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Vikings Saga #1
Viking For Hire
Branwyn O’Tyre’s estranged brother summons her for a healing ritual. Fearing he actually plans to arrest her for witchcraft, she drinks a protection potion before he arrives.
Eirik, a Viking sea captain pretending slumber in the tavern corner, witnesses Branwyn’s magic and offers her safe passage from Exeter if she will attempt to reverse a curse that plagues him. Unfortunately, every woman who touches him falls wildly but falsely in love with him.
There’s only one hitch. If she fails, Branwyn’s heart will become a victim to the same madness...forever!
Eirik, a Viking sea captain pretending slumber in the tavern corner, witnesses Branwyn’s magic and offers her safe passage from Exeter if she will attempt to reverse a curse that plagues him. Unfortunately, every woman who touches him falls wildly but falsely in love with him.
There’s only one hitch. If she fails, Branwyn’s heart will become a victim to the same madness...forever!
59 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 6, 2015
29 people are currently reading
648 people want to read
About the author
Jo Grafford
166 books664 followersJo is an Amazon bestselling author of heartwarming cowboy romantic suspense stories, with a few Texas-sized detours into humor.
Join Cuppa Jo Readers at https://www.facebook.com/groups/Cuppa.... Join her newsletter at https://www.JoGrafford.com.
Jo also writes clean western historical romance and cozy mysteries as Jovie Grace.
Join Cuppa Jo Readers at https://www.facebook.com/groups/Cuppa.... Join her newsletter at https://www.JoGrafford.com.
Jo also writes clean western historical romance and cozy mysteries as Jovie Grace.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
December 14, 2015
Published: 06/02/2015
Author: Jo Grafford
Recommended for: short historical romance fans
I received this book through the GoodReads FirstReads competition and here is my honest review for it.
I thought that the book was a very good short (59 pages) read. The main character of Branwyn was really fun to read she was funny, smart and very well decribed by the author you got a real sense of who she was even though the book was fair short you still felt like you knew her. This book gives the reader a real sense of how talented Jo Grafford is and I will definately be looking out for more book by her! I really enjoyed reading it, it is a really good read for fans of historical romance books that also feature a hint of magic.
Author: Jo Grafford
Recommended for: short historical romance fans
I received this book through the GoodReads FirstReads competition and here is my honest review for it.
I thought that the book was a very good short (59 pages) read. The main character of Branwyn was really fun to read she was funny, smart and very well decribed by the author you got a real sense of who she was even though the book was fair short you still felt like you knew her. This book gives the reader a real sense of how talented Jo Grafford is and I will definately be looking out for more book by her! I really enjoyed reading it, it is a really good read for fans of historical romance books that also feature a hint of magic.
March 19, 2015
A lovely historical romance with a bit of magic, Viking for Hire was an enjoyable read and I liked it.
Branwyn was a great character. Smart, skilled, and kind, she wasn't Yvette type to back down from anything. I really liked her.
Eirick was good as well. Sweet and determined to break the spell, his nobleness was proven by how he refused to take advantage of any woman caught in his curse. I thought he was a wonderful character.
The romance was sweet. Branwyn and Eirick were well matched and their love went beyond the curse. I thought they were great together.
The plot was quick and kept me interested. I enjoyed the story and I liked how it ended.
Viking for Hire was a wonderful historical romance with a touch of magic. Romance lovers, this is a book worth looking up.
*I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review
Branwyn was a great character. Smart, skilled, and kind, she wasn't Yvette type to back down from anything. I really liked her.
Eirick was good as well. Sweet and determined to break the spell, his nobleness was proven by how he refused to take advantage of any woman caught in his curse. I thought he was a wonderful character.
The romance was sweet. Branwyn and Eirick were well matched and their love went beyond the curse. I thought they were great together.
The plot was quick and kept me interested. I enjoyed the story and I liked how it ended.
Viking for Hire was a wonderful historical romance with a touch of magic. Romance lovers, this is a book worth looking up.
*I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review
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April 30, 2015
Independent Reviewer for Archaeolibrarian I Dig Good Books. I received this copy from Goddess Fish Promotions in exchange for my review.
Branwyn hires Eirik to secure her safety when her brother wants to arrest her and try her for witchcraft. Eirik needs said witchcraft skills to left a curse: any woman who touches him is instantly smitten, but its not true love, and thats what Eirik craves. Branwyn's attraction to Eirik is instant, and powerful, but that is BEFORE she touches him. After, she is out of her mind with need. Once Branwyn knows of the curse, she makes sure to stay away from Eirik. An incident with mermaids causes Branwyn to use her power, and in doing so lifts the curse. But the sorceress who hit Eirik with the curse in the first place is nothing if not determined to get what she wants, and what she wants is Eirik, and New Dorset, gateway to Valhalla.
SHORT: only 89 pages, 40 minutes reading time for me, but an enjoyable 40 mins all the same.
SWEET: its almost totally clean, like squeaky clean. Just some kissing. Some minor tussles with mermaids and wolves but nothing graphic.
TO THE POINT: It says what it needs to say and not much else. I liked that! some short stories feel rushed, and have gaps in the story line, and is over before you know it. While I did think this might well have worked as a longer book, I didn't feel it was rushed or had gaps.
If you like Vikings, magic, short stories, clean and violent free, this is for you. I'd let my 13 year old daughter read it, if only she would listen to me when I tell her about good books!
4 stars
**same worded review will appear on Goodreads, Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk**
Branwyn hires Eirik to secure her safety when her brother wants to arrest her and try her for witchcraft. Eirik needs said witchcraft skills to left a curse: any woman who touches him is instantly smitten, but its not true love, and thats what Eirik craves. Branwyn's attraction to Eirik is instant, and powerful, but that is BEFORE she touches him. After, she is out of her mind with need. Once Branwyn knows of the curse, she makes sure to stay away from Eirik. An incident with mermaids causes Branwyn to use her power, and in doing so lifts the curse. But the sorceress who hit Eirik with the curse in the first place is nothing if not determined to get what she wants, and what she wants is Eirik, and New Dorset, gateway to Valhalla.
SHORT: only 89 pages, 40 minutes reading time for me, but an enjoyable 40 mins all the same.
SWEET: its almost totally clean, like squeaky clean. Just some kissing. Some minor tussles with mermaids and wolves but nothing graphic.
TO THE POINT: It says what it needs to say and not much else. I liked that! some short stories feel rushed, and have gaps in the story line, and is over before you know it. While I did think this might well have worked as a longer book, I didn't feel it was rushed or had gaps.
If you like Vikings, magic, short stories, clean and violent free, this is for you. I'd let my 13 year old daughter read it, if only she would listen to me when I tell her about good books!
4 stars
**same worded review will appear on Goodreads, Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk**
February 25, 2015
I really enjoyed this story. It was very interesting and I fell in love with the characters.
May 6, 2015
Viking for Hire is a short story (60 pages). It is in the historical Romance genre. I personally think Jo Gafford done a great job in writing the story. Every page kept you interest in it. Some short stories feel like they had a set amount of pages and couldn't go over by even one word, rushed I guess you would call it, This story was not like that at all, it was well thought out and planned.
The story is about Branwyn O’Tyre, she is a practicing witch whose estranged half brother The bishop of Exeter has come to arrest, under the ruse of wanting her to do a healing ritual for him. Branwyn drinks a protection potion before he comes, which Eirik sees her do. Branwyn then hires Eirik to give her safe passage away from her brother's clutches. Eirik has a need for her witchcraft and agrees.
Eirik is cursed. Most men would probably like his curse, every woman who sees him falls madly in love with him. Eirik is a gentleman though and does no.t take advantage o f women under the spell.
It is up to Branwyn to break this curse, and she must do it before she looses herself to the curse.
I was given a copy of The Viking For Hire in exchange for my honest review.
The story is about Branwyn O’Tyre, she is a practicing witch whose estranged half brother The bishop of Exeter has come to arrest, under the ruse of wanting her to do a healing ritual for him. Branwyn drinks a protection potion before he comes, which Eirik sees her do. Branwyn then hires Eirik to give her safe passage away from her brother's clutches. Eirik has a need for her witchcraft and agrees.
Eirik is cursed. Most men would probably like his curse, every woman who sees him falls madly in love with him. Eirik is a gentleman though and does no.t take advantage o f women under the spell.
It is up to Branwyn to break this curse, and she must do it before she looses herself to the curse.
I was given a copy of The Viking For Hire in exchange for my honest review.
March 12, 2015
>Review – Viking for Hire -
>I received this book from the author and from Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock. I am an independent reviewer. This is a standalone novella that ends in an HEA.
>Branwyn is a witch fleeing persecution from her religious brother. She hires the Viking, Eirik, to save her. His price is to remove a love spell placed upon him. Hard to do when even she is attracted by the spell.
>This story is very short, but there is a lot of action. The paranormal is real, so the existence of witches and mermaids aren't surprising. Little Mermaids they are not! Sven is Eirik's right hand man and for the short time we meet him, he makes an impression.
>The actual reversal spell goes way easier than I would have expected, but the thought of a huge alpha Viking in drag is a funny one. All in all, this was an exciting, quick, funny read. There really wasn't a lot of time for the romance to develop fully, but it was sweet.
>This book is recommended for a young adult (14+) audience.
>I received this book from the author and from Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock. I am an independent reviewer. This is a standalone novella that ends in an HEA.
>Branwyn is a witch fleeing persecution from her religious brother. She hires the Viking, Eirik, to save her. His price is to remove a love spell placed upon him. Hard to do when even she is attracted by the spell.
>This story is very short, but there is a lot of action. The paranormal is real, so the existence of witches and mermaids aren't surprising. Little Mermaids they are not! Sven is Eirik's right hand man and for the short time we meet him, he makes an impression.
>The actual reversal spell goes way easier than I would have expected, but the thought of a huge alpha Viking in drag is a funny one. All in all, this was an exciting, quick, funny read. There really wasn't a lot of time for the romance to develop fully, but it was sweet.
>This book is recommended for a young adult (14+) audience.
February 20, 2015
Branwyn O’Tyre's brother is on his way to get her, she is accused of being a witch. Before he can get to her she drinks a potion, she only sees one other customer in the pub and he appears to be pretty in his cups.
Eirik is a Viking and has been looking for Branwyn to help him, as is happens she offers to hire him to keep her safe from her brother.
After they board his ship she finds out he reason he needs her help.
Can she do what Eirik needs her to do, and what kind of a life will she have once she is no longer indebted to him?
You need to read the book to get the answers to that!
I would not mind seeing more from these characters. Lots of twists and turns through out the book.
Eirik is a Viking and has been looking for Branwyn to help him, as is happens she offers to hire him to keep her safe from her brother.
After they board his ship she finds out he reason he needs her help.
Can she do what Eirik needs her to do, and what kind of a life will she have once she is no longer indebted to him?
You need to read the book to get the answers to that!
I would not mind seeing more from these characters. Lots of twists and turns through out the book.
March 12, 2015
I have read Jo Grafford's Breaking Ties and really enjoyed it. It was a clean read. When I heard she wrote a book about vikings, I couldn't wait to read it. When I saw the cover, I have to admit I was a little nervous about whether or not it would be as clean as Breaking Ties. That being said, Viking for Hire was a pretty clean read. I really enjoyed the story. It took no time to read it and I hope to see these characters again in another book someday. I love Jo's writing. She's really a talented author.
5 stars.
5 stars.
April 13, 2015
THOROUGHLY enjoyed Jo Grafford's story about Eirik and Bronwyn, two striking characters who absolutely came to life from the first page. What I enjoyed most was the tight focus on the characters' developing feelings, the growth of which felt natural and genuine and utterly compelling. I have little tolerance for flowery run-on prose so the tight writing and quick pace made for a gripping read all round.
This is the fourth story of Jo's I've read, and cannot recommend her work highly enough - rock solid storytelling with beautifully strong and charismatic heroines. Love 'em!
This is the fourth story of Jo's I've read, and cannot recommend her work highly enough - rock solid storytelling with beautifully strong and charismatic heroines. Love 'em!
January 17, 2016
This is a very bewitching tale! It is a great blend of love, witchcraft, curses and a hot Viking!
Eirik and Branwyn have a wonderful chemistry that really keeps the reader coming back for more. The interaction between the characters is very special and creative.
This is a short novella, perfect for a one sitting read, that leaves the reader wanting more!!
Eirik and Branwyn have a wonderful chemistry that really keeps the reader coming back for more. The interaction between the characters is very special and creative.
This is a short novella, perfect for a one sitting read, that leaves the reader wanting more!!
May 15, 2015
This story has a little bit of everything!
Magic, action, mystery, deceit, love. I was pleasantly surprised to find all of these elements written into this story!
I was intrigued from the beginning because the hero, Erik, suffered from a curse that I'm sure most men would call a blessing. The adventure that ensued in hopes of ridding him of that curse had me eagerly turning the virtual pages!
I thought the ending was perfect. This is a kissing-only romance, but in my opinion, the story didn't need the steamy stuff to make it good. I just wish the book was longer, because I would have LOVED to keep reading it!!!
***I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
Magic, action, mystery, deceit, love. I was pleasantly surprised to find all of these elements written into this story!
I was intrigued from the beginning because the hero, Erik, suffered from a curse that I'm sure most men would call a blessing. The adventure that ensued in hopes of ridding him of that curse had me eagerly turning the virtual pages!
I thought the ending was perfect. This is a kissing-only romance, but in my opinion, the story didn't need the steamy stuff to make it good. I just wish the book was longer, because I would have LOVED to keep reading it!!!
***I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
May 19, 2015
Viking for Hire is a light fun read that you finish in one seating. This page turner has witches, mermaids, curses, potions, wands and all that is magic! Branwyn, or protagonist, plays a true heroine to this story, very confident and clever.
I really enjoyed the atmosphere the author has created and how she chose to keep it real even tough fantasy is there, makes all the difference! I like this funny approach. Eirik and Branwyn had an immediate connection, it should have been better explored and described- I felt a lack of emotional connection, as much of their chemistry was only physical.
Take a few hours to read this short novel, you’ll be immersed!
I really enjoyed the atmosphere the author has created and how she chose to keep it real even tough fantasy is there, makes all the difference! I like this funny approach. Eirik and Branwyn had an immediate connection, it should have been better explored and described- I felt a lack of emotional connection, as much of their chemistry was only physical.
Take a few hours to read this short novel, you’ll be immersed!
March 10, 2015
A decadent little morsel of a sexy read!
This is a one-sitting read that you’re not going to want to put down until you finish every delicious word! There were enough twists to keep me guessing, and the chemistry between the hero and heroine sizzled off the pages.
Branwyn and Eirik were hot together! Branwyn was resourceful and strong. The hunky Eirik is one Viking I’d definitely hire. And I’m keeping my fingers crossed for a story for Sven.
This is a one-sitting read that you’re not going to want to put down until you finish every delicious word! There were enough twists to keep me guessing, and the chemistry between the hero and heroine sizzled off the pages.
Branwyn and Eirik were hot together! Branwyn was resourceful and strong. The hunky Eirik is one Viking I’d definitely hire. And I’m keeping my fingers crossed for a story for Sven.
March 10, 2015
A decadent little morsel of a sexy read!
This is a one-sitting read that you’re not going to want to put down until you finish every delicious word! There were enough twists to keep me guessing, and the chemistry between the hero and heroine sizzled off the pages.
Branwyn and Eirik were hot together! Branwyn was resourceful and strong. The hunky Eirik is one Viking I’d definitely hire. And I’m keeping my fingers crossed for a story for Sven.
This is a one-sitting read that you’re not going to want to put down until you finish every delicious word! There were enough twists to keep me guessing, and the chemistry between the hero and heroine sizzled off the pages.
Branwyn and Eirik were hot together! Branwyn was resourceful and strong. The hunky Eirik is one Viking I’d definitely hire. And I’m keeping my fingers crossed for a story for Sven.
March 14, 2015
My first Viking read
This was my first Viking/witch read and I truly enjoyed it.
I like that it has a storyline and not all about sex and sexual tension. Great storyline and I look forward to reading more from this author.
This was my first Viking/witch read and I truly enjoyed it.
I like that it has a storyline and not all about sex and sexual tension. Great storyline and I look forward to reading more from this author.
April 24, 2015
Fabulous story!
This story was amazing! The author did a fantastic job of pulling me in from page 1 and never letting me go! It was exciting, well written, with unforgettable characters. I hope to see more of the Vikings and their witch.
This story was amazing! The author did a fantastic job of pulling me in from page 1 and never letting me go! It was exciting, well written, with unforgettable characters. I hope to see more of the Vikings and their witch.
May 28, 2015
This is a story I would not hesitate to read again!
“I am not a witch! I am a healer,” she cried. “There is a world of difference between the two."
“Call yourself whatever you will, Branwyn. Your powers do not scare me. In truth, I sought you out a-purpose in the hopes you would heal me from the effects of a spell. ‘Twas cast on me by a wretched sorceress when I refused her…ah…advances.”
Fearing another trap, Branwyn stared at the ground. “Methinks you mistake me for another. I am naught but a lowly healer, cast off by an overzealous brother in a fit of religious fervor. Wh-why do you ask me such things, m’lord?”
“Very well,” Eirik snapped and pocketed her wand. “If you wish to indulge in games, at least choose one that gives me equal pleasure. By Thor, I’ve been long without a woman.” He closed the distance between them and hauled her into his lap.”
VIKING FOR HIRE by Jo Grafford was an excellent, quick, wonderfully witchy historical romance! I've been going thru witch withdrawal since reading PROTECTING HIS WITCH and this little treasure was exactly what the doctor ordered to remedy what ailed me! I am so thrilled to have come upon it. It is the first book I've ever read by Jo but it certainly won't be the last as I am resolved to check out more of her works soon.
VIKING FOR HIRE was both romantic and action-riddled, replete with Viking pirates, mermaids, evil sorceresses, wolves and witches! I love fairy tales and this was a fast-paced magical treat without a single dull moment. I can honestly say that my attention never wavered from the first scene to the last. As to the heat level, there was some kissing but no hanky panky - so this book is appropriate for young adults on up.
My full review is posted at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Check it out here: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
Generally, such a short story wouldn't rate 5 Wine Glasses... but this one deserves it!
5 Wine Glasses!
“I am not a witch! I am a healer,” she cried. “There is a world of difference between the two."
“Call yourself whatever you will, Branwyn. Your powers do not scare me. In truth, I sought you out a-purpose in the hopes you would heal me from the effects of a spell. ‘Twas cast on me by a wretched sorceress when I refused her…ah…advances.”
Fearing another trap, Branwyn stared at the ground. “Methinks you mistake me for another. I am naught but a lowly healer, cast off by an overzealous brother in a fit of religious fervor. Wh-why do you ask me such things, m’lord?”
“Very well,” Eirik snapped and pocketed her wand. “If you wish to indulge in games, at least choose one that gives me equal pleasure. By Thor, I’ve been long without a woman.” He closed the distance between them and hauled her into his lap.”
VIKING FOR HIRE by Jo Grafford was an excellent, quick, wonderfully witchy historical romance! I've been going thru witch withdrawal since reading PROTECTING HIS WITCH and this little treasure was exactly what the doctor ordered to remedy what ailed me! I am so thrilled to have come upon it. It is the first book I've ever read by Jo but it certainly won't be the last as I am resolved to check out more of her works soon.
VIKING FOR HIRE was both romantic and action-riddled, replete with Viking pirates, mermaids, evil sorceresses, wolves and witches! I love fairy tales and this was a fast-paced magical treat without a single dull moment. I can honestly say that my attention never wavered from the first scene to the last. As to the heat level, there was some kissing but no hanky panky - so this book is appropriate for young adults on up.
My full review is posted at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Check it out here: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
Generally, such a short story wouldn't rate 5 Wine Glasses... but this one deserves it!
5 Wine Glasses!
July 12, 2015
A Review of Viking For Hire by Jo Grafford
Short and to the point - 5 stars
This was my first book by Jo and although it was short, it was really good. The characters were very entertaining, but I wish the backstory for Branwyn had been fleshed out a little more.
Branwyn is a healer and her half-brother, claiming to be in desperate need of a healing, has insisted on meeting her at the Silver Swan, a tavern in a remote location, in the middle of the night. Sensing this is a trap and that he plans to have her arrested for practicing witchcraft, she mixes a potion of protection and drinks it before he arrives.
Eirik is a Viking sea captain at the same tavern, pretending to be passed out at a corner table, but he witnesses her magic and offers her help to get away from her brother. In exchange, he wants her to reverse a curse that was placed on him. One touch of his hand and she is drawn to him, which is part of the curse, but she agrees to hire him to get her out of Exeter.
I happen to love historical romances and when you add in the mystical mermaids, evil sorceresses and all the excitement these two run into, this short book gives a good taste of what I like. This is a clean story, so it is safe for everyone to read. Definitely recommend it to those that enjoy a little fantasy.
Short and to the point - 5 stars
This was my first book by Jo and although it was short, it was really good. The characters were very entertaining, but I wish the backstory for Branwyn had been fleshed out a little more.
Branwyn is a healer and her half-brother, claiming to be in desperate need of a healing, has insisted on meeting her at the Silver Swan, a tavern in a remote location, in the middle of the night. Sensing this is a trap and that he plans to have her arrested for practicing witchcraft, she mixes a potion of protection and drinks it before he arrives.
Eirik is a Viking sea captain at the same tavern, pretending to be passed out at a corner table, but he witnesses her magic and offers her help to get away from her brother. In exchange, he wants her to reverse a curse that was placed on him. One touch of his hand and she is drawn to him, which is part of the curse, but she agrees to hire him to get her out of Exeter.
I happen to love historical romances and when you add in the mystical mermaids, evil sorceresses and all the excitement these two run into, this short book gives a good taste of what I like. This is a clean story, so it is safe for everyone to read. Definitely recommend it to those that enjoy a little fantasy.
May 24, 2015
My Thoughts: I’ve read two other books from this author which I absolutely loved. Breaking Ties and Trail of Crosses, both from the Lost Colony Series based on a historical event. So I was expecting much the same on this one, but it surprised me.
Her story setting has Eirik, a Viking, offering to aid Branwyn, in protection against her religious brother ready to accuse her of witchery. As it happened Eirik was looking for this particular witch, for his crew had heard about this woman and he was in great need of her services. He had a curse to reverse. Eirik carried her off from the tavern when he saved from her brother. Follows an amusing scene with her brother and his men chasing her through the town to the ship dock.
Branwyn finally admitted she had powers and could help Eirik. They must seek some mistletoe for her potion to cure Eirik from a curse a sorceress, from spite, bestowed on him. Even though Branwyn was saved from her brother’s over zealous views, she almost lost her life on the sea when attacked by mermaids on their way to New Dorset.
This light and quick-paced read amused with good and evil witches, mermaids, a powerful attraction between Branwyn and her Viking and an exciting, dangerous trip on the seas in a Viking ship.
Her story setting has Eirik, a Viking, offering to aid Branwyn, in protection against her religious brother ready to accuse her of witchery. As it happened Eirik was looking for this particular witch, for his crew had heard about this woman and he was in great need of her services. He had a curse to reverse. Eirik carried her off from the tavern when he saved from her brother. Follows an amusing scene with her brother and his men chasing her through the town to the ship dock.
Branwyn finally admitted she had powers and could help Eirik. They must seek some mistletoe for her potion to cure Eirik from a curse a sorceress, from spite, bestowed on him. Even though Branwyn was saved from her brother’s over zealous views, she almost lost her life on the sea when attacked by mermaids on their way to New Dorset.
This light and quick-paced read amused with good and evil witches, mermaids, a powerful attraction between Branwyn and her Viking and an exciting, dangerous trip on the seas in a Viking ship.
May 8, 2015
3.5 stars
“Viking for Hire” by Jo Grafford is a historical fantasy romance novella that gives a glimpse of the challenges faced by Branwyn O’Tyre, who is being persecuted by her brother for the practice of witchcraft and is rescued by the irresistible Eirik, Jarl of New Dorset. This manly Viking has been cursed and Branwyn must decide whether she can trust him enough to reveal her abilities and, more importantly, whether she has enough power to protect him and his men from all of the dangers that they face.
There is a nice combination of mythology and magic in this story that provides a fun read. I’d like to know a little more about the characters as I wasn’t quite invested in their struggle and would have liked a little more background but there is an entertaining mélange of elements that keeps the story moving along. This is a quick light read that will appeal to lovers of fantasy and Vikings.
“Viking for Hire” by Jo Grafford is a historical fantasy romance novella that gives a glimpse of the challenges faced by Branwyn O’Tyre, who is being persecuted by her brother for the practice of witchcraft and is rescued by the irresistible Eirik, Jarl of New Dorset. This manly Viking has been cursed and Branwyn must decide whether she can trust him enough to reveal her abilities and, more importantly, whether she has enough power to protect him and his men from all of the dangers that they face.
There is a nice combination of mythology and magic in this story that provides a fun read. I’d like to know a little more about the characters as I wasn’t quite invested in their struggle and would have liked a little more background but there is an entertaining mélange of elements that keeps the story moving along. This is a quick light read that will appeal to lovers of fantasy and Vikings.
May 15, 2015
This story has a little bit of everything!Magic, action, mystery, deceit, love. I was pleasantly surprised to find all of these elements written into this story!I was intrigued from the beginning because the hero, Erik, suffered from a curse that I'm sure most men would call a blessing. The adventure that ensued in hopes of ridding him of that curse had me eagerly turning the virtual pages!I thought the ending was perfect. This is a kissing-only romance, but in my opinion, the story didn't need the steamy stuff to make it good. I just wish the book was longer, because I would have LOVED to keep reading it!!!***I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
May 11, 2015
2.5 stars / 1 flame.
This was a quick medieval short story taking place during the 11th Century during the time of William the Conquerer. It was somewhat entertaining, if you overlook the historical inaccuracies in the weapons (a pistol???) and dress (pinafore?). Hand canons were not invented until much later, and the typical dress for a woman during the time would have been a belted tunic or bliaut. Other than that, it was a very quick read involving vikings, witches, and romance.
This was a quick medieval short story taking place during the 11th Century during the time of William the Conquerer. It was somewhat entertaining, if you overlook the historical inaccuracies in the weapons (a pistol???) and dress (pinafore?). Hand canons were not invented until much later, and the typical dress for a woman during the time would have been a belted tunic or bliaut. Other than that, it was a very quick read involving vikings, witches, and romance.
April 10, 2015
***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***
It's a cute little medieval fantasy romance, but it's got some odd elements- like a constable who wields a pistol and vikings using British naval slang and having Chinese plunder on their ship - but it's light and fun to read, even got some old fashioned slapstick humor tossed in and a bit of a twist to the story. A good, entertaining coffee read.
It's a cute little medieval fantasy romance, but it's got some odd elements- like a constable who wields a pistol and vikings using British naval slang and having Chinese plunder on their ship - but it's light and fun to read, even got some old fashioned slapstick humor tossed in and a bit of a twist to the story. A good, entertaining coffee read.
February 2, 2018
Léger. Bien construit. Magie, vengeance. 1er d'une série.
September 5, 2018
Viking
I loved this story, I recommend everyone to read this book. I look forward to reading more of her books . Kattie
I loved this story, I recommend everyone to read this book. I look forward to reading more of her books . Kattie
October 14, 2021
Finished the book and can't locate the rest of the series.
June 11, 2016
Viking For Hire is my first book by Jo Grafford. Ms Grafford has delivered a well written book. Viking For Hire is a quick read, a perfect choice for those with limited time for reading. This short story is packed full of fantastic characters, suspense, action and spice. Branwyn and Eirik's tale is a paranormal romance lover's dream book. I enjoyed reading Viking For Hire and look forward to reading more from Jo Grafford in the future. Viking For Hire is book 1 of the Viking Saga Series and can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
July 30, 2015
Delightful short story about a "healer" being accused of practicing witchcraft by her religious zealot brother who has come to arrest her. Handsome Viking agrees to save her from from her predicament in exchange for her to remove the curse an evil sorceress has placed on him.
Colorful characters, fast paced story line, and adventure on the high seas...eagerly awaiting the next book in the Vikings Saga!!
Colorful characters, fast paced story line, and adventure on the high seas...eagerly awaiting the next book in the Vikings Saga!!
August 11, 2015
I'm a sucker for just enough magic to make insta-love believable. Throw in authentic dialogue, characters I can empathize with, a little steamy, and just enough humor to make me snicker, and you've got me hooked.
If you're in the mood for a quick, thoroughly enjoyable read, I definitely recommend VfH!
If you're in the mood for a quick, thoroughly enjoyable read, I definitely recommend VfH!
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