series to ever end. Can we have many, many more books, please?
Not-So-Savage Barbarians has quickly become my favorite series of the year. Each book gets better and better.
In The Barbarian’s Claim, we get Einar’s story (the dangerous, reclusive barbarian) and Mathew, the tribute who volunteered to step into this world. I don’t want to give away too much, because this is one of those books best experienced fresh, with all its emotions hitting you firsthand.
I can't wait for the next book. I don't want this series to ever end. Can we have many, many more books, please?
September 8, 2025
i swear, this series is like chicken soup for the soul for me. it's got mountains of men who are endlessly sweet and caring, it has forced proximity and found family vibes, characters from previous books show up without that being annoying and usually star barbarian's that showed up in previous ones as well.
it's just taking a vacation inside my head.
and now, i will finish this review with the best burn i've ever read:
“Your mouth must be jealous of your ass with the amount of shit spewing from your lips,” he sneered, marching around Orn to stand in front of me.
it's just taking a vacation inside my head.
and now, i will finish this review with the best burn i've ever read:
“Your mouth must be jealous of your ass with the amount of shit spewing from your lips,” he sneered, marching around Orn to stand in front of me.
November 1, 2025
These are such silly little books, but I really enjoy them as a palate cleanser. And it was definitely a good vehicle to get me out of my reading slump because it’s very fan fiction-y and easy to read. I actually really enjoyed the relationship in this particular story as well. It was probably one of my favorites after Simon’s book.
October 27, 2025
I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about this one, but I ended up really enjoying it. I liked the progression of their relationship and how each gained something they needed but love grew out of it.
September 3, 2025
Awwwwwww, this might be my favorite so far! 🥰🥰🥰 I absolutely adored it.
December 13, 2025
Another book in this series that I enjoyed very much.
Oooohhh poor Matthew, he lived out in the streets and nobody cared about him. Becoming a tribute was certainly the best that could happen to him.
I loved how Einar and Matthew were perfect for each other. The barbarian was different to his fellow clan members and that made him understand Matthew. They were very sweet together, but then all couples i this series are swoony.
Finn kept crying in this book too and that fact made me laugh because, well, he was a very sensitive man and everything made him cry.
I also like about this series that all the tributes seem to be finding their place in the clan helping others or doing a specific job themselves.
Well, another good and entertaining installment in the series.
Oooohhh poor Matthew, he lived out in the streets and nobody cared about him. Becoming a tribute was certainly the best that could happen to him.
I loved how Einar and Matthew were perfect for each other. The barbarian was different to his fellow clan members and that made him understand Matthew. They were very sweet together, but then all couples i this series are swoony.
Finn kept crying in this book too and that fact made me laugh because, well, he was a very sensitive man and everything made him cry.
I also like about this series that all the tributes seem to be finding their place in the clan helping others or doing a specific job themselves.
Well, another good and entertaining installment in the series.
November 11, 2025
“ But every time I felt like I could be happy, my only life only got worse. So when I heard the town asking for volunteers for tributes for the barbarians clans, I thought maybe if I did something good for someone else, I’d at lest get the chance to have something better in my next life”.
¿He visto que existía esta novela y me la he leído en menos de lo que canta un gallo? Sí. No me he escondido durante años no me voy a esconder ahora. Ha estado mucho mejor que la tercera entrega. Le da unas cuantas vueltas. Este protagonista me ha dado ternura y creo que se queda en mis favoritos.
¿He visto que existía esta novela y me la he leído en menos de lo que canta un gallo? Sí. No me he escondido durante años no me voy a esconder ahora. Ha estado mucho mejor que la tercera entrega. Le da unas cuantas vueltas. Este protagonista me ha dado ternura y creo que se queda en mis favoritos.
September 6, 2025
I’ve been really enjoying this series and was looking forward to Einar’s book, because who doesn’t love a scarred, grumpy barbarian finding love? I had high hopes, and it did start out with great potential, but there was just something missing that’s kept me from truly loving Matthew and Einar’s story. Book one is my favorite so far, and has become a sort of comfort read for me. There’s just something special about Rath and Finn, which I was hoping that magic would happen again with this book, but it fell a little short.
Honestly, that’s probably the main issue. This book needed to be longer in order to really flesh out Matthew’s trauma. And I really wanted to see more of his healing with Einar, but it all ends fairly abruptly. The other books are similar in length (under 200 pages), but, somehow, the author achieved better depth with those than this one. It’s also unclear why Einar doesn’t think he’s bondmate material. He’s particular and gruff, but that doesn’t mean he can’t find a good match (obviously…Matthew). And it’s also not that he’s just not ready to settle down. And he doesn’t sleep around or have a regular bedmate either. He just has this notion that he can’t love someone like he thinks they should be loved. There’s no one way to love someone…maybe that was the point, but it isn’t clearly made here. And Einar never has this epiphany.
After Einar and Matthew become intimate, I expected Einar to show more emotion. But even when Matthew tells him that he loves him, Einar doesn’t reciprocate 😢 He clearly does love Matthew, and shows it through action, but he doesn’t say it back, and that really bothered me. Matthew has no family left and he just wants to be loved and accepted for who he is. Einar accepts him and protects him and supports and encourages him, but I wanted to feel more of a sweetness from him. It’s hard to explain, but it’s like he’s the best protector, but lacks care and compassion. I love me a broody alpha male, but I want him to have a soft spot for his person at least. Einar is patient and generous and kind, but really not sweet. But Matthew doesn’t seem to mind that he isn’t overly affectionate or passionate. He prefers his protection and patience and acceptance over all else.
They DO love each other. And it’s easy to see. But I just wanted MORE. And I wanted to see them living together as an official couple more and getting Matthew’s speech and confidence built up. Overall, I still enjoyed their story and will likely read it again, but it did let me down a little since I was hoping for another power couple like Finn and Rath.
Honestly, that’s probably the main issue. This book needed to be longer in order to really flesh out Matthew’s trauma. And I really wanted to see more of his healing with Einar, but it all ends fairly abruptly. The other books are similar in length (under 200 pages), but, somehow, the author achieved better depth with those than this one. It’s also unclear why Einar doesn’t think he’s bondmate material. He’s particular and gruff, but that doesn’t mean he can’t find a good match (obviously…Matthew). And it’s also not that he’s just not ready to settle down. And he doesn’t sleep around or have a regular bedmate either. He just has this notion that he can’t love someone like he thinks they should be loved. There’s no one way to love someone…maybe that was the point, but it isn’t clearly made here. And Einar never has this epiphany.
After Einar and Matthew become intimate, I expected Einar to show more emotion. But even when Matthew tells him that he loves him, Einar doesn’t reciprocate 😢 He clearly does love Matthew, and shows it through action, but he doesn’t say it back, and that really bothered me. Matthew has no family left and he just wants to be loved and accepted for who he is. Einar accepts him and protects him and supports and encourages him, but I wanted to feel more of a sweetness from him. It’s hard to explain, but it’s like he’s the best protector, but lacks care and compassion. I love me a broody alpha male, but I want him to have a soft spot for his person at least. Einar is patient and generous and kind, but really not sweet. But Matthew doesn’t seem to mind that he isn’t overly affectionate or passionate. He prefers his protection and patience and acceptance over all else.
They DO love each other. And it’s easy to see. But I just wanted MORE. And I wanted to see them living together as an official couple more and getting Matthew’s speech and confidence built up. Overall, I still enjoyed their story and will likely read it again, but it did let me down a little since I was hoping for another power couple like Finn and Rath.
September 6, 2025
Since we're at book 4, you should already know what you're getting into when you open this.
Matthew is possibly the saddest of sacks so far, though. He genuinely hopes for the best, but sadly, "the best" means "able to survive," and nothing more. He lost his family at a young age, got turned out from the orphanage at 17, and has been starving and freezing on the streets of his town ever since. He volunteers as tribute for his town and is taken by the barbarians.
Matthew does not speak except for the extremely rare occasion. When he does, he usually stutters and it's no louder than a whisper. After a rocky start and a barbarian that didn't care anything about him, Einar takes over his care (the one that helped Patrick in the forest and saved Simon in his book).
Einar is quiet and patient. He notices how young Matthew looks, especially with how slight he's built, and sets about essentially fattening him up. He teaches Matthew some of the language and how to do a few different jobs.
Matthew is extremely hard on himself and often considers himself stupid and useless for every one of his shortcomings. He struggles finding any value in himself. However, it may well be that his struggles end up helping him: when Einar feels it would be best for Matthew to move on and settle down with someone else, Matthew experiences panic attacks and begs him not to send him away. Einar is hopeless to say no to Matthew, especially since he worries about anyone else doing enough to care for Matthew. Obviously, they eventually commit to each other.
In the end, I wish there'd been more backstory for both of these. Also, I feel like there's a few plot holes/inconsistencies:
Finn is sweet as pie, patient, and absolutely nonconfrontational, but just a few minutes into a language lesson with Matthew and Matthew is crying and shutting down. What happened in that lesson?
And every book hammers in the idea that "this tribe is different, we value our tributes and place them above everything," but man nearly every book depends on some conflict within the tribe and there's been some *real* assholes, so maybe they're not as good and kind as they think they are, hmmmmm???
Anyway. Probably not supposed to look into it too deeply...
Matthew is possibly the saddest of sacks so far, though. He genuinely hopes for the best, but sadly, "the best" means "able to survive," and nothing more. He lost his family at a young age, got turned out from the orphanage at 17, and has been starving and freezing on the streets of his town ever since. He volunteers as tribute for his town and is taken by the barbarians.
Matthew does not speak except for the extremely rare occasion. When he does, he usually stutters and it's no louder than a whisper. After a rocky start and a barbarian that didn't care anything about him, Einar takes over his care (the one that helped Patrick in the forest and saved Simon in his book).
Einar is quiet and patient. He notices how young Matthew looks, especially with how slight he's built, and sets about essentially fattening him up. He teaches Matthew some of the language and how to do a few different jobs.
Matthew is extremely hard on himself and often considers himself stupid and useless for every one of his shortcomings. He struggles finding any value in himself. However, it may well be that his struggles end up helping him: when Einar feels it would be best for Matthew to move on and settle down with someone else, Matthew experiences panic attacks and begs him not to send him away. Einar is hopeless to say no to Matthew, especially since he worries about anyone else doing enough to care for Matthew. Obviously, they eventually commit to each other.
In the end, I wish there'd been more backstory for both of these. Also, I feel like there's a few plot holes/inconsistencies:
Finn is sweet as pie, patient, and absolutely nonconfrontational, but just a few minutes into a language lesson with Matthew and Matthew is crying and shutting down. What happened in that lesson?
And every book hammers in the idea that "this tribe is different, we value our tributes and place them above everything," but man nearly every book depends on some conflict within the tribe and there's been some *real* assholes, so maybe they're not as good and kind as they think they are, hmmmmm???
Anyway. Probably not supposed to look into it too deeply...
September 5, 2025
Another sweet and tasty—and violent, for you bloodthirsty types!—little bite of a romance in the barbarian clans-tributes world. It's not blowing the doors off, but it's an entertaining escape and I read it in one sitting.
Matthew voluteers as tribute! Er...tribute to leave his village and be taken by the barbarian clans to become a partner to one of them. Matthew lost his family and home and is not beloved in his village. He also struggles with a stammer and anxiety thanks to trauma. He'll be protected by a barbarian as he gets to know the clan and perhaps meet someone to bond with (that's marriage for the clan).
Einar prefers to live alone, on the outskirts of the clan village. But he can't stand by when the new tribute's assigned protector keeps f-ing things up and not protecting the quiet, shy man. In fact, soon he's driven to violence over the lack of respect!
Einar wants to be alone. Matthew can't bear to be a burden. But sometimes, what we think we want and what winds up being a perfect balance of quiet and support are two different things.
Really enjoyed seeing them come together, form a protector-protectee relationship that leads to so much more. The reluctance yet awareness and growing physicality between them made for a lovely slow-burn romance. With some beheadings along the way. You know...like bouquets of flowers, but, bloodier! 😁
I'd have loved for the story to be deeper and develop more of Einar's background and life in the clan, but, it was still a lot of fun to read. Cameos from previous characters add a nice touch.
HEA, barbarian-tribute romance, speech impairment, touch him and DIE, "I'm not good enough for him" (x 2!). Totally safe for me, no others, no wanting anyone else. All OM drama is not romance related. Recommended.
Matthew voluteers as tribute! Er...tribute to leave his village and be taken by the barbarian clans to become a partner to one of them. Matthew lost his family and home and is not beloved in his village. He also struggles with a stammer and anxiety thanks to trauma. He'll be protected by a barbarian as he gets to know the clan and perhaps meet someone to bond with (that's marriage for the clan).
Einar prefers to live alone, on the outskirts of the clan village. But he can't stand by when the new tribute's assigned protector keeps f-ing things up and not protecting the quiet, shy man. In fact, soon he's driven to violence over the lack of respect!
Einar wants to be alone. Matthew can't bear to be a burden. But sometimes, what we think we want and what winds up being a perfect balance of quiet and support are two different things.
Really enjoyed seeing them come together, form a protector-protectee relationship that leads to so much more. The reluctance yet awareness and growing physicality between them made for a lovely slow-burn romance. With some beheadings along the way. You know...like bouquets of flowers, but, bloodier! 😁
I'd have loved for the story to be deeper and develop more of Einar's background and life in the clan, but, it was still a lot of fun to read. Cameos from previous characters add a nice touch.
HEA, barbarian-tribute romance, speech impairment, touch him and DIE, "I'm not good enough for him" (x 2!). Totally safe for me, no others, no wanting anyone else. All OM drama is not romance related. Recommended.
September 7, 2025
TBR, who? ARCS, what? Here's Amy Padilla's latest: "The Barbarian's Claim." It's the fourth official novel in her Not-So-Savage Barbarians series.
["I’ve been alone most of my life. No family, no home. No one would care if I disappeared. I wouldn’t survive another year on my own. In a desperate attempt to survive, I volunteered as tribute to the barbarians after hearing they now accepted males. At least if I died, I would have done something good by sparing someone else. But it wasn’t at all what I was expecting. And when my protector abandons me for being unable to speak, I’m left floundering again until someone else steps up to take his place. He’s dangerous and scarred, and people give him a wide berth, but he offers me something I haven’t had since I was a child. Safety. I’d be a fool to walk away now."]
Another FABULOUS addition to an amazing series. I don't remember Matthew from Simon's book, but I do remember Einar. Matthew reminded me a lot of Patrick (and Finn), all broken and lonely and just wanting a place of his own. Luckily, stubbornness or not, Einar was there to give him protection, a friend, cuddles, and a home. They were adorable as hell, even if they pissed off a few people (they'll get what's coming to them--in the form of Einar's knife or fate giving them their own mate).
Trigger Warnings: dubious consent, threats of and violence against the MC, attempted assault, and more.
#theunexpectedbarbarian #thebarbarianstribute #savedbyabarbarian #seduingabarbarian #thebarbariansclaim #thephysiciansbarbarian #thebarbarianprince #notsosavagebarbarians #notsosavagedbarbariansseries #amypadilla #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["I’ve been alone most of my life. No family, no home. No one would care if I disappeared. I wouldn’t survive another year on my own. In a desperate attempt to survive, I volunteered as tribute to the barbarians after hearing they now accepted males. At least if I died, I would have done something good by sparing someone else. But it wasn’t at all what I was expecting. And when my protector abandons me for being unable to speak, I’m left floundering again until someone else steps up to take his place. He’s dangerous and scarred, and people give him a wide berth, but he offers me something I haven’t had since I was a child. Safety. I’d be a fool to walk away now."]
Another FABULOUS addition to an amazing series. I don't remember Matthew from Simon's book, but I do remember Einar. Matthew reminded me a lot of Patrick (and Finn), all broken and lonely and just wanting a place of his own. Luckily, stubbornness or not, Einar was there to give him protection, a friend, cuddles, and a home. They were adorable as hell, even if they pissed off a few people (they'll get what's coming to them--in the form of Einar's knife or fate giving them their own mate).
Trigger Warnings: dubious consent, threats of and violence against the MC, attempted assault, and more.
#theunexpectedbarbarian #thebarbarianstribute #savedbyabarbarian #seduingabarbarian #thebarbariansclaim #thephysiciansbarbarian #thebarbarianprince #notsosavagebarbarians #notsosavagedbarbariansseries #amypadilla #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
January 19, 2026
This was actually really good.
Honestly, I came straight from The Barbarian's Tribute, since this blurb just spoke to me.
And where The Barbarian's Tribute was a guilty pleasure - It wasn't a clever story in any way, Finn was VERY tearful (though I defended him because he WAS a fragile character, that was the point) and the story over all didn't have much muchness - It DID deliver on delicious hurt/comfort, worry, protection and defending.
The Barbarian's Claim, however, actually had soul. It was carried by an amazing character-driven plot, a wonderful pace that wasn't just a couple of weeks, lovely character depth and development.
The theme of trauma leading to incapabilities was strong and so very well delivered.
The story of two lonesome souls (lonesome in different ways) finding each other was a lovely journey. Nothing about Einar and Matthew was insta. They find each other because of circumstance, stays together because Einar sees it as the right thing to do, and they bond together through being there for one another in a quiet and natural way. The bond develops, and the reader sees them going through the different stages. What starts off as a bond of protection, brings with it accept, patience, respect and worry, and slowly, yet satisfying, turns to love.
It was actually really well done.
And now I am curious whether I should go back and actually read volume 2 and 3 (I have become a bit curious about Simon, despite the blurb of his story didn't really catch me before)
I would have loved a prober book, not just 165 pages, with Einar and Matthew (though I also see that this length was very fitting for the simple, yet precise, story)
Honestly, I came straight from The Barbarian's Tribute, since this blurb just spoke to me.
And where The Barbarian's Tribute was a guilty pleasure - It wasn't a clever story in any way, Finn was VERY tearful (though I defended him because he WAS a fragile character, that was the point) and the story over all didn't have much muchness - It DID deliver on delicious hurt/comfort, worry, protection and defending.
The Barbarian's Claim, however, actually had soul. It was carried by an amazing character-driven plot, a wonderful pace that wasn't just a couple of weeks, lovely character depth and development.
The theme of trauma leading to incapabilities was strong and so very well delivered.
The story of two lonesome souls (lonesome in different ways) finding each other was a lovely journey. Nothing about Einar and Matthew was insta. They find each other because of circumstance, stays together because Einar sees it as the right thing to do, and they bond together through being there for one another in a quiet and natural way. The bond develops, and the reader sees them going through the different stages. What starts off as a bond of protection, brings with it accept, patience, respect and worry, and slowly, yet satisfying, turns to love.
It was actually really well done.
And now I am curious whether I should go back and actually read volume 2 and 3 (I have become a bit curious about Simon, despite the blurb of his story didn't really catch me before)
I would have loved a prober book, not just 165 pages, with Einar and Matthew (though I also see that this length was very fitting for the simple, yet precise, story)
September 3, 2025
The Barbarian’s Claim
Not-So-Savage Barbarians Book Four
By Amy Padilla
I really enjoy this series! We have seen Einar keep himself separate from the clan in previous books. I always wondered why and if he would get his own story.
Einar is a warrior, capable of getting lost in his bloodlust in order to protect his clan from every threat. That isolates him from most of the clan though other warriors respect him and ask for his help sometimes. His quiet steady calm and strength are what draw Matthew to him.
Matthew is an orphan. He volunteered to be a tribute, because he knew he had a better chance of survival outside of his town. His first protector, Orn, didn’t treat him well. Orn’s lack of care and protection was how Matthew ended up with Einar.
Einar and Matthew’s story may end up being my favorite in this series. Einar can be seen for who he is, a fierce protector, a calming presence, and someone who doesn’t judge. Einar is exactly what Matthew needs in a protector and a lover. Einar deserves happiness and needed to believe that he was enough for Matthew. He gives Matthew confidence in return which allows him to make friends with Simon and Finn. I love this book and I absolutely devoured it in one day. It is perfectly paced to keep you on your toes. The characters are well written and the story starts on the same timeline as Simon’s book which I always think is incredible. As a reader, it is hard to keep all the timelines straight and Amy Padilla managed to do it and do it well.
Not-So-Savage Barbarians Book Four
By Amy Padilla
I really enjoy this series! We have seen Einar keep himself separate from the clan in previous books. I always wondered why and if he would get his own story.
Einar is a warrior, capable of getting lost in his bloodlust in order to protect his clan from every threat. That isolates him from most of the clan though other warriors respect him and ask for his help sometimes. His quiet steady calm and strength are what draw Matthew to him.
Matthew is an orphan. He volunteered to be a tribute, because he knew he had a better chance of survival outside of his town. His first protector, Orn, didn’t treat him well. Orn’s lack of care and protection was how Matthew ended up with Einar.
Einar and Matthew’s story may end up being my favorite in this series. Einar can be seen for who he is, a fierce protector, a calming presence, and someone who doesn’t judge. Einar is exactly what Matthew needs in a protector and a lover. Einar deserves happiness and needed to believe that he was enough for Matthew. He gives Matthew confidence in return which allows him to make friends with Simon and Finn. I love this book and I absolutely devoured it in one day. It is perfectly paced to keep you on your toes. The characters are well written and the story starts on the same timeline as Simon’s book which I always think is incredible. As a reader, it is hard to keep all the timelines straight and Amy Padilla managed to do it and do it well.
September 4, 2025
This is the fourth book in the Not-So-Savage Barbarians series. Each book deals with a different couple but I would recommend reading the series in order to better understand who all the secondary characters are. This is the story of Matthew and Einar. Matthew has been traumatized by a fire that killed the rest of his family. Once he aged out of foster care, he has been fighting to survive on his own with no skills and a very limited ability to communicate. Knowing that he probably won't survive another winter, he volunteers to be a tribute for his town. He hopes that this will bring him a better life. He is not afraid to work hard and looks forward to proving himself. Unfortunately, the first barbarian that he is paired with is not the protector he deserves. He disregards him because Matthew doesn't speak. While hiding from an enemy raid Matthew ends up in Einar's tent. While Einar is large and intimidating he prefers quiet and his own company. Luckily Matthew is quiet and he feels safe with such a large protector. This is their story. I liked how Einar gave Matthew the time to grow and feel safe. He never rushed him nor ridiculed him. Their relationship slowly grew from a very solid foundation. I really enjoyed this story. The book is very well written and easy to read. I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review. This is a really great read. I look forward to the next book in this series.
September 3, 2025
This was such a heartwarming read. Something I appreciate from this series!!
Mathew and Einar were such a fresh and different couple. Their dynamic and the base of their love sort of start as protection that then grows into trust.
Mathew has had a hard time in his town; people dismiss and ignore him all the time because he has difficulty expressing himself when talking. So he decides to volunteer as tribute to the barbarians' clan.
Einar has always liked being alone; he doesn’t often like to be surrounded by people and meaningless talk. In his clan he is often feared because of his appearance and violent way he fights but is very vocal when needed for the sake of the people in the clan.
Since Mathew's first protector failed him, Einar steps up after the recent attack on the clan, and their day-to-day lives start to change the more time they spend together.
Einar is just what Mathew needed in his life: someone who doesn’t judge, pressure him to talk, and sees him. It was beautiful to witness his growth and slowly opening up to Einar and later to the rest of the clan. Mathew’s company is something Einar never knew he needed, and their hunt journeys solidify their closeness between them.
In the trust and procreation is where they find themselves comfortable, which is how they express their love for each other, and I found that very unique and perfect for their dynamic.
Mathew and Einar were such a fresh and different couple. Their dynamic and the base of their love sort of start as protection that then grows into trust.
Mathew has had a hard time in his town; people dismiss and ignore him all the time because he has difficulty expressing himself when talking. So he decides to volunteer as tribute to the barbarians' clan.
Einar has always liked being alone; he doesn’t often like to be surrounded by people and meaningless talk. In his clan he is often feared because of his appearance and violent way he fights but is very vocal when needed for the sake of the people in the clan.
Since Mathew's first protector failed him, Einar steps up after the recent attack on the clan, and their day-to-day lives start to change the more time they spend together.
Einar is just what Mathew needed in his life: someone who doesn’t judge, pressure him to talk, and sees him. It was beautiful to witness his growth and slowly opening up to Einar and later to the rest of the clan. Mathew’s company is something Einar never knew he needed, and their hunt journeys solidify their closeness between them.
In the trust and procreation is where they find themselves comfortable, which is how they express their love for each other, and I found that very unique and perfect for their dynamic.
September 7, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
The Barbarian’s Claim is the kind of story that stays with you long after you finish it, not because of sweeping battles or dramatic twists, but because of the quiet, tender way it explores love, healing, and acceptance. Mathew’s perspective immediately pulled at my heart - an outcast with no family and little self-worth, he offers himself as tribute to the barbarians not out of bravery, but out of resignation. His stammer and shyness have left him overlooked and unwanted, which makes his journey toward finding safety and belonging all the more poignant. When his first protector cruelly abandons him, Einar steps in, and what begins as a reluctant duty soon transforms into something deeply moving.
Einar is scarred, intimidating, and a bit of a loner within the camp, yet with Mathew he reveals a patience and gentleness that few ever see. Their bond unfolds slowly, each moment of understanding and care breaking down walls that have stood for years. Watching Mathew begin to open up, and Einar soften in return, was both heartbreaking and heartwarming. I especially loved how their relationship wasn’t rushed. The progression felt natural and earned, making their eventual closeness even more powerful.
Amy Padilla has crafted something truly special here. The Barbarian’s Claim is tender, hopeful, and beautifully romantic, easily my favorite of the series so far. If you love stories where broken souls find safety and love in each other, this one is a must-read.
The Barbarian’s Claim is the kind of story that stays with you long after you finish it, not because of sweeping battles or dramatic twists, but because of the quiet, tender way it explores love, healing, and acceptance. Mathew’s perspective immediately pulled at my heart - an outcast with no family and little self-worth, he offers himself as tribute to the barbarians not out of bravery, but out of resignation. His stammer and shyness have left him overlooked and unwanted, which makes his journey toward finding safety and belonging all the more poignant. When his first protector cruelly abandons him, Einar steps in, and what begins as a reluctant duty soon transforms into something deeply moving.
Einar is scarred, intimidating, and a bit of a loner within the camp, yet with Mathew he reveals a patience and gentleness that few ever see. Their bond unfolds slowly, each moment of understanding and care breaking down walls that have stood for years. Watching Mathew begin to open up, and Einar soften in return, was both heartbreaking and heartwarming. I especially loved how their relationship wasn’t rushed. The progression felt natural and earned, making their eventual closeness even more powerful.
Amy Padilla has crafted something truly special here. The Barbarian’s Claim is tender, hopeful, and beautifully romantic, easily my favorite of the series so far. If you love stories where broken souls find safety and love in each other, this one is a must-read.
December 9, 2025
Not terrible but not particularly good either. As the fourth in the series, there are some passable differences between these two MCs and the past pairings but their POVs are just so bland and the premise is getting boring…
I did enjoy seeing the patience of stoic Einard with timid Matthew and his stutter but I still felt myself skimming through most of the story.
I also can’t stand very blatant medical wand waving… M’s injury was bad enough that they had to take him to a town’s doctor for surgery, but honestly, if the stabbing was that bad, would he have really survived the trip to town?? And then the doctor insists on them taking it easy on the return trip and then once they get back to the village (one to two weeks after surgery?) he’s taken to bathe in the frigid river and then they she sex… come on. It doesn’t take that much medical knowledge (common sense really) to know he has a weakened immune system and shouldn’t be taking the chance of getting an injection from the river and/or getting sick from a cold river at night.. also, sex after surgery is super reckless…
I’m also getting tired of the cold river thing. Yes, people from the clan would be used to the cold, but they wouldn’t be bathing in it when it’s snowy. If it’s that cold, they could get hypothermia quickly (it doesn’t matter if you grew up there…) Everyone in the clan would me taking water (or snow if it’s available) and boiling that in tents to bath (most likely wetting rags)…
End rant.
I did enjoy seeing the patience of stoic Einard with timid Matthew and his stutter but I still felt myself skimming through most of the story.
I also can’t stand very blatant medical wand waving… M’s injury was bad enough that they had to take him to a town’s doctor for surgery, but honestly, if the stabbing was that bad, would he have really survived the trip to town?? And then the doctor insists on them taking it easy on the return trip and then once they get back to the village (one to two weeks after surgery?) he’s taken to bathe in the frigid river and then they she sex… come on. It doesn’t take that much medical knowledge (common sense really) to know he has a weakened immune system and shouldn’t be taking the chance of getting an injection from the river and/or getting sick from a cold river at night.. also, sex after surgery is super reckless…
I’m also getting tired of the cold river thing. Yes, people from the clan would be used to the cold, but they wouldn’t be bathing in it when it’s snowy. If it’s that cold, they could get hypothermia quickly (it doesn’t matter if you grew up there…) Everyone in the clan would me taking water (or snow if it’s available) and boiling that in tents to bath (most likely wetting rags)…
End rant.
September 25, 2025
This is a protector x tribute romance novella, featuring Matthew and Einar, and is book four in the Not-So-Savage Barbarian series.
Matthew’s spent his whole life alone, so when survival feels impossible, he volunteers as a tribute to the barbarians—expecting death, not a future. When the first man assigned to him abandons him, a scarred, intimidating warrior steps in instead, offering the safety Matthew’s been craving, and suddenly he’s not so ready to give up.
This story was soft and sweet. Matthew goes into it expecting death and loneliness, but what he actually finds is safety, protection, and the possibility of love. The dynamic between the scarred, intimidating warrior and sweet, voiceless Matthew just works. It’s protective, tender, and gave me all the found family vibes. Low angst, heartfelt, and surprisingly sweet for a setup that could’ve been so dark. I’ve really enjoyed reading this series so far. Next two books come out later this year.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 4 in series
MM fantasy romance
Novella
Check CW
Volunteers as tribute
Hurt / Comfort
Loss of family
Abandoned
Touch starved & voiceless MC
Rival clan drama
Age gap (40/20)
Protective
Spicy times
Praise kink
Claims him
Found family
HEA
Matthew’s spent his whole life alone, so when survival feels impossible, he volunteers as a tribute to the barbarians—expecting death, not a future. When the first man assigned to him abandons him, a scarred, intimidating warrior steps in instead, offering the safety Matthew’s been craving, and suddenly he’s not so ready to give up.
This story was soft and sweet. Matthew goes into it expecting death and loneliness, but what he actually finds is safety, protection, and the possibility of love. The dynamic between the scarred, intimidating warrior and sweet, voiceless Matthew just works. It’s protective, tender, and gave me all the found family vibes. Low angst, heartfelt, and surprisingly sweet for a setup that could’ve been so dark. I’ve really enjoyed reading this series so far. Next two books come out later this year.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 4 in series
MM fantasy romance
Novella
Check CW
Volunteers as tribute
Hurt / Comfort
Loss of family
Abandoned
Touch starved & voiceless MC
Rival clan drama
Age gap (40/20)
Protective
Spicy times
Praise kink
Claims him
Found family
HEA
Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews