The Princess and the Barbarian

This finely written tale of a princess and a barbarian and the progression of their relationship is mesmerizing. Full of intimacy, humor, and adventure, it's without a doubt, one of the best books I've read in years. So good in fact, I'm buying copies as Christmas gifts, and buying more of her titles.

What starts as a typical damsel in distress plot line quickly turns into a stunning story of love, intimacy, and the bonds that hold a kingdom together. Krahn has created a truly magical place, filled with characters that will quickly win your heart and remain in your memory for a long time to come. This novel is very special to me. It brings back a time, a place, and even the sound of the music I was listening to while reading it. Perhaps this review should have included theme, plot and all of those things that the page otherwise fails to mention, but why bother? It's the emotion, both in the novel and what it invokes in the reader, that really matters. If you can find this novel, buy it without hesitation. It will linger.

This was the first book I read by Betina Krahn and it is still my favorite. The Princess Thera of Mercia has traveled afar, seeking a husband in order to circumvent a prophecy which would bring death and destruction upon her kingdom. Little does she know that her search has put her in the very place to set the wheels in motion for the prophecy's fulfilment.An army of mercenaries, lead by an evil leader, have begun to seige the city to which she has come. In her flight, she is attacked by a group of these evil mercenaries. Her screams are heard by Saxxe Rouen, who comes to her aid. (He is also a mercenary, but not a part of the army. He and his friend have recently returned from the Crusades.) He marvels at her lack of gratitude for her rescue and her haughty attitude, not knowing that she is a princess. She manages to escape him, but the next day he finds her and again rescues her from the evil mercenaries, who have orders to capture her for their leader.In repayment for her rescue, Saxxe demands a night with her, not knowing that the nights spent with her determine who will be the next king of Mercia. Her duena, the countess, is so named to COUNT the nights.Nights with Thera multiply as Saxxe and Thera travel to the hidden land of Mercia, where each begins to value the other. Ultimately, the prophecy is fulfilled, but the part which the prophecy did not foretell involves Saxxe.Contained in this book are some of the most witty scenes, steamy scenes, as well as a powerful romance. This is one to keep and treasure and to read again and again.Find a copy from a used bookstore until it is reprinted and cuddle up with a wonderful read.