Merwenna, a Saxon, is no commoner.  She’s the daughter of Chippenham fortress’ steward and it’s chatelaine as well as goddaughter to King Alfred of Wessex.  With her father dying of a wasting sickness her future is of utmost concern.  While it would initially fall to Alfred to arrange a suitable match for her, his conduct while visiting Chippenham is in very poor taste and destroys any trust she previously had in him.

 

When the Danes descend on Chippenham, King Alfred flees leaving Merwenna and her father to suffer their fate at the hands of the barbarians.  She’s hurt by the king’s betrayal and abandonment but she makes the decision to barricade herself in her father’s room with him and take up arms against anyone coming through the doors.  Erik finds them and convinces Merwenna that he means her and her father no harm.  He even insists on offering his protection and sends his own healer to her father.

 

This man who Merwenna has heard all sorts of horror stories about turns out to be far more honorable then her own king proved to be.  Erik claims her to his warriors but in truth only sleeps beside her in her chambers - never touching her inappropriately because it’s obvious that someone has hurt her.  He’s convinced that she’s his destiny - she’s the woman of his dreams and nothing will stop him from claiming her in truth, but not until she desires him and fears him no more.  Merwenna and Erik’s love is too strong to be denied but King Alfred’s unhealthy obsession with her is a constant cause for concern.  He’ll do anything to possess her, including having her arrested for treason.  Erik’s vowed to protect her at all costs, but when the enemy is a king the stakes are higher than normal.  Is there any chance for them to find a happily ever after without having to spend the rest of their lives in hiding?

 

If you’re looking for a novel that speaks to you on an emotional level then Rodine Dobeck’s BARBARIAN’S BRIDE is for you!  I normally download my e-books to the Ebookwise before reading but once I opened this tale I couldn’t stop myself from spending the better part of a day sitting at the computer reading.  Merwenna is an unforgettable heroine.  She makes her own decisions and isn’t afraid to stand up for what she believes in - even if that means going against her own King.  Erik is absolutely loveable!  Yes, he’s performed all the atrocities he’s accused of but with Merwenna he’s thoughtful and sweet and so downright sexy that I’d love to find a man just like him for myself!  King Alfred is the perfect villain - you just can’t help but hate him - and for good reason!  From beginning to end I felt like I was part of the story and these characters were friends or enemies and worthy of my attention.  We can only hope for many more tales like this one from Ms. Dobeck in the future - maybe even one that gives us more insight into King Gutrum’s life.

By Romance Junkies Reviewer: Chrissy Dionne Click here to Buy this Book Now!   Romance Junkies Content Editor: Claudia Romance Junkies Publishing Editor: Chrissy   Top of Page