Fearless
Helen Kirkman
HQN, Jul 2006, $13.95
ISBN: 0373771193

In 875 AD, the Viking invaders overwhelm East Anglia. The villagers turn to Princess Judith for their defense, but she knows she is not the right person as she lacks military strategy skills. She and her people need a hero to lead their side. She flees to the court of King Alfred seeking a champion. At the court she finds the perfect man, the courageous Einhard of Frisia, owner of a fleet, but more pirate than sea captain; she concludes she will need her intelligence to seduce the man into helping her people defend themselves.

Judith obtains an opportunity when she saves Einhard from an assassin. He owes her, buts is on an undercover mission so assumes he will make remittance in the future. Instead the obstinate warrior woman demands full payment in kind now. As he wonders if his life and his mission are worth losing while leading serfs against the deadly Vikings, Einhard is stunned by his attraction to the Princess, which she reciprocates over the objection of her retinue.

Dark Ages romance readers will appreciate this fine historical tale starring two intrepid warriors. Judith will do anything for her people's safety while Einhard wonders why he can't say no to her seduction. The exhilarating story line brings alive how deep the Vikings invasion went as no one is safe in East Anglia. Fans will enjoy Judith's antics as she offers all she has to bring home a hero for her people and a champion for her.

Harriet Klausner