Warprize

As the only Daughter of Xy, Xylara defied tradition and learned the healing arts. As a Master Healer, she helps her people and kingdom during the war with the Firelanders. But she, in good conscience, cannot allow the enemy warriors to die from wounds which she can heal. Never realizing that her good deeds would bring her to the attention of the Firelander Warlord, she learns their language and customs, befriending several prisoners and healing many others. When the Warlord demands her as his Warprize, she is stunned. She must give up everything and come to him with nothing other than that which he provides her. Her half-brother, King Xymund, agrees without consulting her. She knows this is the only way to ensure the safety of her people and understands her duty. Believing herself to be nothing more than a slave, she surrenders to the Warlord.

When Kier, Warlord of the Plains, first met Xylara, she was tending to his second in command. Although she learns of the prisoner’s rank, she does not notify the guards. In fact, she goes out of her way to ensure all of the prisoners’ safety and comfort. Kier knows that she is his Warprize; the woman who is discovered during a military campaign, one who renders aid and is desirable to the warlord. He believes that he can weave a new path with her at his side. But the obstacles in their way seem insurmountable. Can they overcome prejudices, communication problems, conspirators and assassins as well as their confusing feelings in order to make their relationship work?

Warprize is wonderful! Elizabeth Vaughan’s words paint a vivid picture of the Kingdom of Xy and all of the people involved. Xylara and Kier are well matched. Both are strong and independent but caring as well. They are open-minded enough to give their budding relationship the opportunity to blossom and grow. Xylara is truly of royal blood. Even with a resentful half-brother who seems to hate her, she is willing to sacrifice herself for her kingdom, just as she was raised to do. But she’s not one to sit back and let anyone take advantage of her. She’ll use her brain and healing skills to make a new path for herself with her Warlord. Kier is the kind of man every woman dreams of. He’s sexy, smart and sensitive. In addition, he really wants his Warprize to be happy. This story also touches on such issues as racial prejudice and cultural differences, while maintaining a great pace. In this, her debut novel, Ms. Vaughan has created a wonderful kingdom with interesting characters in Warprize. I look forward to more engaging stories from this new author since this Recommended Read was one I didn’t want to put down.

Reviewed by: Trang