Master of Craving [Mass Market Paperback]

When I found out about Master of Craving I could not wait to read this book. Boy was I wrong this book had me so frustrated I can not tell you. In my opinion I thought the first half of the book was a complete bore and a nuisance which stemmed from the heroine Arian who's aires were just so taxing. How many times did I have to read about her perky breast, his lean muscles which is okay but not page after page of it. Her Critizing him time after time when he's saving her from peril.

I understand not wanting to be kidnapped that's not the problem it was her attitude which I know she's a well sought princess but come on. The only reason I gave it two stars was because I go a chance to read about the other brothers and Tarian. The first two books I thoroughly enjoyed those were a keeper on my book shelf. This one goes directly to the library. I hope I enjoy her next blood sword book.

The third book in the Blood Sword Legacy series starts with a captivatingly gripping scene, and each new compelling scenario contains additional attention-grabbing circumstances. Karin Tabke has created a rewarding masterpiece, one to be savored again and again. MASTER OF CRAVING is a rousing adventure where innermost desires intensely conflict with clear-cut priorities.

During a violent battle in 1067 on English soil against the Welsh, most of the Blood Sword knights are taken prisoner by this enemy of King William. Although seriously injured, Stefan de Valrey manages to hide and begins planning retribution against those who have caused him so much pain, both physically and emotionally. He also knows he must find some way to free the men who are like brothers to him. While resting to regain some strength, he unexpectedly ends up in a confrontation where he rescues a Welsh princess from a brutal attack. Stefan now knows he has the means to liberate the captured Blood Swords, so he takes the woman as his hostage in order to swap her for the men.

When Arianrhod left Dinefwr Castle to travel across England to reach her betrothed, she could never have imagined how her life would quickly change. She goes from being a pampered princess to a woman held as a pawn by a mercenary knight, and Arian knows she must protect her virtue or her future husband may reject her. However, every moment spent with Stefan only confuses her more, as her feelings for the man become more desirous with each new understanding. When their awareness of each other wants to overrule their main objectives, Stefan and Arian find themselves facing decisions which will have a lasting impact on not only them.

Each scene of a story by Karin Tabke will leave readers spellbound. This gifted author will have you experiencing all the enthralling moments of her books, regardless of the setting or time period. The medieval novels by Ms. Tabke are some of the best I have read, as I am transported to a romanticized historical location where she lets my imagination visualize such realistic scenes. Add in plenty of strikingly attractive knights and the story is even more enchanting. From the start of MASTER OF CRAVING, one gets a sense of just how determined the hero and heroine will be in this story and they certainly do not disappoint. Stefan is trustworthy and his loyalty to those in whom he believes is admirable. The feisty nature of Arian had me cheering her on more than once, as she stood her ground plus spoke her mind. Ms. Tabke creates some clever dialogue between Stefan and Arian, and their convincing reactions to any arising situations seemed completely believable. When it comes to romantic couples, these two are one of the best I have read about lately. The sexual tension is absolutely palpable whenever they are together, and I could feel their restraint wavering on numerous occasions as the combustible heat between them only needed one tiny spark to make their control go up in flames. And when it does finally ignite, the encounter is breathtaking. As a medieval story, I was held entranced during every fascinating moment by the mastery of period details, whether the scene was only emotionally engaging about a belief or featured a fierce battle with swords drawn. There are many dangerous escapades throughout this story, and a number of them will leave your heart pounding with trepidation. A couple of unforeseen turns will definitely surprise the reader and cause you to wonder about the consequences. Many previous characters make an appearance to keep the story entertaining, and I look forward to seeing more tales about them. MASTER OF CRAVING is an irresistible story about a turbulent time where true love can change the destiny of many.

Reviewed for SingleTitles

Every once in awhile you come across good solid writers and Karin Tabke is one of them. From her first book in this series through the third book, "Master of Craving" all three are intelligently written with strong complex characters, believable dialog, and a depth of understanding lacking in many books these days. I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Stefan and Arian and couldn't put it down. The good news is there are five more books to come as there are eight Blood Swords! Five worthy stars!

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