5 Word Review: Family, survival, power, manipulation, love.

I love a good historical romance, and this one wasn't only good, it was bloody excellent.

I loved The Viking Chief's Marriage Alliance so much. From the tense beginning to the glorious ending, I loved every second of reading it and I can't wait to read it again.

One of my favourite things about this book was the settings. They are so rich and vibrant that it was easy to picture them vividly in my mind. I could feel the icy chill of the sea, smell the smoke in the hair, hear the bustling of Jorvik. I was as awed as Gyda when she stepped into the capital of the kingdom, I could feel the atmosphere.

The depth of research that has gone into this is evident in every scene, from the way the settings come so truly to life to the way the characters interact with the world. I liked the little bits of lore, the beliefs and customs that peppered the story. The small details really made it exceptional.

I loved build up between Gyda and Thorstein. I loved the instant spark of lust, the strong resentment slowly mellowing, the slow build of trust and passion and love between them. The Viking Chief's Marriage Alliance is a delectable slow burn.

Gyda has such drive. She is magnificent, strong and capable. For all she said she couldn't be a shield maiden, she has such power. Her clothes and jewellery are her armour, her standing in society the thing that keeps her safe. She is so desperate to preserve herself and find a home in which she truly belongs. Her past was heart-breaking, and it was great to see her move on from that.

Thorstein has been hurt in the past, and he struggles to get over it. I liked the subtle exploration of misogyny through his character, and how he had to overcome his own toxic mindset and his preconceptions about women especially. His treatment of Gyda was certainly not fair because of this, but it made their finally coming together all the more special. The growth was excellent.

I don't think there's anything I didn't like about this book, although the secrets that Gyda and Thorstein chose to keep did frustrate me at times. As much as was yelling KISS, I was yelling TELL THEM. Everything was so well done, I didn't want to put this book down.

This is one of the best historical romances I have ever read, and it is one I'll happily read again (and again). From the tantalising slow burn to the fierce character to the wonderous setting, it was magnificent.