A Tale of Two Vikings by Sandra Hill

Two Vikings, Toste and Vagn Ivarsson, twins so identical that only a tiny birthmark differentiates them, find themselves in a battle to the death on their way to pillage a convent. Each brother believes the other to be dead, but each has been saved by a very different angel of mercy. Toste is under the care of Esme, a novice who doesn't trust men. After all, her own father and brothers keep trying to kill her for her inheritance. Vagn finds himself at the mercy of "Helga the Homely," who suffered years of teasing because of the nickname Toste gave her, and she's not real fond of Vagn, either.

I liked this book pretty well. I didn't Loooooove it! I did love how, Vagn and Toste could still hear each other in their heads. I felt more, the connection with Helga and Vagn. They seemed to have a more natural progression. I felt like Esme and Toste's story was a little reaching with the Kidnappings. It was a stretch and I didn't feel warm and Toasty. I felt like he used and manipulated, and not is a great way. If I were Esme, after the tasting in the barn, and the woodsman's hut, I would have felt used and cheap. But maybe that's just me.

I will probably revisit this story at another time. Maybe reread in a couple of months. ( I think I'm in a funk!) Several authors who I have Looooooved in the past, have been so-so lately. So for now, I'll give this a 3.5. It wasn't great, but an enjoyable little read. Who knows, next time, I may give it a 5! You be the judge!