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Viking I #10
Biraz Daha Yaklaş
New York Times çok satanlar yazarı Sandra Hill’in eğlenceli, çekici, cesur tarihi aşk romanlarının hepsi ayrı bir şölen ve Viking hikâyelerini ondan daha iyi anlatan yok. Bir yanda eşini yeni kaybeden ve küçük bir bebekle yapayalnız kalan güçlü, sert Viking Sidroc, diğer yanda aradığı talibi bulamayan cesur Prenses Drifa… Bu ikilinin yolculuğu ters giden bir ilk tanışmadan yıllar sonra Bizans’ın tehlikeli dünyasına uğrayacak ve açıklanmayan sırların ağırlığını taşıyarak aşkın, tutkunun tam kalbine kadar inecek. Bir yanda mantık, bir yanda arzu, bir yanda tehlike, bir yanda huzurun vaadi… Nereye gideceklerini sadece Prenses Drifa ile Viking savaşçı Sidroc seçecek, gerisi hikâye.
“Sandra Hill’in romanları hep zeki, ateşli ve eğlenceli maceralar anlatıyor.”
-Christine Feehan-
“Sandra Hill hem kahkaha attıran hem de kalbe dokunan hikâyeler yazıyor.”
-Susan Wiggs-
“Sandra Hill’in romanları hep zeki, ateşli ve eğlenceli maceralar anlatıyor.”
-Christine Feehan-
“Sandra Hill hem kahkaha attıran hem de kalbe dokunan hikâyeler yazıyor.”
-Susan Wiggs-
342 pages, Paperback
First published September 27, 2011
51 people are currently reading
768 people want to read
About the author
Sandra Hill
92 books1,313 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Sandra Hill is a graduate of Penn State and worked for more than 10 years as a features writer and education editor for publications in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Writing about serious issues taught her the merits of seeking the lighter side of even the darkest stories. She is the wife of a stockbroker and the mother of four sons.
This biography was provided by the author or their representative.
Sandra Hill is a graduate of Penn State and worked for more than 10 years as a features writer and education editor for publications in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Writing about serious issues taught her the merits of seeking the lighter side of even the darkest stories. She is the wife of a stockbroker and the mother of four sons.
This biography was provided by the author or their representative.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
October 2, 2011
Originally posted at: http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.c...
An arrogant lout and an independent princess cross words and pots which set the stage for a long and roundabout romance plagued with mishaps, kidnappings, lustsome thoughts and naughty shenanigans.
Such is the final story of the last unmarried princess in King Thorvald’s household, Drifa. She’s a woman of quick temper, deep passions and has a fanatic enthusiasm for all plants green, flowered and tall. That small hobby of hers gets her into more trouble than she believed possible. Because Drifa has been allowed to make her own decisions and get her way at home, it’s given her a false sense of security and safety. She comes across as a woman who knows what’s going on but even when she’s hit by the figurative wall of bricks, she remains inured from the thought of possible harm to her. She’s a king’s daughter, what could possibly happen? She accepts the need to be cautious in name only and goes off to do what she wants to do anyway. I knew she was going to lead the hero on a merry chase and I was right.
The hero, Sidroc, at first doesn’t seem like a hero at all, but a manipulative jerk. Only as I read did I find out this man has undiscovered emotional depths hidden behind a veneer of lust – for both war and women. He’s not what he seems at all but the conflict comes from Drifa overhearing a conversation that was meant for another man’s ears only. What a man does when he thinks all is lost shows his inner character. Sidroc is not a quitter, nor a shallow man. He is a man of loyalty, valor and integrity, even when he doesn’t want to be. He also has a liking for adventurous sex and he uses that as a clever ploy to get Drifa to do what he wants her to do. The fun part comes when the tables are turned and the heroine ends up getting him to do what she wants. The best part, he doesn’t even know it. If that sounds ambiguous, it is. Only by experiencing the book will a reader understand just how twisted that gets.
Ms. Hill is known for her knee-slapping humor and clever play on words during the telling of her romance tales. Readers will find that the asides of inner dialogue used in juxtaposition with what’s actually being said or done is still an effective and fun technique that the author used to good effect. However, the loud guffaws never came. I chortled a few times, giggled at others but my knees were in no danger of being tormented this time around. The final book seemed to have treated the characters in a gentler fashion. I liked and enjoyed the book, but didn’t fall in love with it. Alas, all the loving is between Sidroc and Drifa.
As much as I liked Drifa, she annoyed me too. She blithely ignored the battle-seasoned warriors at her side when they warned her, repeatedly. I understand she had a passion for plants, verging on obsessive, but that tunnel vision of hers that she persisted in indulging in drove me nuts. Frankly, there were a few moments where I’d classify her character as too stupid to live. Of course, if she wasn’t, then a lot of the plot conflict would have disappeared and I wouldn’t have been treated to the interesting encounter in the Arab lands. The information that she came back with was put to good use by leading Sidroc around by his hormones. Ms. Hill certainly explored some creative use of scarves and marble.
The story included a tableau of secondary characters that interacted well with the hero and heroine. Many were from past books and a few were special to this book alone. I can assure readers that The Norse King’s Daughter is a complete standalone book. The story focuses completely on the hero and heroine and all the other characters either affect them or support them. Runa is a cutie. She shows up at strategic points in the story that showcased the best in the heroine and hero. However, Sidroc’s father is a mean old skunk and the hero finally got to stand up to him, with a little help from his friends. Considering what I learned about that man and his household, it was a wonderful little scene to read. King Thorvald is still a riot of a character and I always giggle when he refers to the benefit of head drilling. He’s a fun guy, if a bit bloodthirsty. A perfect father for Drifa.
The Norse King’s Daughter is a vastly entertaining and light- hearted read. It has a smattering of suspenseful drama to spice up the conflict and the dialogue was always true to character. The fast paced verbal exchanges between Drifa and Sidroc were usually amusing and always interesting. The happily ever after, when it finally happened, was very sweet, adorable and had me believing that their marriage was going to be a strong and happy one – camel dung notwithstanding. I’m glad I got to read this story and Ms. Hill remains one of my favorite authors.
An arrogant lout and an independent princess cross words and pots which set the stage for a long and roundabout romance plagued with mishaps, kidnappings, lustsome thoughts and naughty shenanigans.
Such is the final story of the last unmarried princess in King Thorvald’s household, Drifa. She’s a woman of quick temper, deep passions and has a fanatic enthusiasm for all plants green, flowered and tall. That small hobby of hers gets her into more trouble than she believed possible. Because Drifa has been allowed to make her own decisions and get her way at home, it’s given her a false sense of security and safety. She comes across as a woman who knows what’s going on but even when she’s hit by the figurative wall of bricks, she remains inured from the thought of possible harm to her. She’s a king’s daughter, what could possibly happen? She accepts the need to be cautious in name only and goes off to do what she wants to do anyway. I knew she was going to lead the hero on a merry chase and I was right.
The hero, Sidroc, at first doesn’t seem like a hero at all, but a manipulative jerk. Only as I read did I find out this man has undiscovered emotional depths hidden behind a veneer of lust – for both war and women. He’s not what he seems at all but the conflict comes from Drifa overhearing a conversation that was meant for another man’s ears only. What a man does when he thinks all is lost shows his inner character. Sidroc is not a quitter, nor a shallow man. He is a man of loyalty, valor and integrity, even when he doesn’t want to be. He also has a liking for adventurous sex and he uses that as a clever ploy to get Drifa to do what he wants her to do. The fun part comes when the tables are turned and the heroine ends up getting him to do what she wants. The best part, he doesn’t even know it. If that sounds ambiguous, it is. Only by experiencing the book will a reader understand just how twisted that gets.
Ms. Hill is known for her knee-slapping humor and clever play on words during the telling of her romance tales. Readers will find that the asides of inner dialogue used in juxtaposition with what’s actually being said or done is still an effective and fun technique that the author used to good effect. However, the loud guffaws never came. I chortled a few times, giggled at others but my knees were in no danger of being tormented this time around. The final book seemed to have treated the characters in a gentler fashion. I liked and enjoyed the book, but didn’t fall in love with it. Alas, all the loving is between Sidroc and Drifa.
As much as I liked Drifa, she annoyed me too. She blithely ignored the battle-seasoned warriors at her side when they warned her, repeatedly. I understand she had a passion for plants, verging on obsessive, but that tunnel vision of hers that she persisted in indulging in drove me nuts. Frankly, there were a few moments where I’d classify her character as too stupid to live. Of course, if she wasn’t, then a lot of the plot conflict would have disappeared and I wouldn’t have been treated to the interesting encounter in the Arab lands. The information that she came back with was put to good use by leading Sidroc around by his hormones. Ms. Hill certainly explored some creative use of scarves and marble.
The story included a tableau of secondary characters that interacted well with the hero and heroine. Many were from past books and a few were special to this book alone. I can assure readers that The Norse King’s Daughter is a complete standalone book. The story focuses completely on the hero and heroine and all the other characters either affect them or support them. Runa is a cutie. She shows up at strategic points in the story that showcased the best in the heroine and hero. However, Sidroc’s father is a mean old skunk and the hero finally got to stand up to him, with a little help from his friends. Considering what I learned about that man and his household, it was a wonderful little scene to read. King Thorvald is still a riot of a character and I always giggle when he refers to the benefit of head drilling. He’s a fun guy, if a bit bloodthirsty. A perfect father for Drifa.
The Norse King’s Daughter is a vastly entertaining and light- hearted read. It has a smattering of suspenseful drama to spice up the conflict and the dialogue was always true to character. The fast paced verbal exchanges between Drifa and Sidroc were usually amusing and always interesting. The happily ever after, when it finally happened, was very sweet, adorable and had me believing that their marriage was going to be a strong and happy one – camel dung notwithstanding. I’m glad I got to read this story and Ms. Hill remains one of my favorite authors.
February 10, 2020
4 and 1/2 Stars! Fanciful yet based on good research…a Viking Adventure!
This is the story of King Thoval’s (a Norse king) last unmarried daughter, Drifa, and Sidroc Guntersson, a Viking warrior, who needs a wife and a mother for his infant daughter left him when his wife died. Unfortunately, Sidroc never told Drifa of his need for a mother for his babe as he courted her. When she found out, she was less than pleased and bashed him on the head. When he awakes, he learns his daughter has disappeared and fears she is dead. Now, years later, Sidroc and Drifa are reunited in Miklagard where Drifa has come to study flowers. Sidroc is one of an elite guard who is assigned to Drifa. He means to have his revenge.
Hill weaves her solid research into her fanciful story, presenting the Vikings’ way of life and the great city of Miklagard (the Viking name for Constantinople) in a realistic manner. Yet it is still a fanciful, often humorous tale. The sex is pretty graphic.
Hill will draw you into the characters’ lives. Though I soon realized this was part of a series, it can still be enjoyed as a stand-alone. In fact, Hill has eleven books in her Viking series, all worthy reads and some as much fantasy as historical.
This is the story of King Thoval’s (a Norse king) last unmarried daughter, Drifa, and Sidroc Guntersson, a Viking warrior, who needs a wife and a mother for his infant daughter left him when his wife died. Unfortunately, Sidroc never told Drifa of his need for a mother for his babe as he courted her. When she found out, she was less than pleased and bashed him on the head. When he awakes, he learns his daughter has disappeared and fears she is dead. Now, years later, Sidroc and Drifa are reunited in Miklagard where Drifa has come to study flowers. Sidroc is one of an elite guard who is assigned to Drifa. He means to have his revenge.
Hill weaves her solid research into her fanciful story, presenting the Vikings’ way of life and the great city of Miklagard (the Viking name for Constantinople) in a realistic manner. Yet it is still a fanciful, often humorous tale. The sex is pretty graphic.
Hill will draw you into the characters’ lives. Though I soon realized this was part of a series, it can still be enjoyed as a stand-alone. In fact, Hill has eleven books in her Viking series, all worthy reads and some as much fantasy as historical.
May 20, 2017
Neden onuncu kitaptan başlandığını pek anlamasamda iskoçlardan sonra okumayı sevdiğim milletlerden biride vikingler.Eğlenceli bir kitaptı.Özellikle birbirlerine ettikleri ilginç hakaretler baya yaratıcı olmuş.Devamı da çıkar umarım.Hatta serinin ilk kitabından başlayarak devamının gelmesini isterim.
June 12, 2017
Garip bir romandı, tam anlamıyla sevip sevmediğimden emin değilim. Vikingleri aslında baya severim ama tabirler veya çeviri yüzünden sanki bir şeyler eksik gibiydi. Koskoca Valkyrie'ler Valkür olmuş onu da beğenmedim ne o öyle eküri gibi. Bazı şeyleri de çevirmemeli, hepsi vikipedinin suçu muhtemelen. Karakterler de eh işteydi, bilmiyorum okurken çok da dalamadığım bir kitap oldu.
July 6, 2017
Vikingler işin içine girdiği zaman aslında kötü olmaz diye düşünüyorsunuz o kitabın.
Ama bu maalesef öyleydi.
Bir türlü hikayenin içine giremedim.
Çünkü hikaye bana çok üstünkörü ve hızlı geldi.
Ama bu maalesef öyleydi.
Bir türlü hikayenin içine giremedim.
Çünkü hikaye bana çok üstünkörü ve hızlı geldi.
October 6, 2011
I had so much fun reading this book!
The Norse King's Daughter is written with viking expressions and slang, which is a bit weird at first but you after a few characters you're immersed into their world and forget if you ever had any difficulties with it. I fell in love with the main couple and how their story was told. The journey they go through and all the years that pass between them only makes the plot stronger, however, the heroine had a somewhat too easy surrender in my opinion. The pacing was simply perfect and some of the detailed scenes about plants and flowers were never boring! I also liked how the author described the setting.
I hope we have a book about Ianthe and her HEA, but I have a fair hint about what will happen to her next. I'll absolutely read the previous books of this series as Sandra Hill's writing has captivated me.
Full ratings: http://readingromances.wordpress.com/...
The Norse King's Daughter is written with viking expressions and slang, which is a bit weird at first but you after a few characters you're immersed into their world and forget if you ever had any difficulties with it. I fell in love with the main couple and how their story was told. The journey they go through and all the years that pass between them only makes the plot stronger, however, the heroine had a somewhat too easy surrender in my opinion. The pacing was simply perfect and some of the detailed scenes about plants and flowers were never boring! I also liked how the author described the setting.
I hope we have a book about Ianthe and her HEA, but I have a fair hint about what will happen to her next. I'll absolutely read the previous books of this series as Sandra Hill's writing has captivated me.
Full ratings: http://readingromances.wordpress.com/...
November 25, 2011
THE NORSE KING'S DAUGHTER by Sandra Hill is an exciting Viking/ historical romance set in the Dark Ages. This is the story of King Thovald's(Norse King) last unmarried daughter,Drifa and Sidroc Guntersson,a Viking warrior,who needs a wife and mother for his infant daughter. "The Norse King's Daughter" is a fast paced story full of action,adventure,adventurous sex,sexual tension,kidnapping,mishaps, secrets,naughty thoughts,misunderstandings,romance,and love. "The Norse King's Daughter" is the story of an independent princess and her arrogant Viking warrior,their struggles with their feelings,and finding true love. This is a quick,.fun,lighthearted read with entertaining characters and an fun plot. A must read for anyone who enjoys historical, romance,Vikings,and a story with adventure and love. Received for review from the publisher and Net Galley. Details can be found at Avon,an imprint of Harper Collins and My Book Addiction Reviews.
January 2, 2015
Good book. I always love Sandra Hill's Viking tales -- the characters are always so colorful. In the beginning Sidroc comes to ask for Drifa's hand in marriage. She is ready to say yes until she overhears him make some obnoxious remarks, so she hits him over the head with a pitcher and knocks him out. When he come to, six weeks later, she is gone so he leaves. Five years later they meet again. He is ready for some revenge, and plans to use her passion to get it. When she is kidnapped he rides to the rescue. As time goes on, they develop feelings for each other, but neither will admit it. I love the back and forth dialog of the two as they work through their issues. I also like the secondary characters, and seeing those from earlier books.
July 4, 2017
Bence serinin 11. Kitabını çıkarsaydınız daha iyi olurdu . En azından seriyi bitirdik diyebilirsiniz Epsilon Yayınevi.. sevmedim , eğer aldıysanız çok tutmayın okuyun gitsin 😂
December 31, 2012
{Notes}
*[insert big ole happy sigh] This is exactly what I needed. As much as I love good quality literature, I will always have a special place in my heart for cheesy romance novels. Historical romances are a particular weakness for me, and I was delighted to stumble across a handful of Viking romances at my library's free paperback rack. I can't believe I've never read anything of this particular genre before! I am now and addict.
*Sandra Hill is a very entertaining romance author. Her characters are strong and witty, and play off of one another very well. The only qualms I had were the slips on modern slang (for the most part, the language sounds at least mostly authentic), and the "scene tags", which I found totally unnecessary. They added nothing to the plot, and were too modern.
*The plot was kind of...all over the place, but in a funny way. Princess Drifa and Sidroc were betrothed years ago, but split up over a few misunderstandings and a very justified pottery assault. Years later, Drifa is still unmarried, and is on her way to Byzantium for a much-needed vacation and opportunity to study gardening. Imagine her surprise when, after years of looking for him, Sidroc is not dead! He is, however, full of all kinds of revenge plots. After a few surprising encounters, revealed secrets, and a harrowing rescue, all is set right in the end. Unrealistic at moments, but entertaining to the max, "The Norse King's Daughter" is probably one of my favorite romance novel reads to date.
*Princess Drifa, our heroine, is a bit confusing to me. I like her strange passion for gardening, her disregard for needing a marriage to validate her, and her fiery wit. She's incredibly independent and passionate, and she plays against Sidroc in a very funny way. However, a lot of her decision making left me a little confused. Her decision not to reveal "the big secret" from the beginning baffled me, and her complete lack of wanting to take her protectors' advice was just...yeah. At times, I wanted to hit her over the head with a piece of pottery. But, without her lack of sense, a majority of the novel wouldn't have happened, so I guess I can make a small concession.
*Sidroc, our hero, is just a big ole lusty brute. He seems to be made of nothing but arrogance and a desire to satisfy his own needs, but underneath it all, you learn he just has some issues. Growing up in a cold and unloving environment, he fears he'll turn into his father in regards to a wife or children, so he makes an effort not to make an attachment. But when a woman as infuriating as Drifa comes around, he just can't help but fall. She matches him wit for wit, and ever so slowly, he lets himself go. I did enjoy Sidroc's roguish nature, and his overwhelming since of masculinity. Seeing his character unfold was a nice reading experience as well, not to mention the hilarity of his taunting and teasing.
*The secondary characters seemed well developed and enjoyable, which is an unusual find. I found myself really not minding when the focus wasn't solely on the two main characters. From Sidroc's previous mistress, Ianthe, to members of the guard like Ivar, I thoroughly enjoyed every character.
*And the best part, right? The romance! Oh wow did this one revitalize my guilty love of the genre! It sizzled, it sparked! It follows my favorite cliche pattern of hate that slowly reshapes itself into love. Drifa and Sidroc butt heads at every moment, but they just can't seem to resist one another. The love scenes are hoooot, so beware of burning your hands. ;D
*All in all, this was an incredibly enjoyable light read, even with it's smattering of ridiculousness. I will definitely, definitely be picking up more of Sandra Hill's Viking novels. She has definitely made a fan out of me. I only fear the bar may have been set too high!
*[insert big ole happy sigh] This is exactly what I needed. As much as I love good quality literature, I will always have a special place in my heart for cheesy romance novels. Historical romances are a particular weakness for me, and I was delighted to stumble across a handful of Viking romances at my library's free paperback rack. I can't believe I've never read anything of this particular genre before! I am now and addict.
*Sandra Hill is a very entertaining romance author. Her characters are strong and witty, and play off of one another very well. The only qualms I had were the slips on modern slang (for the most part, the language sounds at least mostly authentic), and the "scene tags", which I found totally unnecessary. They added nothing to the plot, and were too modern.
*The plot was kind of...all over the place, but in a funny way. Princess Drifa and Sidroc were betrothed years ago, but split up over a few misunderstandings and a very justified pottery assault. Years later, Drifa is still unmarried, and is on her way to Byzantium for a much-needed vacation and opportunity to study gardening. Imagine her surprise when, after years of looking for him, Sidroc is not dead! He is, however, full of all kinds of revenge plots. After a few surprising encounters, revealed secrets, and a harrowing rescue, all is set right in the end. Unrealistic at moments, but entertaining to the max, "The Norse King's Daughter" is probably one of my favorite romance novel reads to date.
*Princess Drifa, our heroine, is a bit confusing to me. I like her strange passion for gardening, her disregard for needing a marriage to validate her, and her fiery wit. She's incredibly independent and passionate, and she plays against Sidroc in a very funny way. However, a lot of her decision making left me a little confused. Her decision not to reveal "the big secret" from the beginning baffled me, and her complete lack of wanting to take her protectors' advice was just...yeah. At times, I wanted to hit her over the head with a piece of pottery. But, without her lack of sense, a majority of the novel wouldn't have happened, so I guess I can make a small concession.
*Sidroc, our hero, is just a big ole lusty brute. He seems to be made of nothing but arrogance and a desire to satisfy his own needs, but underneath it all, you learn he just has some issues. Growing up in a cold and unloving environment, he fears he'll turn into his father in regards to a wife or children, so he makes an effort not to make an attachment. But when a woman as infuriating as Drifa comes around, he just can't help but fall. She matches him wit for wit, and ever so slowly, he lets himself go. I did enjoy Sidroc's roguish nature, and his overwhelming since of masculinity. Seeing his character unfold was a nice reading experience as well, not to mention the hilarity of his taunting and teasing.
*The secondary characters seemed well developed and enjoyable, which is an unusual find. I found myself really not minding when the focus wasn't solely on the two main characters. From Sidroc's previous mistress, Ianthe, to members of the guard like Ivar, I thoroughly enjoyed every character.
*And the best part, right? The romance! Oh wow did this one revitalize my guilty love of the genre! It sizzled, it sparked! It follows my favorite cliche pattern of hate that slowly reshapes itself into love. Drifa and Sidroc butt heads at every moment, but they just can't seem to resist one another. The love scenes are hoooot, so beware of burning your hands. ;D
*All in all, this was an incredibly enjoyable light read, even with it's smattering of ridiculousness. I will definitely, definitely be picking up more of Sandra Hill's Viking novels. She has definitely made a fan out of me. I only fear the bar may have been set too high!
October 19, 2011
I have read a few Sandra Hill's before and enjoyed them for their lighthearted humor and hot love scenes. There is certainly that here with 'The Norse King's Daughter", in fact, I had to fan myself a few times, wow, this read like a steamy erotica. I was pleasantly surprised.
Love the cover, captures Sidroc and Drifa perfectly. A brief courtship is what Sidroc Guntersson has planned, he thoroughly enchants the Norse King's daughter Drifa with his desirous kisses and experienced hands. He has marriage on his mind, a quick marriage. Drifa is suitably thrilled and looking forward to it until she overhears Sidroc confide to his friend he truly covets Drifa's father's land and money, the bedsport will be a bonus.
Drifa seethes over this development, and perhaps is hurt as well. She had hoped the handsome, virile Viking was interested in her, not her dowry. She wants to be loved for the woman she is. Next time she sees Sidroc, she lets him have it with a pottery pitcher putting him in a temporary coma.
Five years pass, (yes this shift in the story was a little jarring) and life has moved on for both of them. In a sub-plot, Sidroc was married before his courtship of Drifa, the widower also needed a mother for his baby daughter, something he neglected to mention. Through a twist in fate, Drifa winds up with the baby, adopting the child to protect it. It is one of those plot devices you just accept and move on. In that five years, Sidoc has been off fighting in full Viking mode, Drifa did try to find him to tell him she had his daughter. In all these five years, Sidroc believed the baby was dead.
Passion and irritation spark as the two meet at the court in Byzantium. Drifa is now thirty years of age and past her prime as bride material. She has lived a quiet life raising her daughter Runa and tending to her garden. Sidroc is your stereotypical Viking warrior, massive and muscular in all the right places, fierce and brave, stubborn and sexy to a fault. While Sidroc had a certain barbaric appeal, I felt we never got a glimpse at his deeper feelings and motivations. I suppose one could argue he is a medieval Viking, he is what he is.
There is a lot of verbal sparring that amused me, Sandra Hill does have a way with humor. Just at the point when all this arguing was starting to annoy me, Drifa decides out of the blue she is tired of being a virgin and why not give in to the heat that still exists between her and Sidroc?
Sidroc has learned a lot of sexual treats and tricks in his many travels around the world, and he has every intention of showing Drifa everything. Sidroc gets out the medieval sex toys and oils and takes Drifa on a journey she will not soon forget. Neither will you.
There are conflict and subplots concerning their stay in Byzantium, but the book works best when it stays focused on this seemingly mis-matched couple. Their banter can be amusing and the physical aspect is off the charts. I just wished there was a little more depth to Sidroc. When Sidroc does find out Runa is his long believed dead daughter, the resolution felt rushed.
Nonetheless, this was a good read, it kept me entertained and certainly had me dropping my jaw over Sidroc's sexual prowess. I want me a Viking!
3 out 0f 4 stars
Heat level: *scorch*
Review posted at The Romanorum and The Season
Love the cover, captures Sidroc and Drifa perfectly. A brief courtship is what Sidroc Guntersson has planned, he thoroughly enchants the Norse King's daughter Drifa with his desirous kisses and experienced hands. He has marriage on his mind, a quick marriage. Drifa is suitably thrilled and looking forward to it until she overhears Sidroc confide to his friend he truly covets Drifa's father's land and money, the bedsport will be a bonus.
Drifa seethes over this development, and perhaps is hurt as well. She had hoped the handsome, virile Viking was interested in her, not her dowry. She wants to be loved for the woman she is. Next time she sees Sidroc, she lets him have it with a pottery pitcher putting him in a temporary coma.
Five years pass, (yes this shift in the story was a little jarring) and life has moved on for both of them. In a sub-plot, Sidroc was married before his courtship of Drifa, the widower also needed a mother for his baby daughter, something he neglected to mention. Through a twist in fate, Drifa winds up with the baby, adopting the child to protect it. It is one of those plot devices you just accept and move on. In that five years, Sidoc has been off fighting in full Viking mode, Drifa did try to find him to tell him she had his daughter. In all these five years, Sidroc believed the baby was dead.
Passion and irritation spark as the two meet at the court in Byzantium. Drifa is now thirty years of age and past her prime as bride material. She has lived a quiet life raising her daughter Runa and tending to her garden. Sidroc is your stereotypical Viking warrior, massive and muscular in all the right places, fierce and brave, stubborn and sexy to a fault. While Sidroc had a certain barbaric appeal, I felt we never got a glimpse at his deeper feelings and motivations. I suppose one could argue he is a medieval Viking, he is what he is.
There is a lot of verbal sparring that amused me, Sandra Hill does have a way with humor. Just at the point when all this arguing was starting to annoy me, Drifa decides out of the blue she is tired of being a virgin and why not give in to the heat that still exists between her and Sidroc?
Sidroc has learned a lot of sexual treats and tricks in his many travels around the world, and he has every intention of showing Drifa everything. Sidroc gets out the medieval sex toys and oils and takes Drifa on a journey she will not soon forget. Neither will you.
There are conflict and subplots concerning their stay in Byzantium, but the book works best when it stays focused on this seemingly mis-matched couple. Their banter can be amusing and the physical aspect is off the charts. I just wished there was a little more depth to Sidroc. When Sidroc does find out Runa is his long believed dead daughter, the resolution felt rushed.
Nonetheless, this was a good read, it kept me entertained and certainly had me dropping my jaw over Sidroc's sexual prowess. I want me a Viking!
3 out 0f 4 stars
Heat level: *scorch*
Review posted at The Romanorum and The Season
January 3, 2016
I have always had such a fun time reading this author, especially when it involves her time travel books, so I was a bit surprised to find that this one didn't have one ounce of time travel. A historical set in the Dark Ages. I will warn you that the viking slang does take some getting used to, and is probably the reason I had a trying time getting into it at first, but once I fully adjusted I started to really enjoy it, and it was hard to put down at times. There was such a chemistry between Drifa and Sidroc, and even though they are almost at each others throats quite a bit, there is also much more to their relationship.
Sidroc Guntersson has recently lost his wife, and so his baby daughter needs him. Sidroc is very insistent that she survive. His father would like nothing better than to toss her out on the doorstep, but Sidroc knows that he will need to remarry in order to gain wealth he needs and a mother for his child. So when he hears that King of Stoneheim still has one daughter unmarried, he decides to try to court her and marry her. Princess Drifa at first is enamored with Sidroc, he is handsome and charming, and makes her warm all over, so she decides to accept his suit, until she learns that all he needs her for is for his daughter and for the money he would attain if he were to marry her. So she swings a pitcher across his head, and it ends up doing quite a bit of damage and he is unconscious for six weeks. He wakes to find Drifa gone with her sisters on a trip so he ends up leaving to go after his daughter only to find her gone so he leaves to build a new life for himself. Drifa is enraged when she hears of Sidroc's plot, but when she hears of his infant daughter, she decides to go after her and bring her back to Sidroc. When she returns she learns he is gone, and endeavors to find him. Now its been five years, and when she heads down to Byzantium, and is shocked to find him again. Now their mutual passion for each other has risen, and despite danger surrounding them at every turn, it will taking fully trust to defeat those that would tear them apart.
Sidroc is your typical viking, arrogant, confident, too good looking for his own good, and loves a beautiful woman in his bed. I found him to be very believable and fully authentic and so HOT you will need a fan to cool yourself down. Drifa I found to be a very endearing heroine, and I liked her immediately, and she has such courage and tenacity that is very admirable. She doesn't back down from Sidroc and I enjoyed seeing the chemistry build between the two characters.
I found this one to be a fun and adventurous tale that takes you back to the Viking Era, and shows a more sensual side to that time. I enjoyed the in depth characters, and the fun humor that keeps you laughing from beginning to end. I will warn you that the slang can be a bit much but if you give it time, you adjust to it, and it becomes a entertaining and enough intense conflict with the plot to keep you on edge at times. SATISFYINGLY ENJOYABLE!!!
Sidroc Guntersson has recently lost his wife, and so his baby daughter needs him. Sidroc is very insistent that she survive. His father would like nothing better than to toss her out on the doorstep, but Sidroc knows that he will need to remarry in order to gain wealth he needs and a mother for his child. So when he hears that King of Stoneheim still has one daughter unmarried, he decides to try to court her and marry her. Princess Drifa at first is enamored with Sidroc, he is handsome and charming, and makes her warm all over, so she decides to accept his suit, until she learns that all he needs her for is for his daughter and for the money he would attain if he were to marry her. So she swings a pitcher across his head, and it ends up doing quite a bit of damage and he is unconscious for six weeks. He wakes to find Drifa gone with her sisters on a trip so he ends up leaving to go after his daughter only to find her gone so he leaves to build a new life for himself. Drifa is enraged when she hears of Sidroc's plot, but when she hears of his infant daughter, she decides to go after her and bring her back to Sidroc. When she returns she learns he is gone, and endeavors to find him. Now its been five years, and when she heads down to Byzantium, and is shocked to find him again. Now their mutual passion for each other has risen, and despite danger surrounding them at every turn, it will taking fully trust to defeat those that would tear them apart.
Sidroc is your typical viking, arrogant, confident, too good looking for his own good, and loves a beautiful woman in his bed. I found him to be very believable and fully authentic and so HOT you will need a fan to cool yourself down. Drifa I found to be a very endearing heroine, and I liked her immediately, and she has such courage and tenacity that is very admirable. She doesn't back down from Sidroc and I enjoyed seeing the chemistry build between the two characters.
I found this one to be a fun and adventurous tale that takes you back to the Viking Era, and shows a more sensual side to that time. I enjoyed the in depth characters, and the fun humor that keeps you laughing from beginning to end. I will warn you that the slang can be a bit much but if you give it time, you adjust to it, and it becomes a entertaining and enough intense conflict with the plot to keep you on edge at times. SATISFYINGLY ENJOYABLE!!!
August 4, 2014
Sandra Hill always amazes me with the in-depth details she uses in her writing that obviously comes from thorough and meticulous historical research. The way she describes the sights, smells and sounds taking place in this story makes me feel as if I'm standing directly next to the characters, sensing all that surrounds them. And her books are always fun to read. She's known for her humor. I know I'll giggle from the snarky dialogue between the hero and heroine, or the lovable secondary characters. Her books are always well-written and this one is no exception. Since I was introduced to Princess Drifa of Stoneheim in her sister's stories, I was looking forward to reading about this half-Viking, half-Arab princess. With her love of flowers and gardening, there were plenty of jokes and thinly veiled comments between the Viking men.
Sidroc Guntersson is a Viking with a deadline. He must find someone to marry, to take care of his newborn daughter. He woes Drifa, seducing her into marriage, until she discovers he did so without telling her the truth as to why he wished to marry her. She hits him over the head, accidentally knocking him into a 'death sleep' which prevents him from rescuing his daughter. When he wakes finding Drifa gone, he thinks she's gone on a pleasure trip and his daughter has met a foul end by the hands of this ruthless father. But during his long sleep, Drifa learns of the peril his daughter faces, so she and her sisters go on a rescue mission to secure the infant. When they return, Sidroc is gone and although Drifa searches, she cannot find him.
Five years later, Drifa and her Viking guardians travel to Byzantium only to find that Sidroc is indeed alive and well. Although, Drifa desperately wants to tell him about his daughter, it's been five years and she has grown to love the child after raising her as a daughter of her heart. Drifa fears Sidroc will take the girl away. Meanwhile, Drifa has never been far from Sidroc's mind during all these years. But, his anger with her grows into something else, and his plan for revenge turns into a seduction of his own heart.
I read this book quickly, not able to put it down until I reached the end. And, I really enjoyed the ending, turning a little misty eyed while I read the conclusion. Very nice.
Sidroc Guntersson is a Viking with a deadline. He must find someone to marry, to take care of his newborn daughter. He woes Drifa, seducing her into marriage, until she discovers he did so without telling her the truth as to why he wished to marry her. She hits him over the head, accidentally knocking him into a 'death sleep' which prevents him from rescuing his daughter. When he wakes finding Drifa gone, he thinks she's gone on a pleasure trip and his daughter has met a foul end by the hands of this ruthless father. But during his long sleep, Drifa learns of the peril his daughter faces, so she and her sisters go on a rescue mission to secure the infant. When they return, Sidroc is gone and although Drifa searches, she cannot find him.
Five years later, Drifa and her Viking guardians travel to Byzantium only to find that Sidroc is indeed alive and well. Although, Drifa desperately wants to tell him about his daughter, it's been five years and she has grown to love the child after raising her as a daughter of her heart. Drifa fears Sidroc will take the girl away. Meanwhile, Drifa has never been far from Sidroc's mind during all these years. But, his anger with her grows into something else, and his plan for revenge turns into a seduction of his own heart.
I read this book quickly, not able to put it down until I reached the end. And, I really enjoyed the ending, turning a little misty eyed while I read the conclusion. Very nice.
November 16, 2011
The final chapter of the five princesses! We've all been waiting for Drifa's hero to come trotting along.
I was most excited that this book was set in Constantinople and featured the Varangian guard. Because of Sandra Hill's viking books I first learned about this group Norse warriors who plied their skills for the emperors of the Golden City (now it's Istanbul, not Constantinople, been a long time gone, Constantinople, why did Constantinople get the works, that's nobody's business but the Turks) (Sorry, had to throw in a little, They Might be Giants).
Anyway -
I went to Istanbul last winter, and one of the biggest highlights of my trip was seeing the Viking graffiti (a commander's name etched into a marble handrail) in the Hagia Sophia! I could truly imagine those vikings standing there, living, and fighting and loving.
So, thanks to Sandra Hill for filling in the missing bits of my World History knowledge and bringing it to life for me.
Who says you don't learn anything from reading Romance Novels.
Not me!
I was most excited that this book was set in Constantinople and featured the Varangian guard. Because of Sandra Hill's viking books I first learned about this group Norse warriors who plied their skills for the emperors of the Golden City (now it's Istanbul, not Constantinople, been a long time gone, Constantinople, why did Constantinople get the works, that's nobody's business but the Turks) (Sorry, had to throw in a little, They Might be Giants).
Anyway -
I went to Istanbul last winter, and one of the biggest highlights of my trip was seeing the Viking graffiti (a commander's name etched into a marble handrail) in the Hagia Sophia! I could truly imagine those vikings standing there, living, and fighting and loving.
So, thanks to Sandra Hill for filling in the missing bits of my World History knowledge and bringing it to life for me.
Who says you don't learn anything from reading Romance Novels.
Not me!
June 30, 2021
Sidroc: Loves sex, women, and sex. Also, Viking warrior.
Drifa: Shy, but secretly kinky, loves gardening.
The romance between Sidroc and Drifa is dull, to put it bluntly. It’s more like, “let’s just bang right here right now any chance we get.” I’ll admit, the sex is definitely steamy and hot, but the banter and fucking got repetitive. Almost no emotional growth or understanding between them happened, just sex.
Although, I did really enjoy the side characters. Especially Ianthe. She really did try to be a good friend to Drifa, earning her trust on several occasions, just for Drifa to get jealous of her all over again. And for what, girl? YOU are the one who has the peebrained (but hot) Viking! Ugh.
I’m giving this book three stars because.... I read it at a good time. Sandra Hill may not have hit the “romance” on the head (hehe, sorry not sorry, Sidroc) with this one, but she definitely sets the scene. I was amazed at the visualizations of Constantinople. The politics, religion, and war. I truly think that’s what made this book. Hill did her research and it shows.
Drifa: Shy, but secretly kinky, loves gardening.
The romance between Sidroc and Drifa is dull, to put it bluntly. It’s more like, “let’s just bang right here right now any chance we get.” I’ll admit, the sex is definitely steamy and hot, but the banter and fucking got repetitive. Almost no emotional growth or understanding between them happened, just sex.
Although, I did really enjoy the side characters. Especially Ianthe. She really did try to be a good friend to Drifa, earning her trust on several occasions, just for Drifa to get jealous of her all over again. And for what, girl? YOU are the one who has the peebrained (but hot) Viking! Ugh.
I’m giving this book three stars because.... I read it at a good time. Sandra Hill may not have hit the “romance” on the head (hehe, sorry not sorry, Sidroc) with this one, but she definitely sets the scene. I was amazed at the visualizations of Constantinople. The politics, religion, and war. I truly think that’s what made this book. Hill did her research and it shows.
September 30, 2011
I give this book 3-1/2 stars. Great story I couldn't put it down. Princess Drifa and Sidroc were great with each other. It just felt like something was missing in this Viking story. Maybe some of Sandra's humor, maybe more action. If you have never read any of her other books this would be a great read, but I have read all of her other Viking books and this is not her best even though I did like the story. Confusing review? That is how I feel. I do recommend this book though. Good writing good story. Light on the "Viking".
January 4, 2012
I loved the Viking Princess's Series and sad to see them end. Sandra Hill did a wonderful job on the last sister still single, Drifa. Her story contained and the love and laughter that you expect from her books. Drifa was the perfect match for Sidroc. He needed someone who took charge, and told him about it later. All the sisters have their own story's so I'd read them in order to have a more complete feel for each book.
February 21, 2012
Drifta and Sidroc's story is one that will not only have you busting out in laughter, but it will squeeze your heart too. This is one of my favorites that she has written yet. Drifta loves to plant and one thing I love about this book is the way Sidroc drives her crazy calling her plant names as endearments, or at times to drive her insane. The banter is wonderful and sure to keep you in stitches. Sandra Hill takes you to different countries and on an amazing ride with this one!
February 5, 2012
I love Sandra Hill's books. They are fun and full of misunderstandings and humor. This book is no different. I love the banter between Princess Drifa and Sidroc. Princess Drifa is a very independent, strong willed woman.. just the type to put Sidroc, and others, in their place. I'm having a hard time putting the book down!
November 27, 2011
Great book!! The exotic locals were interesting and full of cultural details that I loved. Both the hero and heroine were realistic and likable, if not stubborn and a little impatient. I loved their clashes and, of course, their making up. The ending was satisfying and I had that warm, 'what a good book' feeling when I was done.
June 8, 2014
It's like a Fox channel show that got to air one episode on HBO. And then was canceled. Plus, the whole time I'm like--you guys have some serious communication issues that would land you on VH1's Marriage Bootcamp with Dr. Drew. And you wouldn't make it.
July 11, 2016
Viking romance is usually my thing but this just tripped all my triggers and totally pissed me off. Damn near 400 pages of shitty "hero" and annoying heroine. Ugh.
November 4, 2011
Loved this book. Honestly, this entire series was fantastic!
November 19, 2011
Was fun and sexy, tho not as funny as some of hers Great cover.
February 15, 2012
The best out of all the Viking I books! It had the best storyline, the best humor, and it was the most naughty! Loved this book!!
December 13, 2012
though a time passing book, it lack the enthusiastic romance element like her other books.p
January 18, 2019
Bodice ripper. Sidroc sought Drifa's hand in marriage to save his newborn daughter. After changing her mind about marrying him and hitting on the head, he is angry and bitter believing his child was killed while he was healing and it's all her fault. These two end up reconnecting five years later in a far away land and he has revenge on his mind and she's afraid to tell him about his daughter. I truly dislike this story mechanic of withholding important information too long and his supposed punishment didn't really hold any water either. The sex was good, playful and a little bit kinky, it just didn't fit well with the idea of revenge. He seems all about protecting her and when she gets kidnapped he's all about saving her and looking out for her interests. The story just came across as unrealistic and disjointed. the best part of the story is the very end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2020
Silly and sexy
Sandra Hill is always good for a laugh, but I didn’t love this one as much as her earlier books in the series. The main characters were too one-dimensional, but you can’t argue with a delightful ending.
Sandra Hill is always good for a laugh, but I didn’t love this one as much as her earlier books in the series. The main characters were too one-dimensional, but you can’t argue with a delightful ending.
February 3, 2021
I will never get enough of this book. I reread it often, pretty much anytime I need a pick me up. The banter between Sidroc and Drifa is brilliant. And don't even get me started on the attraction between them. Such a fun and entertaining read.
January 1, 2022
Got to love a Viking!
This story was so uniquely written. Imagine hitting someone over the head, stealing/rescuing his little baby girl, then raising her thinking he must be dead. But, then coming face to face with him after 5 years! What a story!
This story was so uniquely written. Imagine hitting someone over the head, stealing/rescuing his little baby girl, then raising her thinking he must be dead. But, then coming face to face with him after 5 years! What a story!
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