Review: Review Posted at Heather's Musings
Rating: 3 out of 5
Date: 07 8, 2012
His Strength (Men of Valor#2) by Kiru Taye* I received a copy of this book from Breathless Press in exchange for an honest review*Ikem has wanted to claim Nneka for as long as he could remember.  His proposal was rejected because he wasn't "born of the soil" even though he had lived in their village all his life.  He was essentially a visitor, and couldn't offer her a future according to their customs.  Now she is a widow that has been in morning for a year and he is determined to make her his.Nneka is a strong woman that desires to be set free from her "duty" to her deceased husband's family once her mourning period is up.  She wants to be her own person and not have to depend on a man for anything.  She is very uncomfortable with her brother-in-law's advances and continues to bide her time until her father-in-law will release her.  She desires Ikem but she is afraid that he will want to control her life; the total opposite of her husband.Ikem has remained single since his proposal for marriage was rejected by Nneka's family.  He hasn't had a problem with the women and he's worked hard to become a member of his village, rather than just a "guest".  He has been biding his time until Nneka's morning period is over and he plans to offer another proposal for her hand and this time he isn't willing to take no for an answer.During her period of mourning Nneka's head had been shaven, she isn't adorned in jewelry or beads and her clothing is drab and shapeless.  Through it all Ikem sees the woman inside and she is intrigued by him.  She desires him and wants what only he can give her but she is also afraid that he will want to control her.They are a well matched pair, both are strong individuals but very lonely.  Ikem has managed to make a name for himself with the ladies but there is no relationship involved.  Nneka's husband was a weak man that was unable to fulfill her passions.  In one kiss, Ikem showed her what she had been missing and she was hungry for more.This story takes place in a village in Southeast Nigeria.  We are introduced to several of their customs but I would have liked to learn a little more about them.  It is always interesting to learn about new places when I am reading.  The characters were appealing and I enjoyed reading their story.  I am glad that he didn't give up on them and the brother-in-law got what he deserved.Overall I enjoyed this His Strength and give it 3 Flaming Hearts.