Book Review: To Tempt a Viking by Michelle Willingham

Reviewer: Andrea

I received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
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The Summary:

She’s Testing His Resolve!

Warrior Viking Ragnar Olafsson stood by as his best friend claimed the woman he desired the most. There was only one way to quench the deep darkness within him—become merciless in battle.

When Elena is taken captive, fearless Ragnar risks everything to save her. Now they are stranded with only each other for company. Suddenly every longing, every look, every touch is forbidden. Elena could tempt a saint—and sinner Ragnar knows he won’t be able to hold out for long!

The Review:

I must admit that Viking romances are one of my guilty pleasures.  I think if most women are honest they would admit there is something romantic about being swept away by an honorable warrior, hell bent on protecting their honor,  and a bit too wild to tame.  I realize this is most assuredly not the most PC comment I could make, but come on! The braided hair, the rock-hard muscles, the long broadsword (cough, cough—pun intended), and this novel didn’t disappoint in that area.

In a setting as harsh as the Norsemen themselves, Ragnar and Elena must survive, relying only on each other.  This life-or-death struggle throws them together until they can no longer ignore what’s always been between them.  It’s the formula as comfortable to seasoned romance readers as a snuggly blanket, and the scenes become fantastically steamy.

The action moves quickly; however, that’s both a plus and a minus.  It doesn’t drag, and it’s a quick, relaxing read without too many side plots, but at times I felt lost.  This is the second in a series, and I needed a little more backstory.  I felt as though I had started reading in the middle of the novel.  There were a few flashback scenes, the first of which would have been much better as a prologue.  It would have gone a long way to that whole backstory issue.

Overall, if you enjoy a good ole “warrior wants girl, warrior takes girl, girl can’t help herself” story, you’ll like this one.

3.5 stars