Oriel is on a mission to an outlaw camp when she learns her brother, Reema, is one of the captives. When she sets out to free him, her decision takes her one a nasty course. Now branded as a traitor, she wears the traitor’s mark on her cheek, the lacerated marks on her back and embedded scars on her heart. That alone spoke the volumes of loyalty to her family. Now Oriel must flee or face capture, rape, torture, or be beaten to death by the outlaws. She wishes no more punishments. When she is rescued, she is certain her brother has returned but when she sees her deliverer is a Daamen trader, she doesn’t know what to think.

Jase is a Daamen trader and knows Oriel needs protection. Until she has recovered, he gives her friendship, protection and refuge. She is now his responsibility so she must see things in his perspective. While in his protective custody, he makes sure no one bothers her. Of all the women he has been with, this little woman stirs something in him that he never experienced with any other. Now if he can only mend her battered heart, perhaps she will open up to him in more ways than one.

Heart of a Traitor is a fascinating read. After discovering her brother in one of the Guard’s maneuvers, Oriel’s decision to either rescue him or set him free becomes a choice that burdens her with harsh chastening. When Jase and his shipmates come to her rescue, she soon learns that the Daamens are a people with the heart to forgive and lend friendship. Jase doesn’t like the fact that even after showing as much loyalty as Oriel has for her family, her brother left her to defend for herself. He makes it a point to become her protector and make sure no man ever touches her again.

Ms. Verdenius has cleverly penned two characters that will touch all the way to your soul. She has a style of writing that allows the reader to be in the center of the story, to feel the emotions the characters express and to visualize the whole ambience of the story, from the settings, to the warm embraces and the tender kisses. Ms. Verdenius’ characters are strong and driven and the reader cannot help but love them or desire to strangle them. Heart of a Traitor is terrific with a great plot and many twists and turns. This is a most captivating read by Ms. Verdenius that will leave a lasting impression for years to come. The Heart and Soul Series truly delivers!

Reviewed by: Linda L