Review: Compelling Romance of Love and Redemption
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 06 25, 2014
Find this review and more at Lusty Penguin Reviews!Blind Redemption, the third book in the Blind series, is a compelling historical romance of love and redemption by Violetta Rand. Once again, Rand draws the reader into her story, using lush details of the Viking time period paired with compelling characters. Jarl Aaron McNally, banished at the end of the Blind Mercy, the second book, is the male protagonist in Blind Redemption. Aaron was a character who you loved to hate in the second book. When I figured out he was the main character in this book, I couldn’t wait to see if Rand could redeem his character.After his banishment by Tyr Sigurdsson for betraying him, Aaron does some serious soul-searching and realizes that he really isn’t a Christian. He fully embraces the Norse Gods and converts. Although a pagan in private, Aaron serves as a protector for King Olaf, a Christian, by recruiting soldiers. His first recruitment opportunity occurs when he witnesses Jarl Erik’s sons in battle. Aaron eyes the Jarl’s youngest son as the best prospect to train. Little does Aaron know that the sword-yielding fighter is really the Jarl’s daughter, Kara Dalgaard. Unfortunately for Aaron, his reputation precedes him, and the Jarl goes out of his way to humiliate him. When Aaron finally puts it together that Kara is the one he saw fighting, he is attracted to the beautiful, independent, and strong warrior. Kara also feels the spark when in Aaron’s presence and wonders if her prayers have finally been answered—is he the one? Kara’s independent nature, which I absolutely adored, usually lands her in difficult situations that she is just unprepared for. When Aaron figures out that Kara is in serious danger, he lures her to his Tyr’s lands. Not happy to be deceived, Kara needs to reevaluate her feelings toward Aaron because she fears that she is truly falling in love with him. But when Aaron’s past slams into his present, Kara must examine whether or not she can accept the man Aaron has become and not focus on his past. This compelling couple had me glued to my e-reader as they figure out their issues, learn to trust each other, and accept each other as they are.Additionally, I enjoyed seeing Tyr and Rachelle from Blind Mercy too. Their wisdom on love and relationships add to the romance between Aaron and Kara. Without giving anything away, I really loved how Rand organically allows Aaron’s character to grow and become an amazing leading man, deserving of the redemption he craves. Although I feel Blind Redemption can be read as a stand-alone, I believe Bind Mercy should be read first to truly appreciate Aaron’s transformation.Mesmerizing characters along with stunning plot twists make Blind Redemption a wonderful addition to the Blind series. Having read the entire Blind series, I’ve become a huge fan of Violetta Rand. If you enjoy Viking historical romances, the Blind series should be in your TBR pile.I received an eBook copy of the book for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review, and all conclusions are my own responsibility.