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In Love and War #1
North of the Stars
England is burning.And the cause...men are too afraid to utter in nothing but a whisper. The Northmen. My father is King Eanred. And me? I am Princess Emeline. My father wants to protect our kingdom against the ruthless Vikings who continue to raid England, so he has betrothed me to Aethelwulf, the son of King Egbert of Wessex-the most powerful realm in all of England. Without this union, Northumbria will fall, which is why I must submit. I must do this for my people. However, it is not in my nature to surrender. So when my father captures the most savage Viking known in our land, I do what no good, God-fearing Christian would do-I help him. His name...Skarth the Godless.People fear what they don't understand, but I will not allow that to control me. Fear makes us blind to the truth, and I refuse to cower because Skarth soon becomes my teacher-in all things. And when his rival, Ulf the Bloody, shatters my world, it becomes clear the lessons have only just begun.My soul is tarnished. I am a sinner. Lord, hear my prayer...
420 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2021
184 people are currently reading
3726 people want to read
About the author
Monica James
47 books2,765 followersMonica James spent her youth devouring the works of Anne Rice, William Shakespeare, and Emily Dickinson.
When she is not writing, Monica runs her own business, but she always finds a balance between the two. She enjoys writing twisted AF stories, hoping to terrify her readers...just a little.
She is a bestselling author in the U.S.A., Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Israel, and the U.K.
Monica James resides in Melbourne, Australia, with her Unicorn, and her three crazy cats. She is slightly obsessed with red lipstick, heels, and crime documentaries, and is that person who always runs late.
Stalk Me:
Website: authormonicajames.com
Facebook: facebook.com/authormonicajames
Goodreads: goodreads.com/MonicaJames
Instagram: @authormonicajames
TikTok: @authormonicajames
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2E3eCIw
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2EWZSyS
Reader Group: http://bit.ly/2nUaRyi
Newsletter: https://tinyurl.com/mvjjk6k2
When she is not writing, Monica runs her own business, but she always finds a balance between the two. She enjoys writing twisted AF stories, hoping to terrify her readers...just a little.
She is a bestselling author in the U.S.A., Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Israel, and the U.K.
Monica James resides in Melbourne, Australia, with her Unicorn, and her three crazy cats. She is slightly obsessed with red lipstick, heels, and crime documentaries, and is that person who always runs late.
Stalk Me:
Website: authormonicajames.com
Facebook: facebook.com/authormonicajames
Goodreads: goodreads.com/MonicaJames
Instagram: @authormonicajames
TikTok: @authormonicajames
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2E3eCIw
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2EWZSyS
Reader Group: http://bit.ly/2nUaRyi
Newsletter: https://tinyurl.com/mvjjk6k2
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 380 reviews
December 4, 2021
Y'all those arc reviews are lying. I've waited for this book for such a long time, and now that I read it, not only was it highly disappointing, but this book was terrible. I hated all the characters, the hero is disgusting and disloyal, the om is gross (still want that om drama tho cuz I hate the hero🙃), and the heroine is pathetic for pining after the hero. I honestly can't imagine the series getting any better, and I feel like the blurb (and that pretty cover 😰) is super deceiving. My first Monica James book, and will probably be my last (I didn't vibe with the writing at all either)
Safety: NOT safe at all (deets in the comments)
Safety: NOT safe at all (deets in the comments)
December 3, 2021
3.5 stars
I've had to sit on this one awhile before I rated it. This is a dark romance. Our heroine spends three years of the book from 14-17 being raped. She's sexually assaulted multiple times. People have their heads chopped off. It's dark and gritty, so know that going in.
I am a historical romance reader and really love old school historical romances, and this one really felt like an old bodice ripper from the 80s. Skarth is forced to work with the enemy in order to get back his family. He trains the enemy army to defeat his people and trains Emeline, the princess. They fall for each other, but nothing actually happens between them for along time because she's given away for a marriage of convenience. In the beginning, I did like the romance and the angst behind it being forbidden. He's the enemy and she's the princess. However, I want to say that for 60% of this book, the hero and heroine are apart. This is the first in a series, but I really don't like reading books where the couples spend so much time apart. I feel like I didn't feel the depth and connection Emeline claimed to have with Skarth because we didn't see them together and growing in love enough. I understood it, but felt like a little more connection was missing for me. There is cheating in here, but I didn't necessarily have a problem with this (though I wasn't a fan of what the significant other of a specific character ended up doing).
While this isn't a fantasy, this really read like one because there were a lot of characters and politics going on. That being said, I would have like a bit more world building and time spent on understanding the political alliances and characters. Things rushed a little too quickly for me and it seemed like the heroine was constantly kidnapped or heading out to the next battle. This also turns into a sort of love triangle, and I still don't know if the heroine genuinely likes the other guy or if he was thrown in for more of a conflict for her. I do love a good love triangle, though, so this did leave me more intrigued. I did like the direction the book took in the end and I am interested enough to pick up book two. But as someone who has been reading a lot of historical romances, especially older historical romances, this year, this one left some more to be desired.
I've had to sit on this one awhile before I rated it. This is a dark romance. Our heroine spends three years of the book from 14-17 being raped. She's sexually assaulted multiple times. People have their heads chopped off. It's dark and gritty, so know that going in.
I am a historical romance reader and really love old school historical romances, and this one really felt like an old bodice ripper from the 80s. Skarth is forced to work with the enemy in order to get back his family. He trains the enemy army to defeat his people and trains Emeline, the princess. They fall for each other, but nothing actually happens between them for along time because she's given away for a marriage of convenience. In the beginning, I did like the romance and the angst behind it being forbidden. He's the enemy and she's the princess. However, I want to say that for 60% of this book, the hero and heroine are apart. This is the first in a series, but I really don't like reading books where the couples spend so much time apart. I feel like I didn't feel the depth and connection Emeline claimed to have with Skarth because we didn't see them together and growing in love enough. I understood it, but felt like a little more connection was missing for me. There is cheating in here, but I didn't necessarily have a problem with this (though I wasn't a fan of what the significant other of a specific character ended up doing).
While this isn't a fantasy, this really read like one because there were a lot of characters and politics going on. That being said, I would have like a bit more world building and time spent on understanding the political alliances and characters. Things rushed a little too quickly for me and it seemed like the heroine was constantly kidnapped or heading out to the next battle. This also turns into a sort of love triangle, and I still don't know if the heroine genuinely likes the other guy or if he was thrown in for more of a conflict for her. I do love a good love triangle, though, so this did leave me more intrigued. I did like the direction the book took in the end and I am interested enough to pick up book two. But as someone who has been reading a lot of historical romances, especially older historical romances, this year, this one left some more to be desired.
December 6, 2021
OMG!!!! Words cannot express how much I fucking LOVED this book! One of my top reads of the year without question! RTC
December 2, 2021
Warning... I am going to RAGE.
.
I honestly despise this book... and no one is sadder then me. I see all the 5 star reviews for this, and I get it. But 70% of this book was pure agony for me and I only finished it because I couldn't believe I was reading what I was.
A lot of it is for personal reasons. This book has almost every single trope and situation that I hate all wrapped up in a pretty package. And I don't even mean the content warnings which I didn't see anyone mention that I saw.
Things I hated:
-Hero rejected heroine and then she gets raped anyway. Repeatedly. For 3 years. (Yes, I know he was sparing a "child", but she was literally being married off... what did he think was going to happen on her wedding night?)
-He pines for her but marries someone else anyway. Then rolls into to save her anyway, abandoning said wife.
-Heroine gets another love interest.
-Hero has a threesome where she can see (with her enemy no less), but that sex is okay cause it's only physical .
-Hero and heroine are hardly even together in this... there was barely any romance between them.
-they finally have sex around 76% and he is STILL MARRIED. But it's okay because his devoted wife doesn't mind if he cheats on the road...
That's just a few.
Oh yeah... and that "wife"... she's evil now... so I guess it was okay we cheated. 🤬🤬
Also.. Cliffhanger and we have 2 men wanting the heroine. Honestly, I like the second guy better.
I'm just tired now, and I wasted 4 hours on this book.
2/5 Stars and the 2 stars are for the cover.
TW: rape, assault, still birth
.
I honestly despise this book... and no one is sadder then me. I see all the 5 star reviews for this, and I get it. But 70% of this book was pure agony for me and I only finished it because I couldn't believe I was reading what I was.
A lot of it is for personal reasons. This book has almost every single trope and situation that I hate all wrapped up in a pretty package. And I don't even mean the content warnings which I didn't see anyone mention that I saw.
Things I hated:
-Hero rejected heroine and then she gets raped anyway. Repeatedly. For 3 years. (Yes, I know he was sparing a "child", but she was literally being married off... what did he think was going to happen on her wedding night?)
-He pines for her but marries someone else anyway. Then rolls into to save her anyway, abandoning said wife.
-Heroine gets another love interest.
-Hero has a threesome where she can see (with her enemy no less), but that sex is okay cause it's only physical .
-Hero and heroine are hardly even together in this... there was barely any romance between them.
-they finally have sex around 76% and he is STILL MARRIED. But it's okay because his devoted wife doesn't mind if he cheats on the road...
That's just a few.
Oh yeah... and that "wife"... she's evil now... so I guess it was okay we cheated. 🤬🤬
Also.. Cliffhanger and we have 2 men wanting the heroine. Honestly, I like the second guy better.
I'm just tired now, and I wasted 4 hours on this book.
2/5 Stars and the 2 stars are for the cover.
TW: rape, assault, still birth
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 23, 2021
3.5 stars
I know I’m in the minority with my rating, because I didn’t love this as much as previous readers, but I didn’t flat out hate it either.
So here’s the thing, I’ve just come off from re-watching ‘The last Kingdom’ which is on Netflix which I loved!! And binge watching a few others in the same vein. So I was still riding that high.
And….
I know I shouldn’t compare the two for obvious reasons.
But…
Going into this I had such high hopes and high expectations that I would encounter a fierce female warrior, which we got to an extent, but I think that was overshadowed with her dramatic past happenings, her kidnappings and always getting into trouble of some sort, so for the life of me I didn’t connect with the one in this book and it pains me to say that.
I’m hoping as the series progresses my mind changes as she grows and develops.
I know I’m in the minority with my rating, because I didn’t love this as much as previous readers, but I didn’t flat out hate it either.
So here’s the thing, I’ve just come off from re-watching ‘The last Kingdom’ which is on Netflix which I loved!! And binge watching a few others in the same vein. So I was still riding that high.
And….
I know I shouldn’t compare the two for obvious reasons.
But…
Going into this I had such high hopes and high expectations that I would encounter a fierce female warrior, which we got to an extent, but I think that was overshadowed with her dramatic past happenings, her kidnappings and always getting into trouble of some sort, so for the life of me I didn’t connect with the one in this book and it pains me to say that.
I’m hoping as the series progresses my mind changes as she grows and develops.
December 7, 2021
This was what I needed!
I LOVED THIS BOOK. This story was perfect, reminds me two series I love .
Thank you Monica. I can’t wait for read the next book.
I LOVED THIS BOOK. This story was perfect, reminds me two series I love .
Thank you Monica. I can’t wait for read the next book.
December 12, 2021
HARD PASS.
And this is why I do not trust, by any means, ARC reader ratings & reviews.
This ticked all my hard limits when it comes to my romance reads, and I thank God for small mercies — aka ACTUAL and honest book reviewers who don't bullshit.
I have never read anything from this author and I don't think I ever will if this is the kind of content she writes (and likes). #sorrynotsorry
Check out these reviews for more details:
my link text
my link text
And this is why I do not trust, by any means, ARC reader ratings & reviews.
This ticked all my hard limits when it comes to my romance reads, and I thank God for small mercies — aka ACTUAL and honest book reviewers who don't bullshit.
I have never read anything from this author and I don't think I ever will if this is the kind of content she writes (and likes). #sorrynotsorry
Check out these reviews for more details:
my link text
my link text
November 21, 2021
OMG! HOLY SHIT! OMG!
I'm breathless and agitated and I don't know what to do with myself now, after reading this book.
I knew she could write incredible books, but this book is definitely the best she has written to date.
It's dark, gripping and incredibly fascinating but also incredibly brutal.
If you're looking for sweet and swoony romance, this book is definitely not for you.
This historical fiction romance is a spellbinding story about times when the Vikings were looking for new places to live.
They, of course, have not been gentle and kind in the methods they have chosen to take the places.
But neither were those times when the English kings had noble methods of improving their positions of power.
Daughters of the nobles in those times had only one value and that was trading them to the highest bidder for more power or wealth.
To say times have been difficult and discriminatory for women is an understatement.
The men could just do what they wanted and no one stepped in and defended them and trust me they did incredible horrible things to naive and defenseless little girls.
No, Monica has not spared us all the bad terrible details, what has happen to them. This book is definitely not for faint-hearted audience.
The characters in this story are not always as you expect. Yes, they are hard-edged and authentic warriors and brutal monsters on both sides.
They're self-absorbed and selfish too. Some of them more than others.
The main character, princess Emeline is definitely my favorite badass heroine ever. From the weak and naive girl at the beginning, she has developed into a strong and smart woman that, although she has to endure more than anyone could handle, never gives up fighting for her freedom.
I don't know how the hell I'm supposed to wait for the next book after this epic cliffhanger Monica 😭
Oh, and I'm team Ulf 😉😂
I'm breathless and agitated and I don't know what to do with myself now, after reading this book.
I knew she could write incredible books, but this book is definitely the best she has written to date.
It's dark, gripping and incredibly fascinating but also incredibly brutal.
If you're looking for sweet and swoony romance, this book is definitely not for you.
This historical fiction romance is a spellbinding story about times when the Vikings were looking for new places to live.
They, of course, have not been gentle and kind in the methods they have chosen to take the places.
But neither were those times when the English kings had noble methods of improving their positions of power.
Daughters of the nobles in those times had only one value and that was trading them to the highest bidder for more power or wealth.
To say times have been difficult and discriminatory for women is an understatement.
The men could just do what they wanted and no one stepped in and defended them and trust me they did incredible horrible things to naive and defenseless little girls.
No, Monica has not spared us all the bad terrible details, what has happen to them. This book is definitely not for faint-hearted audience.
The characters in this story are not always as you expect. Yes, they are hard-edged and authentic warriors and brutal monsters on both sides.
They're self-absorbed and selfish too. Some of them more than others.
The main character, princess Emeline is definitely my favorite badass heroine ever. From the weak and naive girl at the beginning, she has developed into a strong and smart woman that, although she has to endure more than anyone could handle, never gives up fighting for her freedom.
I don't know how the hell I'm supposed to wait for the next book after this epic cliffhanger Monica 😭
Oh, and I'm team Ulf 😉😂
December 19, 2021
Dnf @30%
I'm sorry. I cannot. This book is absolutely terrible and now I'm sad because I was excited for it. Wtf.
All the reasons why I'm so pissed off...
Ok, so the story starts out when the fmc is 12 and the mmc is 18. But that doesn't matter because they don't start out romantically, just a connection so I didn't mind it so much. Point is at 12 the fmc get lashed by her brother until she is scarred in the back and then the brother threatens to fuck her up the ass if she disrespect the king/father again.
Then the story moves on to when she is 14 and mmc is 20. Where she sees him getting a bj from someone else and gets jealous. Which she then gets mad about and ends up having her first period. Which means she could get married now to the arrangement her father had to someone twice her age.
She disrespect ther father and he throws her in the dungeon for 2 months. Which she later escape buts decided to return for her people and blah fucking blah. But before that mmc finds her and his excuse for not helping her out the dungeon was bc she was just mad and needed space and that he didn't know that she was in the dungeon. Like dude, really? Are you that stupid
She then proceeds to ask him to take her virginity as a last effort to cancel her arrange marriage but he declines but he was so cruel about it. Like has her in all fours about to do it before she started screaming to stop
So she return to the castle and gets married. Do I need to remind you that she is fucking 14 years old?! Her husband (twice her age) already has a mistress & parades her around her. And on their wedding night he slaps, yells and rapes her. And when he is finished, he leaves so his fucking pig of a father can come in a rape her too!!!
And this goes on for 3 years (ages 14-17) because the next chapter is a time jump. Which at this point I just gave up. Couldn't do it anymore.
Then I read other reviews which just made me glad I dnf. Now I just need to cool off and forget I ever read it
I'm sorry. I cannot. This book is absolutely terrible and now I'm sad because I was excited for it. Wtf.
All the reasons why I'm so pissed off...
Ok, so the story starts out when the fmc is 12 and the mmc is 18. But that doesn't matter because they don't start out romantically, just a connection so I didn't mind it so much. Point is at 12 the fmc get lashed by her brother until she is scarred in the back and then the brother threatens to fuck her up the ass if she disrespect the king/father again.
Then the story moves on to when she is 14 and mmc is 20. Where she sees him getting a bj from someone else and gets jealous. Which she then gets mad about and ends up having her first period. Which means she could get married now to the arrangement her father had to someone twice her age.
She disrespect ther father and he throws her in the dungeon for 2 months. Which she later escape buts decided to return for her people and blah fucking blah. But before that mmc finds her and his excuse for not helping her out the dungeon was bc she was just mad and needed space and that he didn't know that she was in the dungeon. Like dude, really? Are you that stupid
She then proceeds to ask him to take her virginity as a last effort to cancel her arrange marriage but he declines but he was so cruel about it. Like has her in all fours about to do it before she started screaming to stop
So she return to the castle and gets married. Do I need to remind you that she is fucking 14 years old?! Her husband (twice her age) already has a mistress & parades her around her. And on their wedding night he slaps, yells and rapes her. And when he is finished, he leaves so his fucking pig of a father can come in a rape her too!!!
And this goes on for 3 years (ages 14-17) because the next chapter is a time jump. Which at this point I just gave up. Couldn't do it anymore.
Then I read other reviews which just made me glad I dnf. Now I just need to cool off and forget I ever read it
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 20, 2021
Wow. Well, this was far better than what I had imagined!!! Give me dark, angst and slow burn and you have me. This book had it all.
Just a warning, this is a dark historical romance with a hero that will make you so frustrated you might throw your Kindle against the wall. Yes, I am talking about Skarth.
I absolutely loved our Princess . She was badass and so brave!!!!! I am literally salivating for the next book. BEWARE that the book is about Vikings and our hero is not....particularly loyal to our heroine. Their relationship is complicated.
Also, I am so rooting for Ulf.... Ahem. I kinda love him and I want to see more of him.
Thank you to the author for letting me read this PHENOMENAL book early. I cannot wait for more.
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Just a warning, this is a dark historical romance with a hero that will make you so frustrated you might throw your Kindle against the wall. Yes, I am talking about Skarth.
I absolutely loved our Princess . She was badass and so brave!!!!! I am literally salivating for the next book. BEWARE that the book is about Vikings and our hero is not....particularly loyal to our heroine. Their relationship is complicated.
Also, I am so rooting for Ulf.... Ahem. I kinda love him and I want to see more of him.
Thank you to the author for letting me read this PHENOMENAL book early. I cannot wait for more.
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Want to read
December 15, 2021I'm so giddy!! We have a cheating book! We have an arsehole hero book! We have a love triangle book. Please read the 1 star review below for the best synopsis of our cheater. Two bads, it ends on a cliff hanger and I've never read a Monica James book, so not sure about writing skill. But I just bought it, so I'll post in a few days. Wish me luck cheater gals!!!! Yes I know there are a lot of !!!!!!!!!!!!!! but!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!We haven't had a lot of CHEATING BOOKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!🤣
December 2, 2021
DNF - SPOILERS BELOW
WTAF did I just read?!? Did I read the same book as y'all? Wtf. How did so many of you like this??
First of all, SERIOUS CONTENT WARNING. So many r*pe and s*xual assault scenes.
The main female character is awful, the make characters are awful, the same trope repeats like 5 times (seriously, how many times can a woman get kidnapped?) AND SHE BITES OFF SOME GUYS, well... you know. That's when I deleted it from my kindle library bc WTAF.
It's a violent terrible world in that book and I feel like I need a shower after trying to read about it.
WTAF did I just read?!? Did I read the same book as y'all? Wtf. How did so many of you like this??
First of all, SERIOUS CONTENT WARNING. So many r*pe and s*xual assault scenes.
The main female character is awful, the make characters are awful, the same trope repeats like 5 times (seriously, how many times can a woman get kidnapped?) AND SHE BITES OFF SOME GUYS, well... you know. That's when I deleted it from my kindle library bc WTAF.
It's a violent terrible world in that book and I feel like I need a shower after trying to read about it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2023
This review won’t have EVERYTHING (allll the sex scenes and allll the content warnings because honestly I got exhausted and annoyed and lazy towards the end. But you should have a feel for what to expect and if this book will work for you)
Overall: ⭐️⭐️
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔 - This is for the heroine. Skarth would be a 1 as I feel like I know hardly anything about him
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥 (There’s more sex in here than this but some was between other people or not involving the heroine so I didn’t count)
Humor: Not really
Perspective: First person from both the hero and heroine but heavily on the heroine’s amount.
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )
Should I read in order?
This is the first book of James’s In Love and War series and should be read in order as this ends on a cliffhanger and book 2 picks up after this story.
Basic plot:
Princess Emeline is a pawn in the game of kings in England while they fight with invading vikings.
Give this a try if you want:
- More of a historical fiction feel – this has romantic elements but I wouldn’t classify it as a romance (and have heard the final book doesn’t have a true HEA, but I won’t be reading to find out)
- late 700s-early 800s time period (early middle ages?) during the rule of King Egbert
- you’re okay with basically every content warning ever
Ages:
- Heroine is 18. Is there a hero? There’s a man that’s 23 here if that counts...
My thoughts:
This book could have been SO GOOD!!! And honestly I was still liking it up to about 40% (despite all the heavy content warnings). If I had better behavior from the hero it could have been redeemed.
Ultimately this book didn’t work for me as the hero and heroine were barely together. There is a huge amount of content warnings, which I’m okay with, but they also just never stopped...it was the entire book, horrible thing after horrible thing happening, some it felt like just for shock factor. And I am okay with gore and all that too...but I read romance for the romance and I didn’t find anything romantic about this book. The “hero” was a huge disappointment and I will not be reading the follow up because I just don’t think it will be worth it (I did peek at a few spoilers that make me validated in my choice)
Specifics below
Content warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Overall: ⭐️⭐️
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔 - This is for the heroine. Skarth would be a 1 as I feel like I know hardly anything about him
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥 (There’s more sex in here than this but some was between other people or not involving the heroine so I didn’t count)
Humor: Not really
Perspective: First person from both the hero and heroine but heavily on the heroine’s amount.
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )
Should I read in order?
This is the first book of James’s In Love and War series and should be read in order as this ends on a cliffhanger and book 2 picks up after this story.
Basic plot:
Princess Emeline is a pawn in the game of kings in England while they fight with invading vikings.
Give this a try if you want:
- More of a historical fiction feel – this has romantic elements but I wouldn’t classify it as a romance (and have heard the final book doesn’t have a true HEA, but I won’t be reading to find out)
- late 700s-early 800s time period (early middle ages?) during the rule of King Egbert
- you’re okay with basically every content warning ever
Ages:
- Heroine is 18. Is there a hero? There’s a man that’s 23 here if that counts...
My thoughts:
This book could have been SO GOOD!!! And honestly I was still liking it up to about 40% (despite all the heavy content warnings). If I had better behavior from the hero it could have been redeemed.
Ultimately this book didn’t work for me as the hero and heroine were barely together. There is a huge amount of content warnings, which I’m okay with, but they also just never stopped...it was the entire book, horrible thing after horrible thing happening, some it felt like just for shock factor. And I am okay with gore and all that too...but I read romance for the romance and I didn’t find anything romantic about this book. The “hero” was a huge disappointment and I will not be reading the follow up because I just don’t think it will be worth it (I did peek at a few spoilers that make me validated in my choice)
Specifics below
Content warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
December 1, 2021
⭐️ 5+ "Warrior" Stars ⭐️
North of the Stars was an EPIC read! It left me with such a book hanghover! It's been days since I finished my read and I'm still obsessing over this story! It was so different from what I usually read, but it still got all the feels and passion I love about Monica James's writing. Needless to say I was hooked from the start! This author likes to work with multiple genres and she once again proved her versatility with this Historical Viking romance.
"𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝒉𝒊𝒕 𝒎𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒕𝒉𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒎, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰'𝒎 𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒅𝒓𝒐𝒘𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒏."
Princess Emeline and Skarth the Godless's story is one of star-crossed lovers. The impossibility of their relationship was truly agonizing. The bond they seemlesly forged was beautiful, but so cruel. The heartbreak exuding from their every interaction and the injustice of their situation made me hurt for them. Seriously, this novel made me ache so badly from all the angst!
Emeline is such a courageous heroine, born in a time where she must submit to her father's rules. She's determined to dictate her own future, despite her duty. I was in awe of her strength through all the adversity she faces in her young life. Her curiosity and bravery makes her fearless, but reckless at times. She's without a doubt very intriguing to Skarth with all this fierceness. I really loved Skarth and his devotion to Emeline. He's captivated by her personality, but knows she's not for him. He's protective of her and would do absolutely anything for her even denying himself from her.
"𝑰 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒐𝒘𝒏𝒆𝒅... 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝑰 𝒃𝒆𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝒉𝒖𝒈𝒓𝒆𝒌𝒌𝒊."
As if this story wasn't angst filled enough with these two, there was also other potential love interests introduced. Above all the romantic drama, North of the Stars is also a tale depicting some barbare scenes between Saxons and Vikings battling for territories. It's an addictive read for sure with so many unexpected events twists. I'm so eager to get the next installment in the In Love and War Series after that shocking ending.
** ARC received in exchange for an honest review **
March 30, 2025
Beautifully researched and completely immersive, this historical romance is chock full of Viking lore, a clash of cultures, and star-crossed romance. The characters are deliciously flawed and powerfully affecting, their story full of angst, longing, heartbreak, and conflicting fates. It's been a while since I've read a historical romance, and this one truly transported me to another time and place. But the romance reigns supreme, and it is enchanting.
Creatively, this story is inspired. Monica whisks us away into the embattled Viking ages- when savage Norseman raid and conquer- their ways of battle, and of life, shocking and ravaging the English kingdoms. If you’ve loved shows like Vikings or the Last Kingdom, the lore, the world, and the tensions will feel familiar- as both this story and those shows are steeped in real historical characters and Viking lore. And this story, like their history, is wild, brutal, passionate, and chock full of drama. Here we follow the story of the Northumbrian princess Emeline, a young woman trying to find her place amidst the machinations of power-hungry men. She longs to be a warrior, to be more than her duty, more than a pawn in the agendas of callous men. And then she meets captured Viking warrior Skarth- a meeting that ultimately doesn’t much change the course of her fate at first, but most certainly changes the beat of her heart.
Even if you aren’t into historical romance, this is still a story that is accessible. It is definitely full of historical turns of phrase and old world morays, but Monica writes with such an engaging and capable hand, that you can’t help but be consumed by this world. And Emeline is truly a treasure- and truth be told, right now the only character that fully owns my heart. Monica doesn’t shy away from being real about the brutality of this era- including the roles and injustices suffered by women stuck powerless, chess pieces in men’s games. And She suffers- her journey is painful, frustrating, and heartbreaking in places- but I also adore her self-actualization. How Viking culture helps a once powerless and innocent girl transform into an embattled but powerful and capable warrior.
The romantic in me struggled with some aspects of this story though. We have a bit of a love triangle set up, a trope that I don’t particularly enjoy- though fate (and POVs) may indicate a clear victor. Even so, I have frustrations and disappointments with both of them. And a lot of those disappointments come from Monica’s commitment to staying true to the culture and gender dynamics of this era. Their hearts don’t always align to the acts of their bodies- and I hated that for Emeline, particularly because their disappointments often lead to the most painful situations for her. But, they are each interesting and complicated- and each has deeply flawed motivations and choices but what seems to be a real love for our heroine. The chemistry has the epic feeling of star crossed stories - two souls meant to dwell in harmony but ripped apart by their circumstance and their cultures.
The burn is slower, and the ending of the story really picked up the romantic pace. The cliffhanger leaves us with loads of questions and worries, and even if Skarth and Ulf haven’t quite earned my love, I’m hopeful they will in the second part- and more importantly, I hope they find the emotional courage they need to earn Emeline's forgiveness and love.
Creatively, this story is inspired. Monica whisks us away into the embattled Viking ages- when savage Norseman raid and conquer- their ways of battle, and of life, shocking and ravaging the English kingdoms. If you’ve loved shows like Vikings or the Last Kingdom, the lore, the world, and the tensions will feel familiar- as both this story and those shows are steeped in real historical characters and Viking lore. And this story, like their history, is wild, brutal, passionate, and chock full of drama. Here we follow the story of the Northumbrian princess Emeline, a young woman trying to find her place amidst the machinations of power-hungry men. She longs to be a warrior, to be more than her duty, more than a pawn in the agendas of callous men. And then she meets captured Viking warrior Skarth- a meeting that ultimately doesn’t much change the course of her fate at first, but most certainly changes the beat of her heart.
Even if you aren’t into historical romance, this is still a story that is accessible. It is definitely full of historical turns of phrase and old world morays, but Monica writes with such an engaging and capable hand, that you can’t help but be consumed by this world. And Emeline is truly a treasure- and truth be told, right now the only character that fully owns my heart. Monica doesn’t shy away from being real about the brutality of this era- including the roles and injustices suffered by women stuck powerless, chess pieces in men’s games. And She suffers- her journey is painful, frustrating, and heartbreaking in places- but I also adore her self-actualization. How Viking culture helps a once powerless and innocent girl transform into an embattled but powerful and capable warrior.
The romantic in me struggled with some aspects of this story though. We have a bit of a love triangle set up, a trope that I don’t particularly enjoy- though fate (and POVs) may indicate a clear victor. Even so, I have frustrations and disappointments with both of them. And a lot of those disappointments come from Monica’s commitment to staying true to the culture and gender dynamics of this era. Their hearts don’t always align to the acts of their bodies- and I hated that for Emeline, particularly because their disappointments often lead to the most painful situations for her. But, they are each interesting and complicated- and each has deeply flawed motivations and choices but what seems to be a real love for our heroine. The chemistry has the epic feeling of star crossed stories - two souls meant to dwell in harmony but ripped apart by their circumstance and their cultures.
The burn is slower, and the ending of the story really picked up the romantic pace. The cliffhanger leaves us with loads of questions and worries, and even if Skarth and Ulf haven’t quite earned my love, I’m hopeful they will in the second part- and more importantly, I hope they find the emotional courage they need to earn Emeline's forgiveness and love.
December 1, 2021
When I first learned about North of the Stars (In Love & War 1), I thought -- Vikings? I typically don’t read historical romances, but I LOVE the author, Monica James, so I decided to read it. I can’t even believe I wavered at the thought of reading this book. The Viking world might be my new character catnip! I literally need the next book like I need my next breath. This book played out like a movie in my head. I got lost in this all-consuming world of heathen Vikings and scandalous medieval royalty. This book was unputdownable, and I didn’t want it ever to end. North of the Stars is a runaway train of revenge, loyalty, and sins of the heart and soul. This complex and intense tale takes on a Braveheart and Game of Thrones 2.0 vibe. North of the Stars is absolute Kindle Crack. This is Monica James at her very best! NotS is on my Best of 2021 book list!
July 15, 2022
3.5 messed up stars
bitch???? I’m off to book 2 immediately. This was some fucked up goodness.
Dark romance >>>>>> everything else.
Praise oden
bitch???? I’m off to book 2 immediately. This was some fucked up goodness.
Dark romance >>>>>> everything else.
Praise oden
December 2, 2021
3 Stars ⭐️
December 10, 2021
This book is fantastic.
Honestly, when I started, I was a little disappointed. The beginning is slow, but then the book becomes impossible to put aside. An epic novel spanning thousands of years, love, heartbreak, tragedy and of course Vikings, this book will pull you in and leave you with tears streaming down your face (at least it did for me).
Honestly, when I started, I was a little disappointed. The beginning is slow, but then the book becomes impossible to put aside. An epic novel spanning thousands of years, love, heartbreak, tragedy and of course Vikings, this book will pull you in and leave you with tears streaming down your face (at least it did for me).
May 30, 2022
“The brightest light in the sky, it’s always found north of the stars. The North Star, an anchor to where I will find you.”
I've had this one on my tablet and TBR for awhile and wasn't sure about starting it becausei didn't think I would like it. A book friend told me I needed to read it because I would love it and she was definitely right.
“You were mine from the moment we met,” he says, eyes locked with mine. “I never wanted to be owned…but I belong to you, hugrekki.”
This story was not at all what I expected but everything I hoped for.......angst, suspense and a consuming page turner. We're given a strong-minded heroine, an arrogant, loyal hero and a story that will enthrall you from the first page until the cliffhanger ending.
“I belong to you, Skarth the Godless. I always have. I always will,” I confess, pressing my lips to his. “My heart is eternally yours. As is my body. I dream of the day when we can roam freely, unashamed of the…love we share.”
Prepare yourself for a story like no other that will have you devouring every page of the twists and turns that will leave you jaw-dropped!
I've had this one on my tablet and TBR for awhile and wasn't sure about starting it becausei didn't think I would like it. A book friend told me I needed to read it because I would love it and she was definitely right.
“You were mine from the moment we met,” he says, eyes locked with mine. “I never wanted to be owned…but I belong to you, hugrekki.”
This story was not at all what I expected but everything I hoped for.......angst, suspense and a consuming page turner. We're given a strong-minded heroine, an arrogant, loyal hero and a story that will enthrall you from the first page until the cliffhanger ending.
“I belong to you, Skarth the Godless. I always have. I always will,” I confess, pressing my lips to his. “My heart is eternally yours. As is my body. I dream of the day when we can roam freely, unashamed of the…love we share.”
Prepare yourself for a story like no other that will have you devouring every page of the twists and turns that will leave you jaw-dropped!
January 18, 2022
2.5 Stars
I am a huge fan of these Viking romances so this was such a disappointment. The characters were fantastic but they were so underdeveloped and the plot felt so rushed. There was no connection between the main love interests and this ended in a very underwhelming love triangle. I absolutely love triangles by the way so that says a lot. So much potential for this book to be phenomenal absolutely wasted.
I am a huge fan of these Viking romances so this was such a disappointment. The characters were fantastic but they were so underdeveloped and the plot felt so rushed. There was no connection between the main love interests and this ended in a very underwhelming love triangle. I absolutely love triangles by the way so that says a lot. So much potential for this book to be phenomenal absolutely wasted.
November 10, 2025
This story is amazing! I’m a huge fan of historical romances but not all of them that I’ve read I’ve loved they are honestly a hit or miss with me but let me tell you this was a definite hit ! Sooo good! The details the characters description just everything was amazing this is a book that’s definitely worth your attention!
December 11, 2021
NOOOOOOOOOOOO
November 29, 2021
Is there anything this woman CAN'T write?
North of the Stars is a Vikings historical romance and Monica James slayed it!
In this world, women were property and nothing more. Princess Emeline quickly finds out that she is a pawn. Oh how I love her! She's fierce even when she's all but broken. She's a force to be reckoned with!
Princess Emeline meets her Viking, Skarth the Godless when she is still a child. What they didn't know then but that chance meeting created an invisible knot that bound them together through thick and thin and everything in-between.
Oh my goodness, this story had me enraptured from the very beginning! There is so much angst and turmoil throughout this story. The brutality does not fade to black. Everything these characters face, us readers face right along with them.
The words fade and I'm living this story in my head.
Now let's dive in to the drama. There are so many twists and turns in this story! Monica James isn't going to make anything easy for our hero and heroine. It's truly an emotional rollercoaster!
There are other characters that come into play - some that I despised and some that have me falling for them. It's crazy how attached to this story I've become!
And that cliffhanger! I did not see that coming! I'm stunned and I need book two ASAP!
If you are a fan of Monica James, you need to read this. If you are a fan of historicals, you need to read this. If you are looking for your next five star read, you need to read this!
North of the Stars is a Vikings historical romance and Monica James slayed it!
In this world, women were property and nothing more. Princess Emeline quickly finds out that she is a pawn. Oh how I love her! She's fierce even when she's all but broken. She's a force to be reckoned with!
Princess Emeline meets her Viking, Skarth the Godless when she is still a child. What they didn't know then but that chance meeting created an invisible knot that bound them together through thick and thin and everything in-between.
Oh my goodness, this story had me enraptured from the very beginning! There is so much angst and turmoil throughout this story. The brutality does not fade to black. Everything these characters face, us readers face right along with them.
The words fade and I'm living this story in my head.
Now let's dive in to the drama. There are so many twists and turns in this story! Monica James isn't going to make anything easy for our hero and heroine. It's truly an emotional rollercoaster!
There are other characters that come into play - some that I despised and some that have me falling for them. It's crazy how attached to this story I've become!
And that cliffhanger! I did not see that coming! I'm stunned and I need book two ASAP!
If you are a fan of Monica James, you need to read this. If you are a fan of historicals, you need to read this. If you are looking for your next five star read, you need to read this!
December 2, 2021
I don’t know how to feel.. this wasn’t what I expected it to be… I didn’t care for the writing style - maybe if it was in third person it would’ve been worked better - or how young Emmeline was. I get it but I didn’t love that. I also wasn’t exactly bothered by Skarth’s threesome or him being married - I guess because I never really felt his connection to Emmeline in the first place. And then to introduce another love interest.. idk. But what really pisses me off is that this is apparently book 1 of a trilogy?? Why wasn’t that announced in the beginning? By the time the last one comes out, I’m gonna forget this one entirely - cause let’s face it, sorry but this will not be a reread for me. This is why I hate hyped books, they never wow me like they do everyone else. Don’t let the cover fool you like it fooled me! So dissatisfied.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2021
Game of Thrones married Vikings and North of the Stars by Monica James was born. It was full of drama, passion, action and heartbreaking emotions. Set in the background of Saxon - Vikings rivalry, it was war of hearts and battle of emotions. I am utterly broken and mesmerised with this dark and explosive historical romance.
.
Princess Emeline of Northumbria was always a rebel. She wanted to fight like a warrior. But her father and cruel king only looked at her like she is a trade weapon to be sold to Wessex for power and money. Sussex was getting ravaged by the Northmen or the Vikings and the king was ecstatic to capture Skarth the Godless in a battle. His life was spared because he agreed to teach them the war technique of the vikings. They didn't know that Skarth has a plan and he will avenge his countrymen. Emeline feels an instant connection with him and he agrees to train her in secret. But time doesn't stop. The years destroy Emeline. She is used and abused and treated like a wh0re after her marriage till Skarth comes to their kingdom. Can they escape? Can Emeline fight for her freedom? Can Skarth leave behind his family? And can they really beat the Saxon kings with help of the viking army and Ulf, once upon a time best friend of Skarth and who wants Emeline too?
.
Monica James proved she can write anything and that too, with flair and perfection. She created this whole world that is loosely based on history and I was transported to this whole new world instantly. It was raw. Gritty. Sometimes gory. Brutal. Heartbreaking. Aching. Mindbending. So many moving pieces and I was completely gone! My heart break over and over and over for Emeline. Such a brave, fierce, beautiful and unapologetically rebel character! She is the epitome of beauty and bravery. I salute her. She was dragged to the darkest of hell and she kept on fighting through everything for her freedom. A true warrior indeed. And then we have Skarth. I am Team Skarth firmly. While Ulf has his c0cky delicious arrogance and intensity, Skarth is the viking who won my heart and soul. He is torn between loyalty to his country and duty to his family. Divided between the need to protect Emeline and consume her and let her go at the same time. Powerful. Larger than life. Merciless killer and ruthless lover. Emeline and Skarth are Starcrossed lovers to the extreme and they had to make so many difficult decisions. Their connection is primitive and animalistic and all consuming and soul deep and heart wrenching. My heart is aching and bleeding for them. They are doomed but I will be praying for them as it's only a cliffhanger ending and the story has miles to go.
.
North of The Stars by Monica James will not be an easy story for you. She will challenge your limits and force you to face the extremes of heartbreak. And I am here for it. I am here for every sinful, epic, adrenaline filled, twisted and heartaching moment.
.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
.
Princess Emeline of Northumbria was always a rebel. She wanted to fight like a warrior. But her father and cruel king only looked at her like she is a trade weapon to be sold to Wessex for power and money. Sussex was getting ravaged by the Northmen or the Vikings and the king was ecstatic to capture Skarth the Godless in a battle. His life was spared because he agreed to teach them the war technique of the vikings. They didn't know that Skarth has a plan and he will avenge his countrymen. Emeline feels an instant connection with him and he agrees to train her in secret. But time doesn't stop. The years destroy Emeline. She is used and abused and treated like a wh0re after her marriage till Skarth comes to their kingdom. Can they escape? Can Emeline fight for her freedom? Can Skarth leave behind his family? And can they really beat the Saxon kings with help of the viking army and Ulf, once upon a time best friend of Skarth and who wants Emeline too?
.
Monica James proved she can write anything and that too, with flair and perfection. She created this whole world that is loosely based on history and I was transported to this whole new world instantly. It was raw. Gritty. Sometimes gory. Brutal. Heartbreaking. Aching. Mindbending. So many moving pieces and I was completely gone! My heart break over and over and over for Emeline. Such a brave, fierce, beautiful and unapologetically rebel character! She is the epitome of beauty and bravery. I salute her. She was dragged to the darkest of hell and she kept on fighting through everything for her freedom. A true warrior indeed. And then we have Skarth. I am Team Skarth firmly. While Ulf has his c0cky delicious arrogance and intensity, Skarth is the viking who won my heart and soul. He is torn between loyalty to his country and duty to his family. Divided between the need to protect Emeline and consume her and let her go at the same time. Powerful. Larger than life. Merciless killer and ruthless lover. Emeline and Skarth are Starcrossed lovers to the extreme and they had to make so many difficult decisions. Their connection is primitive and animalistic and all consuming and soul deep and heart wrenching. My heart is aching and bleeding for them. They are doomed but I will be praying for them as it's only a cliffhanger ending and the story has miles to go.
.
North of The Stars by Monica James will not be an easy story for you. She will challenge your limits and force you to face the extremes of heartbreak. And I am here for it. I am here for every sinful, epic, adrenaline filled, twisted and heartaching moment.
.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
December 2, 2021
This book gave me intense dreams.
My head is still all over the place but my heart physically ached for for the h.
She is mistreated by her brother, her father, her husband, her father in law and by her soul mate. She is so strong though.
I know why the author made the betrayer who it was but felt it was an easy way out to go forward.
The hard knocks to the h are continuous so it isn’t an easy read-especially from her soul mate (in the name of her being too good for him and accepting others’ lies about her welfare).
I was unaware that this was a trilogy. I may skip book 2 until 3 is out. I need the h to get her HEA.
My head is still all over the place but my heart physically ached for for the h.
She is mistreated by her brother, her father, her husband, her father in law and by her soul mate. She is so strong though.
I know why the author made the betrayer who it was but felt it was an easy way out to go forward.
The hard knocks to the h are continuous so it isn’t an easy read-especially from her soul mate (in the name of her being too good for him and accepting others’ lies about her welfare).
I was unaware that this was a trilogy. I may skip book 2 until 3 is out. I need the h to get her HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 2, 2021
Oh, my, Gods.
This was a movie.
I am obsessed with Vikings. Seriously. Ragnar, Ivar, Bjorn, etc. That series is fire so when I found out MJ was writing a Viking romance I was so hyped.
It did not disappoint.
I love the way this author manages to tell the story like it’s a movie playing in my head.
I adored the story, angst and drama between Skarth and Emeline. A Princess and a Northman should not make sense but they do.
Emeline is brave and kind. I love her and her warrior spirit even through the hardships.
Skarth is… well a Viking. That is his way. I love that the author kept it real and didn’t change how they behaved just because this is a romance. I loved that. Vikings are savages and it made my heart swoon that despite of that he found true love with Emeline.
Now… I NEED THE NEXT ONE!
Im conflicted 😂😍 I need to know what will happen next.
5 northern stars ✨
This was a movie.
I am obsessed with Vikings. Seriously. Ragnar, Ivar, Bjorn, etc. That series is fire so when I found out MJ was writing a Viking romance I was so hyped.
It did not disappoint.
I love the way this author manages to tell the story like it’s a movie playing in my head.
I adored the story, angst and drama between Skarth and Emeline. A Princess and a Northman should not make sense but they do.
Emeline is brave and kind. I love her and her warrior spirit even through the hardships.
Skarth is… well a Viking. That is his way. I love that the author kept it real and didn’t change how they behaved just because this is a romance. I loved that. Vikings are savages and it made my heart swoon that despite of that he found true love with Emeline.
Now… I NEED THE NEXT ONE!
Im conflicted 😂😍 I need to know what will happen next.
5 northern stars ✨
May 13, 2022
I haven't read something this addictive in awhile, this was so frickin good. The plot is everything and the story had me absolutely hooked from start to finish. I read this in one sitting, I couldn't get enough. There are no boring points in this book, and so many twists and turns that kept me turning the pages! I immediately started book 2!!! Please check TWs and spice was 2.5/5.
December 1, 2021
North of the Stars deserves all the stars!
This book consumed me. The storyline was easy to follow but had all the details so you felt like you were completely immersed into this world. I also loved getting to know these characters. Even the most horrible ones needed their place in this story and will have you cheering on when they get their due. Skarth the Godless is amazing; even with all his faults. His character is one that will make you swoon even after he does wrong. Princess Emeline must also be given all the stars as she is one of the strongest heroines I've ever read. For all that she endures in this story and for her to keep going is amazing.
This story is definitely one to just jump into. These vikings will steal your heart and have you wanting the next book ASAP!
This book consumed me. The storyline was easy to follow but had all the details so you felt like you were completely immersed into this world. I also loved getting to know these characters. Even the most horrible ones needed their place in this story and will have you cheering on when they get their due. Skarth the Godless is amazing; even with all his faults. His character is one that will make you swoon even after he does wrong. Princess Emeline must also be given all the stars as she is one of the strongest heroines I've ever read. For all that she endures in this story and for her to keep going is amazing.
This story is definitely one to just jump into. These vikings will steal your heart and have you wanting the next book ASAP!
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