Review: Impossible to Put Down!
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 09 3, 2013
Find this review and more at Lusty Penguin Reviews!Viking Fire, by Andrea R. Cooper, captivates with its wonderful blend of historical romance and mystery. Using colorful historical details, Cooper beautifully captures the setting, Ireland 865 CE, and the attitudes of the era, successfully drawing the reader into this story.When the daughter of Laird Liannon, Kaireen, learns that she must marry with Viking Bram, son of Ragnar, she is outraged that her father would demand such a thing.  The Vikings have attacked Irish lands in the past, and headstrong Kaireen does not want to be wed to a Viking. Moreover, Kaireen knows that there is a spy in the keep and worries that, maybe, Bram is that spy. Kaireen cares about the defending the safety of the castle and is proficient with a sword as well as a bow and arrow, which I loved about her character. Kaireen's feistiness turns to stubbornness as she steadfastly refuses to marry Bram because she doesn't love him. Bram positively adores Kaireen and has since the very first time he saw her. He loves her hot-blooded nature and her compassion, knowing these characteristics will help them raise strong warrior sons. A patient man who gently teases Kaireen and defends her people, Bram shows Kaireen his love for her. These actions and words allow Kaireen to slowly realize that she might have feelings for Bram too, which endeared his character to me. Bram knows that Kaireen is falling for him even if her head hasn't caught up to what her heart already knows. When Kaireen finally admits that she loves him, I couldn't help but smile. Bram and Kaireen are a fantastic couple.Along with the entertaining love story, Cooper does a consummate job of building the spy subplot to its dramatic conclusion, which keeps the reader glued to the story. Furthermore, the battle scenes are well constructed and fast paced. With appealing characters, plenty of action, and a mystery to solve, Viking Fire is a compelling read that is impossible to put down.I received an eBook copy from the author for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review, and all conclusions are my own responsibility.