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Viking Vengeance #1
Malice Striker
Can a mere mortal Viking tame the daughter of a goddess?
When Scotland’s King Kenneth orders his death and kidnaps his sister, the Viking Brökk—the Malice Striker—plans his he’ll steal the king’s bastard daughter from Sumbarten Abbey and use her to buy his sister's freedom. But his schemes go awry when his liege lord commands him to wed Skatha—and when he finds five women instead of one at the Abbey, none will claim the King as father.
When the Viking abducts Skatha and her women, she’s bewildered. Why did Brökk seize her? Why does he want her for his wife? She weds him willingly enough when he threatens to kill her companions, but she vows to control her own destiny and escape. For if the Viking discovers her secrets, the laws of his people will force him to cast her aside…or kill her. And even Skatha, daughter of a goddess, might not escape the Viking’s wrath…
When Scotland’s King Kenneth orders his death and kidnaps his sister, the Viking Brökk—the Malice Striker—plans his he’ll steal the king’s bastard daughter from Sumbarten Abbey and use her to buy his sister's freedom. But his schemes go awry when his liege lord commands him to wed Skatha—and when he finds five women instead of one at the Abbey, none will claim the King as father.
When the Viking abducts Skatha and her women, she’s bewildered. Why did Brökk seize her? Why does he want her for his wife? She weds him willingly enough when he threatens to kill her companions, but she vows to control her own destiny and escape. For if the Viking discovers her secrets, the laws of his people will force him to cast her aside…or kill her. And even Skatha, daughter of a goddess, might not escape the Viking’s wrath…
265 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 9, 2012
8 people are currently reading
370 people want to read
About the author
Jianne Carlo
40 books266 followersAward winning, author Jianne Carlo’s motto is simple: Alpha Me Please.
While strong heroines, exotic locations, and cultural differences are her forte, she goes weak in the knees for warriors of any type, rebels, SEAls, Vikings, and bad-ass mercenaries. Send her a man with an attitude and she’ll find the right woman to tame him.
Nothing makes Jianne’s day more than an email from someone who’s read one of her books. So far, she’s received emails from almost every continent on the planet. Almost…
While strong heroines, exotic locations, and cultural differences are her forte, she goes weak in the knees for warriors of any type, rebels, SEAls, Vikings, and bad-ass mercenaries. Send her a man with an attitude and she’ll find the right woman to tame him.
Nothing makes Jianne’s day more than an email from someone who’s read one of her books. So far, she’s received emails from almost every continent on the planet. Almost…
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
April 16, 2013
Story Rating 4 Stars
Character Rating 4 Stars
Romance Rating 4 Stars
Heat Level 4 Stars
Overall Rating 4 Stars
I really enjoyed this Viking Story. I thought the characters were done well and the romance between them wonderful. The heat level was VERY sensual and had me squirming in my seat. We do get a HEA but this story did not have an epilogue :-( This is book 1 in the series so I hope we get to hear more about Brokk, the hero and Skatha the heroine in the next book, Death Blow.
Character Rating 4 Stars
Romance Rating 4 Stars
Heat Level 4 Stars
Overall Rating 4 Stars
I really enjoyed this Viking Story. I thought the characters were done well and the romance between them wonderful. The heat level was VERY sensual and had me squirming in my seat. We do get a HEA but this story did not have an epilogue :-( This is book 1 in the series so I hope we get to hear more about Brokk, the hero and Skatha the heroine in the next book, Death Blow.
December 26, 2012
I love this author, but the names got so confusing at times, I didn't know if we were talking about a boat or a reason. But I still liked it.
3.5-4 stars.
3.5-4 stars.
August 19, 2014
This review can also be found on my blog.
This was my first read by Jianne Carlo, and I was pleasantly surprised. When I read the first few pages, my first thought was “uh oh”. Why? Well, the story takes place in the 10th century AD, and the characters are Vikings. What you get are complicated names to pronounce and the dialogue for that time period is not one that I’m used to reading a lot of. However, I was hooked from the beginning, so I am glad that I decided to stick with it and see where the story went.
Skatha and Brökk were excellent protagonists. Skatha was the type of heroine I love to read about. She may have been young and a virgin, but despite being blind, she was independent, kind, and she had spunk. As for Brökk, I wasn’t sure about him in the beginning. I wasn’t sure if his intentions were good, or if he was really going to go ahead with his plan of using Skatha as an end to his means.
Another thing I liked was that Brökk didn’t keep the truth from her for very long. As soon as they felt more comfortable around each other, they each confessed their deepest secrets. When he learns of her impairment, not only do his protective instincts go into overdrive, but his admiration for her soars – for her inner strength, the way she views the world, and the way she navigates it. It was just sweet to seeing her teach the big lug a thing or two. They had excellent chemistry together which led up to great sex. The sex scenes burned up the pages. It may sound ridiculous, but I giggled a few times because of the verbiage used, but it stayed true to the time period (I think). The author was quite descriptive which just further sucked you in (no pun intended). But it wasn’t just wild, crazy rutting, or as Brökk would say, swiving. He was capable of being gentle and romantic. A favorite scene that comes to mind are the hot springs *sigh*
The dramatic portion was also well done. My heart broke a little for Skatha and Brökk, but as usual their ability to communicate saved me from spilling a few tears. Once all the drama died down, it was time for a spot of humor. I couldn’t stop laughing at the end. There are a few funny scenes between him and the strict abbess. I love that he couldn’t seem to intimidate the woman. That was the perfect way of making him work hard to regain the love of his life.
At the end of this, I came away from the story bearing a huge grin, heaving a sigh and a definite plan to read more of Jianne Carlo’s work. I look forward to book two and I hope there will be a cameo of these two. This was sweet, funny, sizzling and easy to read. If you don’t mind the names tripping you up a little, then this is a book for you.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy from the author. A review in exchange was not promised.
This was my first read by Jianne Carlo, and I was pleasantly surprised. When I read the first few pages, my first thought was “uh oh”. Why? Well, the story takes place in the 10th century AD, and the characters are Vikings. What you get are complicated names to pronounce and the dialogue for that time period is not one that I’m used to reading a lot of. However, I was hooked from the beginning, so I am glad that I decided to stick with it and see where the story went.
Skatha and Brökk were excellent protagonists. Skatha was the type of heroine I love to read about. She may have been young and a virgin, but despite being blind, she was independent, kind, and she had spunk. As for Brökk, I wasn’t sure about him in the beginning. I wasn’t sure if his intentions were good, or if he was really going to go ahead with his plan of using Skatha as an end to his means.
“What use have I for healing hands and wisdom in a woman? Women cook, birth and complain. ‘Tis their role.”
Another thing I liked was that Brökk didn’t keep the truth from her for very long. As soon as they felt more comfortable around each other, they each confessed their deepest secrets. When he learns of her impairment, not only do his protective instincts go into overdrive, but his admiration for her soars – for her inner strength, the way she views the world, and the way she navigates it. It was just sweet to seeing her teach the big lug a thing or two. They had excellent chemistry together which led up to great sex. The sex scenes burned up the pages. It may sound ridiculous, but I giggled a few times because of the verbiage used, but it stayed true to the time period (I think). The author was quite descriptive which just further sucked you in (no pun intended). But it wasn’t just wild, crazy rutting, or as Brökk would say, swiving. He was capable of being gentle and romantic. A favorite scene that comes to mind are the hot springs *sigh*
The dramatic portion was also well done. My heart broke a little for Skatha and Brökk, but as usual their ability to communicate saved me from spilling a few tears. Once all the drama died down, it was time for a spot of humor. I couldn’t stop laughing at the end. There are a few funny scenes between him and the strict abbess. I love that he couldn’t seem to intimidate the woman. That was the perfect way of making him work hard to regain the love of his life.
He inhaled the fresh sweetness of a new morn, the morn he and Skatha were to say their vows, and grinned like a sotted court jester. “Brother, you wear the smile of a lovesick fool.”
At the end of this, I came away from the story bearing a huge grin, heaving a sigh and a definite plan to read more of Jianne Carlo’s work. I look forward to book two and I hope there will be a cameo of these two. This was sweet, funny, sizzling and easy to read. If you don’t mind the names tripping you up a little, then this is a book for you.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy from the author. A review in exchange was not promised.
October 29, 2012
*4.5 Stars* Review to come but this is a great start to a new series. I just love Jianne Carlo because no matter if it's paranormal, contemporary or historical, she's got these hot alpha men and strong heroines that would be just as strong without a man. she's definitely one of those authors that I'm always on the lookout for.
February 26, 2013
Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.com/bo...
This was awesome book! It was a multidimensional story-and not unlike a delicious Oreo cookie – I couldn’t say which part I liked best. Yes, I went there.
The story starts off with a bang. Brokk has just kidnapped the girls and is trying to discover which one of them is the King’s daughter. When the fierce viking threatens her friends, Skatha steps forward and reveals her identity. The bastard daughter of Scotland’s king and a goddess, this girl is nobody’s pushover. But it was when she met Brokk’s arrogant demand that they marry with a few of her own demands that I got my first glimpse of her true spirit. Yet, it was the Brokk’s arrogant demeaner that got me curious about what kind of hero the writer had created.
The writer created exciting characters that were vibrant and easy to like. Now, I’ll admit that my first impression of Brokk was all wrong. I thought he was one of those blood thirsty beserkers who was going to break my beloved heroine’s heart. How wrong I was. Brokk was the quintessential alpha hero – strong but caring. While Skatha was the perfect heroine – spunky yet vulnerable. They were perfect for each other in every way. Even in their honesty. After a rocky start to their relationship , Brokk and Skatha were truthful with each other. He told her the truth about the events that brought them together. And despite the reality that it could mean the end for her , Skatha revealed everything about herself. Ms.Carlo created the perfect couple – each with their own physical imperfections and insecurities.
This muti-layered story is very character driven. But the bones of every good romance novel is the HEAT. Ms. Carlo definitely brought the heat with this steamy story. The love scenes were scorching hot and OMG! delicious. The love between the two leads was wildly romantic and they admitted their love early on in the story. Brokk stole a piece of my heart with his unconditional acceptance of Skatha. Even though he over-reacted a bit in his need to protect her it only endeared him to this reader even more.
And now we come to the climactic ending that even I never saw coming. The true villain was revealed with a flurry of surprising twists and turns. I sure didn’t see that one coming. Even more welcome was the bit of humor between Brokk and the Abbess at the end.
Bottom line: Malice Striker is a top notch historical romance . This story grabbed my attention and kept me flipping those pages well into the night. I just couldn’t put it down until the end and it still left me wanting more. Just like that delicious Oreo cookie. LOL! Seriously… it’s a great start to the new series. If you’re looking for a steamy story to loose yourself in for a few hours with characters that you can’t forget ….then this is the book for you. I’m giving Malice Striker five flying stars and my highest recommendation.
This was awesome book! It was a multidimensional story-and not unlike a delicious Oreo cookie – I couldn’t say which part I liked best. Yes, I went there.
The story starts off with a bang. Brokk has just kidnapped the girls and is trying to discover which one of them is the King’s daughter. When the fierce viking threatens her friends, Skatha steps forward and reveals her identity. The bastard daughter of Scotland’s king and a goddess, this girl is nobody’s pushover. But it was when she met Brokk’s arrogant demand that they marry with a few of her own demands that I got my first glimpse of her true spirit. Yet, it was the Brokk’s arrogant demeaner that got me curious about what kind of hero the writer had created.
The writer created exciting characters that were vibrant and easy to like. Now, I’ll admit that my first impression of Brokk was all wrong. I thought he was one of those blood thirsty beserkers who was going to break my beloved heroine’s heart. How wrong I was. Brokk was the quintessential alpha hero – strong but caring. While Skatha was the perfect heroine – spunky yet vulnerable. They were perfect for each other in every way. Even in their honesty. After a rocky start to their relationship , Brokk and Skatha were truthful with each other. He told her the truth about the events that brought them together. And despite the reality that it could mean the end for her , Skatha revealed everything about herself. Ms.Carlo created the perfect couple – each with their own physical imperfections and insecurities.
This muti-layered story is very character driven. But the bones of every good romance novel is the HEAT. Ms. Carlo definitely brought the heat with this steamy story. The love scenes were scorching hot and OMG! delicious. The love between the two leads was wildly romantic and they admitted their love early on in the story. Brokk stole a piece of my heart with his unconditional acceptance of Skatha. Even though he over-reacted a bit in his need to protect her it only endeared him to this reader even more.
And now we come to the climactic ending that even I never saw coming. The true villain was revealed with a flurry of surprising twists and turns. I sure didn’t see that one coming. Even more welcome was the bit of humor between Brokk and the Abbess at the end.
Bottom line: Malice Striker is a top notch historical romance . This story grabbed my attention and kept me flipping those pages well into the night. I just couldn’t put it down until the end and it still left me wanting more. Just like that delicious Oreo cookie. LOL! Seriously… it’s a great start to the new series. If you’re looking for a steamy story to loose yourself in for a few hours with characters that you can’t forget ….then this is the book for you. I’m giving Malice Striker five flying stars and my highest recommendation.
November 24, 2012
Malice Striker is a thoroughly entertaining read that has likable characters, a sweet and sexy romance, and an intriguing bit of paranormal tossed in to make it even more intriguing. It has all these wonderful qualities but at times there's almost too many outside characters that make it confusing and the plot points involving war and revenge suffer because of this. As the good guys didn't know who was the enemy, neither did I as the numerous name dropping became overwhelming. Those minor issues didn't detract from my overall enjoyment of the story though as the unique heroine and to die for hero completely won me over. Their love story IS a love story as they fully accept each other's less than perfect selves.
Skatha's parentage is both worldly and otherworldly which makes her a valuable commodity. Because of her blindness though she doesn't see herself as thus which is why she's kept it hidden and why she's amazed by the feelings Brokk inspires in her. She's extremely independent which I found wonderful, even if a bit unbelievable for the times, and her other unique abilities added a bit of exoticness to her demure nature. Living in an Abbey you'd expect her to be fearful of sex but that isn't the case, she jumps in wholeheartedly. I was a bit disappointed too with the evolution of her blindness but saw it coming the moment I started the story.
Brokk is a wonderful hero who's sexy and caring and even though he could be bitter towards women because of a prior bad experience I never saw him act cruelly. He was particularly charming with his uncertainties as how to court Skatha and it made me love him even more. Their sexual interludes were sweet yet steamy and perfectly spaced throughout the story. I wholeheartedly bought into their romance considering its abrupt beginning.
The core group of secondary characters, Brokk's family and the women who protect Skatha, were equally delightful and can easily segue into future books. These characters both helped and humorously hindered Brokk and Skatha's romance and their shenanigans brought a smile to my face. The paranormal and mythological aspects of the story were only touched on briefly and I wish these issues were explained in greater detail which perhaps they will in future books. The revenge plot and the too quickly concluded ending were a bit disappointing but the main characters and their romance were the best part of the book. They were a match made in heaven and I would've been equally content just watching their romance evolve. Malice Striker is a satisfying start to a series that I'm greatly looking forward to as this book showed much promise with its enjoyable characters and fast-paced storytelling.
Skatha's parentage is both worldly and otherworldly which makes her a valuable commodity. Because of her blindness though she doesn't see herself as thus which is why she's kept it hidden and why she's amazed by the feelings Brokk inspires in her. She's extremely independent which I found wonderful, even if a bit unbelievable for the times, and her other unique abilities added a bit of exoticness to her demure nature. Living in an Abbey you'd expect her to be fearful of sex but that isn't the case, she jumps in wholeheartedly. I was a bit disappointed too with the evolution of her blindness but saw it coming the moment I started the story.
Brokk is a wonderful hero who's sexy and caring and even though he could be bitter towards women because of a prior bad experience I never saw him act cruelly. He was particularly charming with his uncertainties as how to court Skatha and it made me love him even more. Their sexual interludes were sweet yet steamy and perfectly spaced throughout the story. I wholeheartedly bought into their romance considering its abrupt beginning.
The core group of secondary characters, Brokk's family and the women who protect Skatha, were equally delightful and can easily segue into future books. These characters both helped and humorously hindered Brokk and Skatha's romance and their shenanigans brought a smile to my face. The paranormal and mythological aspects of the story were only touched on briefly and I wish these issues were explained in greater detail which perhaps they will in future books. The revenge plot and the too quickly concluded ending were a bit disappointing but the main characters and their romance were the best part of the book. They were a match made in heaven and I would've been equally content just watching their romance evolve. Malice Striker is a satisfying start to a series that I'm greatly looking forward to as this book showed much promise with its enjoyable characters and fast-paced storytelling.
July 20, 2014
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. I rated it 5 out of 5 stars.
Reviewed for For Whom The Books Toll
5, 4 1/2
Can a mere mortal Viking tame the daughter of a goddess?
When Scotland’s King Kenneth orders his death and kidnaps his sister, the Viking Brökk—the Malice Striker—plans his vengeance: he’ll steal the king’s bastard daughter from Sumbarten Abbey and use her to buy his sister freedom. But his schemes go awry when his liege lord commands him to wed Skatha—and when he finds five women instead of one at the Abbey, none will claim the King as father.
When the Viking abducts Skatha and her women, she’s bewildered. Why did Brökk seize her? Why does he want her for his wife? She weds him willingly enough when he threatens to kill her companions, but she vows to control her own destiny and escape. For if the Viking discovers her secrets, the laws of his people will force him to cast her aside…or kill her. And even Skatha, daughter of a goddess, might not escape the Viking’s wrath…
My Review:
I loved, loved, loved this book. Jianne Carlo has such a creative way for coming up with the titles of Viking Vengeance series. This book is rich in history and it shows that Ms. Carlo has done extensive research in the writing of this book and she was able to create a fantastic romantic story that has passion, lots of emotions, twists and turns, murder plots and surprises galore.
The characters seem to leap off the pages and make the readers fall in love with them. This story is enhanced with it's secondary characters and a great setting for them to live in. Plus it's full of secrets that get revealed when the appropriate time comes. There is just enough wit and humor infused into the characters and story that is just plain genius.
One of my favorite lines is when Brokk would say "Loki's Toes", it would just crack me up, I laughed so hard. Brokk makes a great hero, he is a big strong, handsome viking who is strict in his rule but also fair and has many scars, inside and outside. As the story progressed you can see his character's growth.
Skatha's character was almost as strong as Brokk's. She is strong willed, confident, trusting and humble. I really liked her a lot. I can't imagine being able to do some of the things Skatha could accomplish. She was also very determined.
Brokk and Skatha's marriage starts out a little rough, well a lot rough but they are able to move forward and grow their relationship.
Oh and villains abound in this story and they make the plot so delicious. So if you're into handsome vikings with a little bit of mythology thrown into the mix, this is a must read for you!
Reviewed for For Whom The Books Toll
5, 4 1/2
Can a mere mortal Viking tame the daughter of a goddess?
When Scotland’s King Kenneth orders his death and kidnaps his sister, the Viking Brökk—the Malice Striker—plans his vengeance: he’ll steal the king’s bastard daughter from Sumbarten Abbey and use her to buy his sister freedom. But his schemes go awry when his liege lord commands him to wed Skatha—and when he finds five women instead of one at the Abbey, none will claim the King as father.
When the Viking abducts Skatha and her women, she’s bewildered. Why did Brökk seize her? Why does he want her for his wife? She weds him willingly enough when he threatens to kill her companions, but she vows to control her own destiny and escape. For if the Viking discovers her secrets, the laws of his people will force him to cast her aside…or kill her. And even Skatha, daughter of a goddess, might not escape the Viking’s wrath…
My Review:
I loved, loved, loved this book. Jianne Carlo has such a creative way for coming up with the titles of Viking Vengeance series. This book is rich in history and it shows that Ms. Carlo has done extensive research in the writing of this book and she was able to create a fantastic romantic story that has passion, lots of emotions, twists and turns, murder plots and surprises galore.
The characters seem to leap off the pages and make the readers fall in love with them. This story is enhanced with it's secondary characters and a great setting for them to live in. Plus it's full of secrets that get revealed when the appropriate time comes. There is just enough wit and humor infused into the characters and story that is just plain genius.
One of my favorite lines is when Brokk would say "Loki's Toes", it would just crack me up, I laughed so hard. Brokk makes a great hero, he is a big strong, handsome viking who is strict in his rule but also fair and has many scars, inside and outside. As the story progressed you can see his character's growth.
Skatha's character was almost as strong as Brokk's. She is strong willed, confident, trusting and humble. I really liked her a lot. I can't imagine being able to do some of the things Skatha could accomplish. She was also very determined.
Brokk and Skatha's marriage starts out a little rough, well a lot rough but they are able to move forward and grow their relationship.
Oh and villains abound in this story and they make the plot so delicious. So if you're into handsome vikings with a little bit of mythology thrown into the mix, this is a must read for you!
November 12, 2012
Jianne Carlo weaves an entrancing tale of love, passion, and action. The Malice Striker is about 250 pages that reads like 75. I literally couldn't put it down. My husband had to drag the computer from my hands to get me to come eat dinner. I don't care what style, genre, time-period, etc., but I'm reading everything Jianne Carlo writes and putting her on my auto-buy list (which by the way is very short).
Skatha, the heroine, is a fierce woman who knows who she is isn't afraid of the warrior husband she's been given too. Her Viking husband is strong, sexy, and completely smitten. Just the way I like them. And Skatha drives him crazy -in more ways than one! There are several fabulous secrets in this book and I refuse to give them away. You will just have to read it!!!
I found myself completely immersed in Carlo's created world. Malice Striker blends history and fantasy and it was done beautifully. She also does a fantastic job of painting her setting and connecting with her characters. I really felt as though I could see the landscape and knew the characters personally after the book was over. I laughed and cried with them through their triumphs and sorrows. I was so sad to see their story end.
I do hope you will give Jianne Carlo a chance. I guarantee you won't be disappointed.
Skatha, the heroine, is a fierce woman who knows who she is isn't afraid of the warrior husband she's been given too. Her Viking husband is strong, sexy, and completely smitten. Just the way I like them. And Skatha drives him crazy -in more ways than one! There are several fabulous secrets in this book and I refuse to give them away. You will just have to read it!!!
I found myself completely immersed in Carlo's created world. Malice Striker blends history and fantasy and it was done beautifully. She also does a fantastic job of painting her setting and connecting with her characters. I really felt as though I could see the landscape and knew the characters personally after the book was over. I laughed and cried with them through their triumphs and sorrows. I was so sad to see their story end.
I do hope you will give Jianne Carlo a chance. I guarantee you won't be disappointed.
October 20, 2012
Tough heroine. Good hero.
Although I confuse and dun understand the foreign words, but I enjoy the stories. Just simple arranged marriage between a king's bastard daughter to a powerful jarl.
Plus SAMOC, my most favorite kind of stories.
Although I confuse and dun understand the foreign words, but I enjoy the stories. Just simple arranged marriage between a king's bastard daughter to a powerful jarl.
Plus SAMOC, my most favorite kind of stories.
April 9, 2013
This book was lended to me through Lendle and I am really glad I requested this book. It is only 180 pages long so it is a quick read, but the writing is good and the story line is awesome. It is about Vikings! I love Vikings! But only to read about, I don’t think I would have liked to run into any in a dark alley. So the Malice Striker a.k.a. Jarl Brokk steals a group of ladies for an Abbey because he has been ordered by King Harold Bluetooth and some other emperor guy to marry King Kenneth’s illegitimate child. He doesn’t know what she looks like so he just takes the whole lot of women with him back to his holdings in Norway. He eventually figures out which one is Skatha and marries her. The rest of the story follows this relationship through the dangers presented. Others have been searching for Scatha as well because it is rumored that he is the child of King Kenneth and the jotunn goddess. The reader is left wondering for much of the book whether this book is going to take a dip into paranormal realms or if it is just playing up on superstitions of the day. That is indeed answered much later. Other dangers are that Bita Veor (Brokk’s holding) has its own peril that is still hiding in the shadows. Brokk and his brother Konall do not know from where the danger is coming. Their sister was taken and they are working to bring her back, but don’t quite know why she was taken. I really enjoyed every moment of this book. The hero wasn't a big fat jerk, the heroine wasn't stupid or annoying.
My biggest complaint is that the end of the book didn’t really bring any answers as to what Scatha is capable of. Perhaps the second book will expound on this, but I am guessing that “Death Blow” will be about Konall and not Brokk and Scatha.
If you would like other book suggestions, visit my blog at: http://bibliobibulireviews.blogspot.com/
My biggest complaint is that the end of the book didn’t really bring any answers as to what Scatha is capable of. Perhaps the second book will expound on this, but I am guessing that “Death Blow” will be about Konall and not Brokk and Scatha.
If you would like other book suggestions, visit my blog at: http://bibliobibulireviews.blogspot.com/
July 26, 2013
By: Jianne Carlo
Published By: Etopia Press
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Series: Viking Vengeance
Review:
"Malice Striker" by Jianne Carlo was some 'Viking' romantic tale that once you started reading finding it hard to put down this quick read till the end. I found the story line and written simply good. We find 'Malice Striker" aka Jarl Brokk because he was ordered by the King Bluetooth to marry 'King Kenneth's illegitimate child. Since he doesn't know what she looks like he grabs a lot of women and takes them to Norway. Finding out that one was 'Skatha...he marries her...and from here... this excellent story takes off which follows "the relationship through the dangers presented." This is where the author really works her magic giving the reader such a wonderful good read. A lot of things will come about but will be answered as you read through the novel. We will find the hero and heroine were really something new for the reader in that they weren't .... well I will stop her and let you read it and get the fill of it all from the read. You will not be disappointed because this 'Viking' historical read was a well written engaging story that you will be hooked from the beginning till the end. Be ready for many twist and turns. You will have to keep up because there are many. Now with this good romance and put in some 'Gods and Goddesses' with espionage and downright murder and you will definitely have a novel you will not be able to put down until the very end.
Published By: Etopia Press
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Series: Viking Vengeance
Review:
"Malice Striker" by Jianne Carlo was some 'Viking' romantic tale that once you started reading finding it hard to put down this quick read till the end. I found the story line and written simply good. We find 'Malice Striker" aka Jarl Brokk because he was ordered by the King Bluetooth to marry 'King Kenneth's illegitimate child. Since he doesn't know what she looks like he grabs a lot of women and takes them to Norway. Finding out that one was 'Skatha...he marries her...and from here... this excellent story takes off which follows "the relationship through the dangers presented." This is where the author really works her magic giving the reader such a wonderful good read. A lot of things will come about but will be answered as you read through the novel. We will find the hero and heroine were really something new for the reader in that they weren't .... well I will stop her and let you read it and get the fill of it all from the read. You will not be disappointed because this 'Viking' historical read was a well written engaging story that you will be hooked from the beginning till the end. Be ready for many twist and turns. You will have to keep up because there are many. Now with this good romance and put in some 'Gods and Goddesses' with espionage and downright murder and you will definitely have a novel you will not be able to put down until the very end.
December 7, 2012
This was a really good book. I love me some hot Viking men plus gods and goddesses in this story and it makes for great reading. What more could you ask for? I really enjoyed this book and the start of the series. I look forward to reading the next ones also. I give the book 4 stars.
The story starts right off into the action to where the girls have already been kidnapped and Brokk is trying to find out which female is the King’s daughter. I was interested right off as well as curious as to where the story would lead. It was very well written as well as having a few twists and turns to it that I did not see coming.
The characters were very strong and three dimensional. You learned their backgrounds, feelings and insecurities along the way. The story had a lot happening with Brokk’s sister having already been kidnapped as well as what was going on between Skatha & Brokk. I did feel a few times that the brothers didn’t seem as worried as I would be if my little sister had been kidnapped by a psychopath and kept in a dungeon.
All in all it was a great story and I can’t wait to see what the next story will bring to the series. In the future books I hope to get to know Brokk’s younger sister as well as find out what powers Skatha has since her mother is a goddess. I also hope that we see or hear more about the different gods and goddesses in the next stories. I recommend reading it.
*I received book free from author in return for an honest review.*
The story starts right off into the action to where the girls have already been kidnapped and Brokk is trying to find out which female is the King’s daughter. I was interested right off as well as curious as to where the story would lead. It was very well written as well as having a few twists and turns to it that I did not see coming.
The characters were very strong and three dimensional. You learned their backgrounds, feelings and insecurities along the way. The story had a lot happening with Brokk’s sister having already been kidnapped as well as what was going on between Skatha & Brokk. I did feel a few times that the brothers didn’t seem as worried as I would be if my little sister had been kidnapped by a psychopath and kept in a dungeon.
All in all it was a great story and I can’t wait to see what the next story will bring to the series. In the future books I hope to get to know Brokk’s younger sister as well as find out what powers Skatha has since her mother is a goddess. I also hope that we see or hear more about the different gods and goddesses in the next stories. I recommend reading it.
*I received book free from author in return for an honest review.*
December 2, 2012
Oh, I'm in love! This book made me all giddy! It had everything I love, a tall big viking with scars on the outside and inside, a woman with powers she doesn't know yet, her weakness alluring multiple evil characters to benefit from her gift of being born from a Goddess. I enjoyed the fact that she was blind and tried to keep it from her abductors! Worry not that is not a spoiler, we figure in the first few pages that she's blind - and it just makes the story perfect!
I do have a soft spot for historical romance, especially the viking era ones! Of course they need to be well written to be good, either great writing or very engaging story - well Malice Striker had both! I was hooked from the very beginning to the very end - so many great plot twists and interesting turns of events. I was never bored!
The romance was exciting, hot and very romantic in the christian lady and barbaric viking way, it was delicious discovering Skatha's passion and fire when he was around and finding Brökk's softer feelings and love for the first time. Now that makes for such great romance! Mix in some Goddesses and Gods for extra flavor and espionage and murder plots and you really cannot but this book down! I couldn't.
Highly recommending this to all who love Vikings, Romance and True Blood's Alexander Skarsgard. ;)
I do have a soft spot for historical romance, especially the viking era ones! Of course they need to be well written to be good, either great writing or very engaging story - well Malice Striker had both! I was hooked from the very beginning to the very end - so many great plot twists and interesting turns of events. I was never bored!
The romance was exciting, hot and very romantic in the christian lady and barbaric viking way, it was delicious discovering Skatha's passion and fire when he was around and finding Brökk's softer feelings and love for the first time. Now that makes for such great romance! Mix in some Goddesses and Gods for extra flavor and espionage and murder plots and you really cannot but this book down! I couldn't.
Highly recommending this to all who love Vikings, Romance and True Blood's Alexander Skarsgard. ;)
April 7, 2016
I liked the story and having an immortal parent angle was really good. I also like books that start right off and you don't have to wonder when the MCs will actually meet and so on.
There wasn't a lot of unnecessary drama and the stuff that happened made sense and didn't come out of nowhere.
What I didn't like. The way the dialogue is written. So formal and stilted. I know that that more like what they actually talked like back then, but you know what I don't want to read my stories that way. It's stuff and formal and hard to read and there just seems to be so much that's never said between the characters because of it.
Also, this punishment idea that comes up in romance books like this all the time. I don't even know why she was punished. She didn't do what she was told not to. So what we punish women because they should have read men's minds and not done whatever made us furious. Thank God I was born in this century.
Overall, the story was good, but the things I didn't like about it took a lot away from this book.
There wasn't a lot of unnecessary drama and the stuff that happened made sense and didn't come out of nowhere.
What I didn't like. The way the dialogue is written. So formal and stilted. I know that that more like what they actually talked like back then, but you know what I don't want to read my stories that way. It's stuff and formal and hard to read and there just seems to be so much that's never said between the characters because of it.
Also, this punishment idea that comes up in romance books like this all the time. I don't even know why she was punished. She didn't do what she was told not to. So what we punish women because they should have read men's minds and not done whatever made us furious. Thank God I was born in this century.
Overall, the story was good, but the things I didn't like about it took a lot away from this book.
May 1, 2014
I really liked the hero (hubba hubba Viking warrior) and the heroine. But there was just way too many names of people and places to keep track of and way too much intrigue for me to deal with.
And I felt that the author should have done better research. There is nothing in the Qur'an (Koran) which explicitly states that men and women must not mingle, rather, it states that both men and women must be modest. It quite irks me when persons mistake CULTURE for RELIGION. Le sigh. I urge a re-edit of this book, because it is quite inaccurate. Proper research was not done. It also leaves readers with the impressions that it is permissible for Muslim men to have concubines and harems - it is not! However, they are allowed to have 2-4 wives, that is, if they can treat them all equally.
And I felt that the author should have done better research. There is nothing in the Qur'an (Koran) which explicitly states that men and women must not mingle, rather, it states that both men and women must be modest. It quite irks me when persons mistake CULTURE for RELIGION. Le sigh. I urge a re-edit of this book, because it is quite inaccurate. Proper research was not done. It also leaves readers with the impressions that it is permissible for Muslim men to have concubines and harems - it is not! However, they are allowed to have 2-4 wives, that is, if they can treat them all equally.
Want to read
January 23, 2015Can a mere mortal Viking tame the daughter of a goddess?
When Scotland’s King Kenneth orders his death and kidnaps his sister, the Viking Brökk—the Malice Striker—plans his vengeance: he’ll steal the king’s bastard daughter from Sumbarten Abbey and use her to buy his sister freedom. But his schemes go awry when his liege lord commands him to wed Skatha—and when he finds five women instead of one at the Abbey, none will claim the King as father.
When the Viking abducts Skatha and her women, she’s bewildered. Why did Brökk seize her? Why does he want her for his wife? She weds him willingly enough when he threatens to kill her companions, but she vows to control her own destiny and escape. For if the Viking discovers her secrets, the laws of his people will force him to cast her aside…or kill her. And even Skatha, daughter of a goddess, might not escape the Viking’s wrath…
When Scotland’s King Kenneth orders his death and kidnaps his sister, the Viking Brökk—the Malice Striker—plans his vengeance: he’ll steal the king’s bastard daughter from Sumbarten Abbey and use her to buy his sister freedom. But his schemes go awry when his liege lord commands him to wed Skatha—and when he finds five women instead of one at the Abbey, none will claim the King as father.
When the Viking abducts Skatha and her women, she’s bewildered. Why did Brökk seize her? Why does he want her for his wife? She weds him willingly enough when he threatens to kill her companions, but she vows to control her own destiny and escape. For if the Viking discovers her secrets, the laws of his people will force him to cast her aside…or kill her. And even Skatha, daughter of a goddess, might not escape the Viking’s wrath…
September 26, 2013
I love Vikings, especially when they are written well. They are in this book but at times it was almost "too" well. So many unfamiliar words were used that I started simply skipping over them. It added to the authenticity but became a little annoying. Also, so many characters were mentioned that I quickly lost track. Luckily the ones I discarded proved to be unimportant to the main plot. However, I have a feeling if I plan to read the whole series I need to learn who everyone really is.
Overall, this is a very hot romance with very hot men, Vikings, in it. The heroine is endearing and brave. She has a serious malady that only seems to strengthen her. I liked her a lot.
Overall, this is a very hot romance with very hot men, Vikings, in it. The heroine is endearing and brave. She has a serious malady that only seems to strengthen her. I liked her a lot.
November 12, 2013
This book has children born from unions between kings and goddesses, women and gods, Vikings, love, lies, betrayal and loyalty. The story was entertaining, actually better than I expected although it held no real surprises, apart from early on when we discover Skatha's secret, it was a good read. I downloaded this free from another site as part of their "hooked on a series" promotion, with this being the first in a series lots of names and titles are given to us, a few times I felt like I'd missed a previous book, since this is the first book I think I've read by this author maybe some of the characters are carried over from previous ones which would explain the familiarity.
December 19, 2013
Talk about "hot Viking!"
I really liked how to story developed, as well as the condition Skatha suffered. A very unique story. Jianne obviously did a lot of research to incorporate fact into this story. I had trouble at times with the "vernacular" in which the story was written, but it truly speaks to Jianne's talent for being able to maintain that language throughout.
The love scenes were hot, and I would definitely read more books by Jianne!!!
I really liked how to story developed, as well as the condition Skatha suffered. A very unique story. Jianne obviously did a lot of research to incorporate fact into this story. I had trouble at times with the "vernacular" in which the story was written, but it truly speaks to Jianne's talent for being able to maintain that language throughout.
The love scenes were hot, and I would definitely read more books by Jianne!!!
September 22, 2013
First... I LOVE VIKINGS!! Now that I got passed that. Malice Striker is a fun, romantic, touching and exciting read that leaves the reader wanting much more!
This is my first time reading any of Jianne Carlo's works and definitely not my last. I really enjoyed her story telling and believe any other fans of the genre (or just vikings in general) will feel the same :)
This is my first time reading any of Jianne Carlo's works and definitely not my last. I really enjoyed her story telling and believe any other fans of the genre (or just vikings in general) will feel the same :)
November 15, 2013
4.5 stars, wow, what a great story. I loved the hero and the heroine. I liked that she is blind and has accomplished so much even with her disability. I have read other Viking books by Jianne Carlo and really liked all of them. This book is steamy! I really enjoyed it and will end up purchasing the rest in the series. The hero's middle brother's book is next!
June 28, 2014
I'm not usually one who reads "historical" romances but I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It had enough whimsy to keep it interesting with enough love and spirit to make it so I couldn't put it down. I really enjoyed this.
December 9, 2012
Not really sure what to think. Lots of loose ends left, the writing could have been a bit tighter. Also, entirely too many characters. You'll need a chart to navigate all the people in this book.
September 30, 2013
This was free from ARe. It was okay. Doubt that I will run out to buy the others in the series.
Want to read
September 20, 2013Free at ARe:
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/produ...
9/20-21
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/produ...
9/20-21
October 27, 2013
Enjoyed the book the mix of fact and fiction blended well. Shame about the male on the cover he looks like a teenager who has not lived yet, so not Brokk
November 28, 2014
good read....
July 25, 2016
What a great start to this series, really enjoyed it, bring on the next one
March 21, 2014
I just couldn't get into this book :(
Read
March 3, 2018DNF
I DIDN'T QUITE ENJOY THE FORCED CHEMISTRY BETWEEN THE CHARACTERS.
AND THERE WAS SOMETHING MISSING THAT DIDN'T CAPTURE MY INTEREST LONG ENOUGH.
I DIDN'T QUITE ENJOY THE FORCED CHEMISTRY BETWEEN THE CHARACTERS.
AND THERE WAS SOMETHING MISSING THAT DIDN'T CAPTURE MY INTEREST LONG ENOUGH.
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