Tempted by the Runes

Runes #4

by Christina Courtenay

'Wonderfully written and a real page turner. Christina tells a story equally as well as Barbara Erskine' 5* reader review

This stunning and evocative new timeslip novel from the bestselling author of Echoes of the Runes , features an exclusive bonus short story!

Brimming with romance, adventure and vivid historical detail, Christina Courtenay does for the Vikings what Diana Gabaldon's Outlander and Clanlans does for Scottish history.

'The Queen of Timeslip Romance has done it again! A romantic and compelling read - a total page turner' SANDY BARKER

'A brilliantly written timeslip that combines mystery and romance into a compelling and vividly imagined story' NICOLA CORNICK

'I LOVED Tempted by the Runes . Christina Courtenay is guaranteed to carry me off to another place and time in a way that no other author succeeds in doing' SUE MOORCROFT
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Born centuries apart. Bound by a love that defied time.

Madison Berger is visiting Dublin with her family for a Viking re-enactment festival, when she chances upon a small knife embedded in the banks of the Liffey. Maddie recognises what the runes on the knife's handle the chance to have her own adventures in the past.

Maddie only intends to travel back in time briefly, but a skirmish in 9th century Dublin results in her waking up on a ship bound for Iceland, with the man who saved her from attack.

Geir Eskilsson has left his family in Sweden to boldly carve out a life of his own. He is immediately drawn to Maddie, but when he learns of her connection to his sisters-in-law, he begins to believe that Fate has played a part in bringing them together. Amidst the perils that await on their journey to a new land, the truest battle will be to win Maddie's heart and convince her that the runes never lie...

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Just some of the rich praise for Christina Courtenay 's pacy, evocative and romantic Echoes of the Runes and The Runes of Destiny , out

' S eals Christina Courtenay's crown as the Queen of Viking Romance' CATHERINE MILLER

'This epic romance is sure to sweep you off your feet!' TAKE A BREAK

'An absorbing story, fast-paced and vividly imagined, which really brought the Viking world to life' PAMELA HARTSHORNE

'A love story and an adventure, all rolled up inside a huge amount of intricately-detailed, well-researched history. Thoroughly enjoyable' KATHLEEN MCGURL

'Prepare to be swept along in this treasure of an adventure! With a smart, courageous heroine and hunky, honourable hero at the helm, what's not to like?' KATE RYDER

'Highly recommended for lovers of historical romance and timeslips, it's another absorbing read. 5 stars' GEORGIA HILL

'An amazing page-turner filled with superb historical detail, it had me gripped from the first page to the last - I absolutely loved it!' CLARE MARCHANT

'Every story Christina Courtenay spins is better than the last and every world she creates is more real. I loved The Runes of Destiny !' SUE MOORCROFT

Genres: Historical Fiction, Time Travel, Romance, Fantasy, Historical Romance, Historical, Fiction

336 pages, Paperback

First published December 9, 2021

About the author

Christina Courtenay writes historical romance, time slip and time travel stories, and lives in Herefordshire (near the Welsh border) in the UK. Although born in England, she has a Swedish mother and was brought up in Sweden – hence her abiding interest in the Vikings. Christina is a former chairman of the UK’s Romantic Novelists’ Association and has won several awards, including the RoNA for Best Historical Romantic Novel twice with Highland Storms (2012) and The Gilded Fan (2014) and the RNA Fantasy Romantic Novel of the year 2021 with Echoes of the Runes. Christina is a keen amateur genealogist and loves history and archaeology (the armchair variety).

Reviews

[Lauren coffeebooksandescape · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘If I can best you, do I get a reward?’ ‘I don’t know about that . . .’ She could guess from the twinkle in his eyes what kind of reward he was envisaging, and it made butterflies dance in her stomach. ‘You’d have to do exceptionally well.’ He gave her a confident grin. ‘Oh, I will.’

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Maddie is visiting Ireland with her parents for a Viking reenactment festival, but bored out of her wits, goes for a walk along the river. She sees an object buried half in the dirt and after wiping it clean realises it’s a time-travelling device. Landing back in the Viking ages, she immediately meets trouble, and her rescuer Geir takes her, unconscious, onboard his ship headed for Iceland. This time-slip adventure and romance is sure to keep you on your toes!

I really liked this book. At first I thought the genre was a little out of my comfort-zone, but I’m always eager to find something new that I’ll enjoy. Maddie and Geir made this book incredible. I’m not sure how I would fare if I ended up thousands of years in the past myself, but Maddie was incredible! I’m glad everyone in this book managed to find a way to get along, especially the thralls, oh and Lif, she was definitely in need of a good bum-kicking at several points throughout!

This book is very well written, and I assume researched, however I’m not a Vikings geek so I can’t confirm! If you’re looking for something a bit different, I definitely recommend this!

Thank you to @headlinebooks, @christinacourtenayauthor and @netgalley for providing me with a copy!

Pub date: Available now!

[Lu · Rating 5 out of 5]

When love is far away in the past.

Geir is the youngest of three Viking brothers and anxious to be independent and owner of his destiny.

He settled in Iceland, a remote area where land was available to those daring to claim it, but conditions were very harsh. On his way to this new land, he met Maddie, a fierce and opinionated woman that came from the future.

Believing the Gods sent her, Geir tried his best to woo her and convince her to settle in Viking age Iceland as his wife.

I love that Geir, despite the constrictions of his time, was always very respectful and caring. Maddie was a favorite of mine from the first book in the series (she was but a little girl), and I was happy to see what a strong woman she became.

The book is standalone, but there are extra perks for those who read the previous books. Lots of lovey characters make an appearance: Hrafn, Rurik (my favorite brother), Ivan, and Maddie's parents.

Tempted by the Runes is an entrancing trip into the Viking's world with a lovely and romantic time-slip story to sweeten the way.

Another great installment in this fantastic series! I'm hoping that Ivan is next ;)

Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley for an honest review.

[Bonnie DeMoss · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although this is a decent romance, there is not much time travel. It wasn't realistic as far as culture and language differences between the main characters. It just wasn't my cup of tea.

[Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love all the Viking details and words. I liked that Maddie was different from other women on the series. A gentle book, with no overall threat of rape to Maddie.
Geir was a good goodie and the villains were women: Lif and Vidgis. I found him tenacious, he was a lover not a fighter where Rurik was crafty and Hrafn a trader. I didn't think Maddie would fall in love with him.

[Jaime · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tempted by the Runes by Christina Courtenay is a Viking time-slip (dual time) romance, which interweaves past and present. This is an enjoyable romance with excellent historical content that I found to be well researched and blended into the story without overwhelming the romance. I have not read previous books in this series but I will likely be going back to them..

[Dana K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Time travel AND Vikings?! I was so in for this one when I read the summary. The allusions to Outlander were spot on.

Maddie is the youngest daughter of a family who are obsessed with the Viking era. They do reenactments and attend courses in the Viking ways. So when Maddie finds an artifact that allows her to travel back in time she is well capable, somewhat like our Claire Fraser. She's considerably younger though, which made her aptitude a little less believable but I digress...

In the past she encounters some rough Viking folk and is saved from ravishing and slavery by a dashing man named Geir. He takes her on his boat so that she can recover and she finds out they are bound for Iceland to start a settlement there. We are immersed in the day to day life of starting a Viking settlement from scratch. We learn about how they eat, how they travelled and lived and the dangers they faced. Maddie of course is quite precociously trying to teach these people about her modern ways of sanitation, climate preservation and human rights. At times it is humorous and frustrating how naïve and yet forceful in her view that her ways are best. But it is interesting to see her learn to love these people and their way of life.

I loved the natural Iceland setting which was atmospheric. The romance aspect was a slow burn which suited me just fine and it got a little steamy at times but not graphically so. Overall this was a fun historical fiction read with a time travel aspect, if you liked Outlander you will enjoy this one as well.

Thanks to Netgalley for access to this novel. All opinions are my own.

[Natalie Normann · Rating 5 out of 5]

The perfect Viking time-slip story
Maddie thinks she knows everything there is to know about Viking life, having taking part in Viking festivals since she was little. That is, until she finds herself in the 9th century, with real life hitting her in the face. Waking up in a proper longship on it's way to Iceland will do that to you.
Having read the three other books in Christina Courtneys Viking series, I'm happy to report that this is every bit as good. It's gripping from the start, filled with daring adventure and lovely romance - and all the details of Viking life you ever wanted to know. You can't help fall in love with Maddie and Geir as they try to figure out what's between them. The story is well-written and so well researched it's pure joy to read it. I didn't want it to end!

[lifelonghistorylover · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Viking Age is one of my favourite areas of history, I could talk about it all day! I have followed Christina Courtenay on Twitter and Instagram for some time, and I know that she puts a lot of effort into the research for each book - and it shows! Details of clothes, old Norse words, Norse gods, traditional housebuilding techniques in Iceland, and Viking law, are what bring this time slip novel to life. Reading it feels like you have travelled back in time yourself!

In the 9th century Geir is planning a one-way trip to Iceland, he plans to establish his own settlement in Iceland, which still has very few people inhabiting it. Meanwhile in the 21st century, Maddie is in Dublin with her family at a Viking re-enactment festival, something they do each year. Bored, when her family ditch her at the hotel and still dressed in her re-enactment outfit, she goes out exploring. Finding an ancient artefact, Maddie reads the runes inscribed onto it and travels back in time. She initially meets Geir while she is being attacked. She is knocked out cold and Geir has no choice but to carry her onto his boat while she recovers.

Maddie wakes up while they are out at sea and travelling to Iceland. When she explains she is from the future she expects the handsome Viking to be shocked, however he knows all about time travel – that is how his brothers met their wives! Realising that he must have a fate similar to his brothers when it comes to love, Geir has to think of a way to get Maddie to stay in his time, long enough for her to fall in love with him! He manages to persuade her to stay with him while he and his small group of people establish the settlement in Iceland.

Although Maddie is initially attracted to Geir, she can’t help but apply 21st century ways of living to the situations she witnesses - such as the ownership of thralls, which make being with Geir long term something she can’t contemplate. However, he eventually comes around to her way of thinking when she explains her reasons. Although Maddie knows a lot about the Viking age, the reality is very different when you are in the 9th century and living it! She enjoys the simpler way of life and the feeling of fulfilment after an exhausting days’ work, and each day she falls a little more for Geir. However, 9th century Iceland is a very dangerous place to live, can she make it work, or will she be forced to return to her own time?

Although Tempted by the Runes is connected to the authors previous books: Echoes of the Runes, Runes of Destiny and Whispers of the Runes; you can read this book as a standalone. The plots and characters of the previous books are mentioned, so you know roughly how the stories are related to each other. I loved this novel, it’s hard not to fall in love with both characters. I enjoyed the way the author didn’t gloss over the hardships of the past and romanticise it in this time-slip. Viking age life was hard, and I think Christina Courtenay captured this perfectly. I am excited to read the rest of the series and I highly recommend this book.
*gifted in exchange for an honest review

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was looking forward to this next instalment of Christina Courtenay’s ‘Runes’ series so much having read the previous books in the series. It lived up to all my expectations.

Oh what joy to be transported back to Viking times! As I with the other books, I was gripped from the first page and totally immersed in life as a Viking.

In this book, which can easily be read as a stand alone, it is the turn of the third brother to feature. Geir leaves his family behind in Sweden, headed for a new country to start a new life. He takes a few of his friends and their families, along with some animals and seeds for crops. Everything they need to start their settlement from scratch.

On the way they stop off at Ireland and he finds Maddie who has recently arrived from the future and is being harassed by some men. He takes her in his boat to their new life.

Initially all Maddie wants to do is return home. Geir has taken her knife which is the object to allow her to time travel and persuades her to stay and help for a while. He believes she has been sent by the gods to be his wife.

As time goes by, Maddie realises she actually has feelings for this strong, respectful Viking. As her parents are both very into Viking history and re-enactments, she can speak their language of Old Norse and knows a thing or two of how vikings live so she is able to help establish the new settlement.

Maddie has such wisdom and strength and she is only 19.

I will not divulge too much of the storyline as you really need to read it, and if you have not read any of the other books in this series I highly recommend them all.

I hope Christina has another book in the series up her sleeve.

[Jenna · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fun Viking adventure. Comparable to Outlander in concept but the writing is not as good. Overall, a quick, enjoyable read.

[Vanessa Dunning · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for NetGalley for providing me with this for review.

Firstly let me express how much I love all of Christina Courtenay's runes books, so I was absolutely thrilled to receive a arc of this book. What can I say this book did not fail it's another truly wonderful installment of this saga. I now feel slightly bereft, hoping that there's another installment planned.

[RomanceByTheBook · Rating 4 out of 5]

Get ready to be swept into Christina Courtenay’s world of time-slipping with latest novel Tempted by the Runes.

When Rachel’s Random Resources asked us if we wanted to be a part of the book blog tour for Tempted by the Runes, I saw the cover and found myself falling in love with this book without even knowing what it was about. I am a sucker for a pretty book cover. Once I could tear my eyes away from the cover, I read the synopsis and was instantly intrigued. I haven’t read anything set during the Viking era, and I love the whole time-slip concept. I knew I had to get my hands on this book and see if the story was as good as it sounds. Tempted by the Runes is the third book in Catherine’s time-slip series. Each book reads as a stand-alone, but be warned that there are spoilers from previous books, and characters from early books make cameos.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. I liked the time-slip world that Catherine has created. Actually, this is the first time I heard of the concept of time-slipping and had to google it. For those who are newbies to the concept like I was, time-slipping is where a character(s) travel through time, often by unknown means; think Outlander. In this book, the characters can jump through time by using magical ancient items that have runes on them. Maddie finds one of these time-travelling items while mud larking in modern-day Dublin. She is no stranger to time-slipping, her sister and a friend have both gone into the Viking era using these magical objects (their stories are books one and two in the series). Maddie decides she wants to have her own time-slipping adventure. But of course, things don’t go according to plan, and Maddie is ambushed by a group of men and ends up being knocked out. Geir witnesses the attack on Maddie and steps in to rescue her. He ends up taking Maddie on his ship as he heads off to Iceland to start a settlement. In a strange twist of fate, it turns out that Geir is also no stranger to time-slipping, but you will have to read the book to find out more.

You can tell that Catherine has done her research. She has put a lot of thought and detail into describing how the settlements in Iceland were established and everyday life during that time. I enjoy the grittiness of the world she created. I thought it was also interesting to see that clash of beliefs and ideals from the two time periods. Maddie struggled with certain aspects of Viking life, and Geir didn’t understand why she was upset when they would hunt animals or own thralls (slaves). These things were necessary for him to survive, especially when establishing a new settlement. These clash of beliefs and way of life created plenty of conflict between the two main characters.

Click on the link to read our full review on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/2021/12/...

[Natalie Normann · Rating 5 out of 5]

The perfect Viking time-slip story
Maddie thinks she knows everything there is to know about Viking life, having taking part in Viking festivals since she was little. That is, until she finds herself in the 9th century, with real life hitting her in the face. Waking up in a proper longship on it's way to Iceland will do that to you.
Having read the three other books in Christina Courtneys Viking series, I'm happy to report that this is every bit as good. It's gripping from the start, filled with daring adventure and lovely romance - and all the details of Viking life you ever wanted to know. You can't help fall in love with Maddie and Geir as they try to figure out what's between them. The story is well-written and so well researched it's pure joy to read it. I didn't want it to end!

[Cathie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the fourth novel in the series, and the setting is as exciting as in the other stories. Maddie is yet another family member who goes a-travelling through time when she finds a folding knife in the river Liffey in Dublin at low tide. She knows the inscription well.

Her brother, Storm, was on a pub crawl, so she'd ventured out – in her Viking re-enactment clothes – when she stumbled across the artefact. In the spur of a moment, she decided she wanted her own Viking-era adventure. Listening to Linnea and Sara, and having met their husbands, was no longer enough. So she cuts herself whilst saying the fateful words that catapult her back to Dublin in AD 875.

But her arrival did not go to plan when she was set upon by four thugs – until a tall, fair Viking fought them off. Well, Maddie's martial arts did help a bit too, but it was not enough to prevent her being knocked unconscious. When she wakes, she finds her head tended to – but she's on a ship, bound for Iceland!

Geir recognised the signs, and when Maddie tells him about the knife, his suspicion grows. Both his brothers were married to time-travelling women, so surely meeting Maddie was fate, or not?

Convinced the Norns brought them together, and refusing to return to Ireland, Geir and Maddie strike a deal. She would stay a while and help set up their new settlement, then she was free to go. But he wanted to learn about her world too, and he found himself falling in love with her.

But Maddie had been bullied in school, and she deems his compliments to be flattery. After all, apart from a couple of thrall women, she was the only other unwed female. He had no choice. Surely that was why he lusted after her, not for herself?

As weeks turn into months, they settle into their new-claimed place in a quiet Icelandic bay. But their new life is not without dangers. The small group has to look after their animals and crops well, but fortunately there are fish aplenty. But they are ill-prepared for a raid...

As with all the novels in the series, Ms Courtenay has researched the setting very well. She conveys to us a real sense of Viking age Iceland – an island ripe for the picking, but not without its drawbacks. A harsh land, but also beautiful. I loved the inclusion of a hot spring, which loosely reminded Maddie of a hot bath in the 21st century.

The main and supporting characters are all well-defined, and definitely ’people’ from their times. Geir is a realist, wanting to carve out his own life as back home there is not enough space for him. He has something to prove, and he is desperate for this new settlement to succeed.

Maddie is a Millenial, with the social conscience of wanting to make the world a better place. Her whole attitude is very 21st century, and of course starkly at odds with Viking society. Whilst her views are admirable these days, but her insistence that only her way was right felt too modern to me. When she sulks after Geir appears with baby seal pelts (which he had not killed), she is off in a huff. Her reaction is that of a sullen teenager which I suppose she is, aged 19. As abhorrent as this is to our eyes, it did not matter to her that the pelts would keep the young children warm in the harsh winters, so I found her reluctance to even try to understand Geir's world frustrating.

Overall, I found her too insistent on 21st century customs and views, some of which Geir accepted, much to the surprise of his fellow settlers. He'd known about the modern-day abhorrence of keeping thralls, so when he frees his, for them to become valued members of their small community instead, it makes much sense. However, at times I could feel his annoyance at her insistent views, and to me, she was taking the 21st century into the 9th, whilst not being prepared to give any thing in return. He agrees to indulge her, as he wants her as his wife, but I find her views – however benevolent we regard them these days – patronising. As if the Vikings were clueless about their environment. (Unlike modern mass production, these settlers killed to survive, for meat and furs.) And her method to get him to do what she deemed right reminded me of emotional blackmail. Sadly, I did not find Maddie likeable.

I did like Geir, though. He is not a forceful Viking, but a strategic settler. He faces all his troubles head-on, and does not shy away from defending his small community in man-to-man combat. Loyal and honest, he is fair in punishment and towards all members of their small group. Remarkable, but sometimes too easily convinced by Maddie's views.

Tempted by the Runes has a gripping plot, that sees Maddie and Geir struggle with their growing feelings towards each other, but also with their new life in the remote bleakness of Iceland. Ms Courtenay brings the setting across wonderfully, and we get a real sense of their daily challenges. Their life is described in great detail, and the author uses that opportunity to share her extensive research. I thoroughly enjoyed that glimpse into a past life in such a difficult environment.

At times, I found the prose slightly too modern, but it did not jolt me out of the plot, which I found engaging throughout, with a few clever twists thrown in. A challenging adventure which the characters dealt with perfectly.

As the other titles in the series, Tempted by the Runes does not disappoint. It is a romantic time-travel novel that I can highly recommend.

Note: I received a free ebook copy in exchange for an honest review. All views my own.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5
Tempted by the Runes was written by Christina Courtenay and was book 3 in a series but can be read as a stand-alone. I loved it!
A Viking-time travel tale set in Iceland? Yes please. And the romance was heartfelt. It was a slow burn and worth the wait. The story was rich in history and I loved watching the MC fall for each other. This was a “feel good” and “I’m so glad I read this” kind of experience.
I recommend this one.
Thanks Headline via NetGalley.

[Anne Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re ever a little bored, left alone in your Dublin hotel room after taking part in a Viking re-enactment, mud-larking on the banks of the Liffey is something you might prefer to avoid – but if you do, and you find a knife with a phrase inscribed on the handle, don’t read it out loud then cut your finger with it just to see what happens. Like Maddie, you might just find yourself whisked back in time to the ninth century, saved from danger by a handsome visiting Viking, then on a ship bound for a new life in Iceland.

But she’s particularly well equipped for it – wearing the right clothes (and her modern day leggings underneath to keep her warm), fluent in the language, reads the runes, and adept at a lot of the other skills she’ll need to thrive in the Viking age thanks to her involvement in all those re-enactments. She’s also a bit of a kick-ass heroine, trained in martial arts – which she’ll undoubtedly find rather useful in lawless times. And she’s certainly not unfamiliar with the notion of time travel – her parents (a couple we know well from an earlier book) are unlikely to worry about her sudden disappearance because several other family members have already made a similar journey. But she’s only nineteen, and is considerably less comfortable with the growing feelings between her and Viking Geir – although, as a member of the Eskilsson family, he’s come across women who come from the future world a few times before.

I really love this series – I’m entirely comfortable now with the whole notion of time travel, although I do know some readers might find it a tad more difficult to suspend their disbelief. But the way the author uses her research to bring the ninth century so vividly to life just takes my breath away – this time we’re back in the days when Reykjavik was only Vik, a relatively new settlement not hostile to others arriving to seek their fortunes. Geir and his band of travellers find an inlet further along the coast that they can call home, with flat ground to build their homes, and even a hot spring for washing and relaxation. The detail is just wonderful – the blacksmith making nails to secure their first hall’s timbers, the felling of trees, the weaving of clothing, the foraging for food and the care of the livestock. I particularly liked the way we also got Maddie’s modern take on issues – driving welcome changes to the treatment of the thralls, but also her horror at the hunting of walruses for their tusks, the slaughter of baby seals for their skins, and the killing of seabirds (now long extinct) for their meat.

And at the heart of the story, there’s a developing romance I entirely believed in – both Maddie and Geir were characters I really took to my heart – although there’s plenty of conflict and angst on the way to their hoped for happy ending. The writing and story-telling is superb – the whole story has perfect pace, moments of considerable drama, well-developed supporting characters along with the relationships between them, and plenty of well-judged humour. Whether you’re drawn to this book by the history, the whole idea of time travel, or the romance, you really can’t fail to love it. I most certainly did, and I thought it was the best in the series so far – I recommend it very highly.

[Sandra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Having visited Iceland and loved the wild beauty, I was pleased to discover ‘Tempted by the Runes’ by Christina Courtenay. A time-travelling Viking romance combining Sweden, Iceland and Ireland in the 21st and 9th centuries, this is a light romance which skips along nicely.
Geir Eskilsson is a Viking adventurer who sets sail from Sviariki [Sweden] in AD875 in a ship bound for Iceland, loaded with fellow travellers, livestock and tools. During a stopover in the port of Dyflin [Dublin, Ireland] to buy thralls [slaves] to work the land, he sees a strangely dressed woman being attacked.
In 2021 a nineteen-year-old Swede, Maddie, is visiting Dublin with her parents and brother to attend the Clonarf Viking Festival. Maddie’s father is an archaeologist, her mother a conservator, so she and her siblings have attended Viking re-enactments since they were small and have learned the practical skills of Viking life at workshops. When Maddie explores Dublin on her own, she finds steps down to the shore of the River Liffey where she sees a knife half-buried in the mud.
From the beginning it’s necessary to ignore the large number of conveniences and coincidences that occur; just abandon the questioning voice in your head and enjoy the story. Maddie is incredibly naive for her age and makes many impulsive questionable decisions; for example, she leaves the hotel still wearing her Viking outfit so is appropriately dressed when she finds herself in 9th century Dyflin. There she just happens to bump into Geir, not some anonymous Viking who would have treated her differently; to explain why will spoil the plot.
The Norse legends run throughout and it felt good to understand references to Odin, Loki and Thor’s hammer. I realised at the end that I read the whole book seeing Geir as Thor in the Marvel movies and hearing his spoken voice as Chris Hemsworth. The description of Iceland’s beautiful scenery, coastline and wildlife is also well done. After the early clash of culture – Maddie is horrified when Geir returns from a hunting trip with Great Auks, birds now extinct through over-hunting – it soon settles into a will they/won’t they romance, threatened by violent visitors and a Viking femme fatale.
I admit to being irritated to discover, on starting the book, that it’s actually part of a series which is not clearly stated. After hovering, I decided to go ahead and read it. It turned out not to matter too much but I’m not sure I will now read the earlier books. Some characters from the earlier Runes books are mentioned in ‘Tempted by the Runes’ so I know the outcome of their story arcs. It’s a shame this mystery is lost, as this was an entertaining romance to read on holiday.
Read more of my book reviews at http://www.sandradanby.com/book-revie...

[Book Escapes Babs · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’ve followed my reviews, you may already be aware that I highly rate this series. The idea of slipping back in time to the era of the Vikings, is already rather romantic. Add in the romantic pull of Christina Courtenay’s storytelling, and you have everything that you need to create a wonderful series. Tempted by the Runes is a perfect addition to the previous titles, and it wastes no time as the story finds its pace within the early chapters.
On this occasion, we start off the time travel in medieval Dublin. The descriptions are so real, that it’s almost possible to smell the mud and hear the crowds roar, as Maddie becomes embroiled in a skirmish. This time, we fall straight into an understanding as Maddie is rescued by Geir Eskilsson, the younger brother of Hrafn and Rurik. He has already encountered time travellers and is not at all shocked to hear Maddie’s story. In fact, he decides that the Norse gods have sent her for a reason.
It was a joy to meet new characters and to explore foreign lands. This time, besides Dublin, we head to Iceland. The Viking party become early settlers and there is a wealth of information to help visualise the scenes, as this beautiful, yet remote island is transformed into farmland. The volume of knowledge, mixed with detailed research, is immediately evident. From farming and building methods, to dietary options and personal hygiene, I became immersed, once again, in Viking life.
There is a distinct rhythm which is evident in each of the books in this series. It’s impossible not to get sucked into the story. Before I knew it, it was the wee small hours, and I simply couldn’t turn my kindle off. The story flowed, and the pages were turned at a rapid pace as the words were inhaled from each page. Once again, we were faced with the difficult subject matter of Thralls, Viking slaves. Maddie is forced to see things through medieval eyes, though she is determined to ensure that slavery ends in her group. On top of this, we experience the shocking practice of hunting for Great Auks and seal pups. Difficult to accept, but very much a part of their times.
Once again, there is a wonderful supporting cast, as well as opportunities to catch up with the stars of the rest of this series. I particularly liked Aine, purchased as a thrall, she is kind and supportive as Maddie navigates her way through her changed circumstances. From glimpses of Viking traditions and rituals, to snatches of medieval words and phrases, Tempted by the Runes is a fascinating story and one not to be missed.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Multi award-winning author Christina Courtenay blends passion, history, mystery and intrigue in her mesmerizing new timeslip romance, Tempted by the Runes.

Madison Berger is in Dublin for a Viking re-enactment festival when on the banks of the Liffey she finds something that will enable her to have an unforgettable adventure that will change the course of her entire life forever: a small knife with runes on its handle that ends up transporting her all the way back to the 9th Century. Maddie isn’t planning on sticking around in the past for longer than is necessary, but little does she realise that an unfortunate skirmish will compel her to cross paths with an honourable man who will save her from a dangerous attack: Geir Eskilsson, whom she is trapped on board a ship bound for Iceland with!

Geir had left his family in Sweden behind for a better future. Determined to carve out a new life for himself far from home, Geir is not looking for romance or for any further complications, but he finds himself drawn to Maddie like a moth to the flame. Learning of her connections to his sisters-in-law, Geir is convinced that fate has brought him and Maddie together. But the journey to their new life on a strange land will be fraught with terror and jeopardy that might just end up putting paid to any hope Geir had of building a future with Maddie.

With the odds stacked against them, can Geir win Maddie’s heart and prove to her that that her destiny lies with him in the 9th Century? Or will the promise of the runes that binds them together be broken forever leaving them both consumed by sorrow and regret?

Christina Courtenay writes sweeping, atmospheric and enthralling timeslip romances that take readers away into a world of danger, adventure and desire that is so beautifully and brilliantly evoked that they will be held spellbound from page one until the very last sentence. In Tempted by the Runes, Christina Courtenay spins a beguiling and seductive tale with a terrific heroine and a noble and charismatic Viking hero who gives the likes of Jamie Fraser a run for his money in the swoon-worthy stakes!

Christina Courtenay has knocked it out of the park yet again with Tempted by the Runes, a passionate, compulsively readable and captivating timeslip novel where the pages simply turn themselves.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[booksofallkinds · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I voluntarily reviewed this book from Netgalley.

Exceptional characters that I completely fell in love with and historical detail that blew my mind, and I have to say that TEMPTED BY THE RUNES by Christina Courtenay is my favourite book in this series, and one of my favourite historical romance novels of all time!

Madison Berger is on holiday with her family in Dublin for a Viking re-enactment festival and is throwing herself into the spirit of the whole thing, reading runes and dressing the part. But she cannot help feel a little lost in her life and when she finds a knife that holds the magic of time-travel that seems to choose her family, she is excited about an adventure. But landing back in the past and getting attacked was not exactly what she expected. Well able to take care of herself, she is still grateful for the Viking man that helps her but when she finds herself bound for Iceland, she is determined to get back to her family as soon as she can.

Geir Eskilsson understands that time-travel is possible as his brothers have both found love and happiness this way. When he helps Maddie and takes her with him to a new land where he hopes to make his own settlement, it isn't long before he starts to have feelings for her and believes that she was sent by the Gods to be his wife. But Maddie has other ideas and while she is very capable in the ways of the past, she struggles with some of the traditions and ways that are cruel and inhumane in her world.

As Geir and Maddie grow closer, can love find a way through their differences? And when all seems lost can Geir show Maddie that he loves her more than anything or anyone?

TEMPTED BY THE RUNES by Christina Courtenay is simply stunning and I devoured this book in one evening as I could not put it down. Maddie is a fantastic character - strong, feisty, intelligent, and compassionate - and I loved watching her blossom into who she wants to be and find her path in life. Geir is kind, strong, and unwavering in his love for Maddie and those that he leads, and I desperately wanted him to find happiness with the love of his life.
​
An excellent story that transported me back in time and made my heart beat faster, TEMPTED BY THE RUNES by Christina Courtenay is a must-read.

[Jaffareadstoo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I often think that if I were able to time travel I would make sure that I had all the skills necessary to survive and that's just what happens when Maddie Berger, no stranger to Viking re-enactments, finds herself transported back to 9th Century Dublin, where her skill in martial arts comes in useful when she threatened by a group of rough individuals. The story takes on an interesting twist when Maddie awakens on board a Viking ship bound for Iceland and a new life as settler.

Set against a harsh landscape this exciting Viking adventure takes us right into the heart of a new world. A place where cold and ice exist and where, after a day of work, the prospect of a warm soak in a sulfur infused geyser is the height of luxury. It must be said that that Maddie adjusts to this life of hardship really well, all of which is heightened by her growing friendship with the handsome Viking leader, Geir Eskilsson, whose tender strength is particularly attractive to this modern day Valkyrie.

Tempted by the Runes is such a pleasure to read. I have thoroughly enjoyed spending time with Maddie, Geir and the rest of the settlers as they learn to live in their new surroundings and start to gel as a community. Maddie's burgeoning attraction to the handsome, and charismatic leader, is beautifully imagined, and even though there's an instant chemistry between her and Geir, their relationship, as we discover, is far from guaranteed. And that's where the joy of the story lies, in getting to know these wonderful characters, and experiencing all the joy and heartbreak of living in 9th Century Iceland.

This is now the third book in the series of time travel novels which take us back to the time of the Vikings and whilst they can each be read as standalone stories there is some overlap of characters which helps to keep a lovely sense of continuity amongst these fascinating time travellers. All the stories are beautifully written and meticulously researched and Tempted by the Runes certainly keeps the spirit of these lovely stories alive with this deliciously, romantic tale.

[Jeanne Golden · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Five Star novel! Christina Courtenay has skillfully done her research into Viking history of the 9th century, and it shows in the details of the settlements, foods, ceremonies, buildings and materials, etc. You disappear into this period time, and while I might not want to live there myself, it is fascinating to learn so much about their way of life. Each time a question of how things were managed entered my mind, it was discussed. I think Ms. Courtenay is not only a Time Traveler, but a mind reader as well.

I really enjoyed this novel. I did like Geir, the male main character better, as he was more fleshed out and with Christina’s historical research, seemed more believable. Maddie, the female lead character, was annoying and immature, and at age 19 was neither going to university nor working, which seems unlikely in our modern age. But together the characters seem to work, especially while in the Viking timeline. The modern-day timeline, early in the book, and further on, also seems incomplete and rushed. The clash of beliefs and norms from the present to the past seemed forced, with freeing of the thralls (slaves) and hunting of animals known to be extinct in the future. Wouldn’t this interfere with the past, and have unknown repercussions in the future?

“Tempted By the Runes” is a historical fiction romance, with a unique way to time travel. And mud larking is involved – so if you are into finding discarded items from the past, maybe you’ll find a way to time travel as well.

I have not read the other two novels about the Viking brothers, but this works as a stand-alone book. When explanations are necessary to the new reader, they are worked so finely into the story that it is invisible, and not every writer can make this work. Having read this book, I am going to read her other ones as well. AND I want more stories please!

[Annabelle’s Life and Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Madison Bergerová, dcera hlavním hrdinů prvního dílu a sestra hlavní hrdinky dílu druhého, moc dobře chápe, co znamená cestování v čase, přece jenom její sestra a kamarádka mají tuhle zkušenost za sebou a dokonce tam našly lásku svého života. Tak proč to nezkusit také? Jenom na chvíli a pak zase domů, to by ale nesměl Madison vstoupit do cesty Geir Eskilsson - mladší bratr Vikingů z druhého a třetího dílu. To přece musí být osud, tahle podivná žena zná obě jeho švagrové, ona musí být jeho vyvolená.

Stejně jako v předchozích dílech, čeká na hlavní hrdinku pobyt v minulosti, který si musí chtě nechtě prodloužit. Naštěstí Madison celkem přesně ví, jak to v době Vikingů chodilo a co se od ní očekává. Geir ví, že mu Madison přihrály do života runy, proto se nechce vzdát ve svém nadbíhání a dokazuje jí, že je krásná, i když ona sama si to o sobě nemyslí. Prožijí spolu několik měsíců, ve kterých postupně zakládají osadu, hledají k sobě cestu a nakonec naleznou lásku. Je ale jasné, že bez překážek to nebude.

Vždy oceňuji, jak je krásně popsán život Vikingů, jejich zvyky a tradice a teď dokonce došlo i na život na Islandu a založení vlastní vesnice. Zajímavé bylo, jak se v knize řešil středověký nátlak na ženu, aby co nejdříve měla potomka. Ale… I když se autorka snaží o inovace v podobě jiného prostředí či průběhu setkání hlavních hrdinů, nelze si nevšimnout, že příběhy jsou v mnoha ohledech repetitivní. Zrovna jsem si u téhle knihy říkala, že zatím nenastala situace, kdy se někdo pokusí unést hlavní hrdinku a bude ji chtít zneuctít a hle, po pár kapitolách to přišlo.

Runy jsou má oblíbená oddechová série, to ano, ale tak nějak vždy doufám, že autorka vymyslí nějaké inovace. Příběh je vždycky velmi pěkný a čtivý, ale v mnohém nenabízí nic nového. Spoléhám, že další díl, kde je hlavním hrdinou adoptivní bratr Madison - Ivar, bude v mnohém jiný.

[Cami | Kingdoms and Tea🍂 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started this book not knowing this was part of a series so I was a little lost when I noticed the main characters were not surprised at all about the time traveling aspect, but I catch up very fast. I will mention that this is part of a series but you can read them as standalones, since each books shows a different couple!

I have to say that I ADORED this book. Reading about Vikings was fantastic and it made me want to read more books about them. But Vikings wasn’t all; the chemistry, the love, the found family, the consent and of course, the time traveling, made this an incredible read for me. I am so happy that I received an early copy and got the opportunity to enjoy this beauty before it’s release, so grateful.

The book follows Maddie, a young girl that finds a time traveling artifact and immediately feel the need to travel, especially since is nothing new for her and her family (her sister leaves in the past), and of course, curiosity. She travels 1000 years to the past, to Dublin, where she meets Geir, a very handsome Viking, that is in his way to Iceland, where Maddie ends up going as well. Geir plans to settle in Iceland, but the hardest work is to wins Maddie’s heart…

Maddie and Geir relationship is beautiful, based in consent and understanding, even when the times where cruel and different, Geir always respected her and tried to understand her views, while Maddie naturally fell to Geir’s kind nature.

Their relationships with the other members of the settlement was also great, and gave me the found family feeling that I always enjoy and love. There were many obstacles, drama and problems, but in the end, love and bonds always prevailed. Big shout out to Blar, Geir’s dog!

Can’t wait to get to her sister story and the rest of the releases!

I received this copy in exchange of an honest review ❤️

[Tiziana Langone · Rating 3 out of 5]

Can love stand the test of time?
 
Maddie is in Dublin for a Viking re – enactment festival. When one evening, she finds a small knife embedded in the banks of Liffey, she immediately knows it’s not a normal, ancient knife. Maddie knows how to read the runes on the knife, and she knows that the knife can take her back in the past.
After saying the words, she is suddenly in the 9th century and after a struggle, Maddie finds herself on a boat with the direction of Iceland, together with the man that saved her from her attackers.
When Geir Eskilsson discovers that the strange woman on his boat, has a connection with his sisters – in – law, he believes that his attraction towards her is also a trick by Fate, to bring them together.
But can Geir convince Maddie to stay with him and start a new life together in Iceland? Or will Maddie return to the Dublin she knows, to her family and friends?
 
I have to be honest, I initially struggled with this story. No matter how hard I tried, I found I very difficult to get attached to the characters. Maybe because time travelling is a concept I found very hard to grasp? But I knew what I started, and I was adamant to give it a few more chapters a shot before I would give up.
So I kept reading, and suddenly the chapters flew by and I found myself totally enthralled by the tale of Maddie and Geir.
And okay, Nordic names will never be easy for me, but to make to read easier for me, I changed the names a little into Tiziana – understandable 🤣.
 
I was very intrigued how Maddie would cope in a world where so many things are not known yet, and a lot of things that are basic to us, are not invented yet.
But also how the 9th century was a whole different lifestyle. And I am not only talking about material things. But the actual way of life, and mind-set is the total opposite of what we know. 
Maddie sees many things that in 2021 would be totally not done, and even if she knows she cannot divulge too much on changes in the future, she does her bit to make a few changes for the better.
 
Despite their huge differences, I truly enjoyed reading about Maddie and Geir. I admired Maddie’s determination to make some important changes, and I loved Geir’s wish to make Maddie happy. Even if he doesn’t understand what is wrong with some aspects of his way of life, he gives Maddie’s suggestions a shot and sees for himself what a change that can bring.
 
And I found it a bit funny how Geir just accepts that Fate brought him Maddie, while Maddie fights all her might to find a way to get back. And slowly realizes that maybe her future is with Geir after all?
 
After the initial struggle, I enjoyed reading this maybe impossible story (but who knows for real…). It shows us how little changes can have an important influence on the future. But also that sometimes, to find true love, it’s not about going forward, but about going back. And perhaps, after reading this book, we will all see that somehow all the luxury and comfort we have now, are all expendable and that with love, it doesn’t matter where (actual place but also in time) you are, because love is all that matters, even when you think that you are not good enough…

[Isabelle D · Rating 5 out of 5]

As we met three Viking brothers in The Runes of Destiny and the second one was the hero of Whispers of the Runes, it's no surprise that, in this new novel, it's Geir's turn to come across a time-travelling young woman. And who's that this time? Maddie, the now 19-year-old daughter of Mia and Haakon, whose story started the series in Echoes of the Runes. So, once again, I couldn't wait to read the book and, once again, I greatly enjoyed following the heroine back in time (even if I definitely wouldn't want to do it for real). Visiting Iceland was very nice, too (although I'm not sure I'd want to do that for real either because of the cold). And I also really liked the bonus short story at the end.
For new readers, it is possible to start here if you happen to have this book and not the others yet... but then I bet you'll want to know what happened before.

[Storied Conversation · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maddie’s family is more than a little obsessed with the Viking era. They do reenactments and even take courses in the Viking ways. When she travels back in time thanks to an artifact she is more than ready for whatever is thrown her way. At least she thinks she is. When she gets into trouble she is rescued by Geir. Once in his book she discovers they are headed for Iceland to start a settlement there.

I will say we learn a lot about the Vikings in this book and the day to day things they did to start their settlement. We learn the foods they eat, the way they travel, and the dangers they face. Although I will say I found it funny when Maddie attempts to teach them more modern ways. After all, sanitation and human rights are unheard of by the Vikings.

Overall this was an enjoyable read. I loved the characters, all of whom are well written. The locations and scenery are written beautifully as well. I will certainly be checking out other books from this author.

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. This review was originally posted on Storied Conversation

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Born centuries apart. Bound by a love that defied time.
Madison Berger is visiting Dublin with her family for a Viking re-enactment festival, when she chances upon a small knife embedded in the banks of the Liffey. Maddie recognises what the runes on the knife's handle signify: the chance to have her own adventures in the past.
Geir Eskilsson has left his family in Sweden to boldly carve out a life of his own. He is immediately drawn to Maddie, but when he learns of her connection to his sisters-in-law, he begins to believe that Fate has played a part in bringing them together. “
A fantastically written time travelling romance. Christina Courtenay’s style of writing has produced characters that you can’t help but will to survive within their new settlement and for their relationships to flourish whilst facing the hardships of the age.
The research that has been undertaken into the history of the Viking age and the way they would live is impressive. It allows for the scenery to leap off of the page and a clear picture to form within the readers mind, making this an even more enjoyable experience to read. This is a great addition to the series and one not too be missed.
I would like to thank NetGalley and headline for the access to this ARC.
#TemptedbytheRunes #NetGalley

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

When you start a Christina Courtenay’s story you know you are going to read a well-researched, entertaining, and compelling story.
This is the third I read in this series and always had a lot of fun, rooted for the characters and learned something new.
The attention to the details and historical accuracy is excellent, it’s like travelling back in time with the characters and living in a different age with them.
Maddie and Geir are a lovely couple, brought together by fate (the Norns) or luck, but I’m starting to think that there’s a sort of metaphysical plan that matches people through ages.
Maddie is not perfect: sometimes she’s a bit too rigid and sometimes she choose without asking what other think. But she’s also strong willed and sweet, a well rounded characters that slowly grew on me.
Geir is a perfect hero: brave, selfless and ready to fight to get the woman he love.
Their story is fascinating and loved it as much as I loved the setting and descriptions of everyday life.
I’m wondering what will be next but I’m sure it will be as entertaining as the other stories.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Christina Courtenay, Headline Review, Rachel's Random Resources, and Netgalley for this digital copy, all opinions are mine

[Jane Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maddie, and Gier, are relatable vibrant characters who set out on an adventurous, romantic journey. The author creates a believably vivid Viking world using historical detail and sensory imagery.

Maddie is a likeable, impulsive character whose character develops with her timeslip adventure. The reality of 9th century Viking life jars with her theoretical knowledge, and she has to accept this and learn to achieve her true potential in the Viking world. Gier has knowledge of time travel, and he sees the runes as a sign, Maddie and he will be together. The chemistry between them builds with emotional commitment and proximity. Maddie remains the biggest challenge to their happiness. Can a twenty-first-century woman be fulfilled in a 9th Century Viking world?

This is an engaging tale of danger and desire with characters who resonate.

I received a copy of this book from Headline via NetGalley in return for an honest review.