Review: Lively Characters and Well Constructed Plot
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 09 9, 2013
Find this review and more at Lusty Penguin Reviews!Violetta Rand debuts with Blind Allegiance, The Blind Series Book 1, that will delight lovers of historical romance. Rand's vivid imagery captures the era of the Viking raids effectively, pulling the reader into this story.Jarl Randvior Sigurdsson, a Viking, travels to Durham, England to raid a castle, based on a vision from father Odin. During the ensuing battle, he sees Lady Noelle Sinclair, the Lord Sinclair's youngest daughter, and is instantly attracted to her. After winning the battle, Randvior negotiates for Noelle as part of the castle's terms of surrender. Betrayed by her family, Noelle must leave the only place she has ever known to go to Norway with a complete stranger. Randvior doesn't understand the feelings he has for Noelle, but he is determined to have her. While on the way to Norway, Noelle succumbs to Randvior's advances, losing her virginity, and becoming his mistress in the process. Although they have an intimate relationship, Noelle flounders in the precarious position Randvior has left her in, not a slave but not a betrothed either. Without a firm commitment from Randvior, Noelle fears that she will never be able to reestablish her honor, which is very important to her. I couldn't help but empathize with Noelle as she adjusts to life amongst the Vikings. Lauga, Randvior's mother, outright dislikes Noelle and lets everyone know it, which complicates Noelle's life even further. Lauga is a downright evil person and easily becomes a character who you will love to hate. When Randvior realizes that his feelings for Noelle have deepened and turned into love, he finally proposes, giving Noelle the peace of mind she needs, which is a beautiful thing to see.I was thoroughly captivated by Randvior and Noelle's struggles to establish their relationship. Rand, with her strong storytelling voice, builds a fast-moving plot with plenty of intrigue to keep the pages turning. With lively characters and a well-constructed plot, Blind Allegiance is a marvelous beginning to a new series. I am eagerly anticipating Blind Mercy, the next story in this series.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.