Sian Bessey is an instant buy author for me so I shouldn't have been surprised by how much I loved this book! The setting was unique and the historical aspects were so fascinating. Rhiannon and Lief's love story was the sweetest thing. I had a hard time putting it down.

This was a great book by Sian Ann Bessey. I loved learning more about this time period and about this area. It was interesting to learn about the Vikings and how people in the British Isle felt about them. I also liked that there was a mystery that needed solving and that Rhiannon had to face her fears in order to help Leif find the real murder. I thought this story was well told and felt like we were taken back in time and were there with the characters.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

What a beautiful story! This historical fiction is based on many accurate historical details that the author read about. She soon realized that "the facts" would make a wonderful novel, and wonderful it is. The time period is brought to life through vivid writing describing the story's atmosphere. Readers are carried to Ireland and Wales in the 1100s when there were many Viking settlements around this area. This fact alone was very compelling to me.

Sian Ann Bessey has a way of quickly drawing you into any story she tells. This Viking Historical Romance has two main characters that are strong, determined, likable, and sympathetic. Your heart breaks for the many losses in Rhiannon's life. Leif, the Viking, is searching for a better and more peaceful way of living. Their paths cross one fateful night and things will never be the same for either one. I loved how seamlessly the threads of Rhiannon and Leif's lives are brought together through sundry of ways from raids, deceit, subterfuge, murder, and coming to know of Christianity. Though they come from different cultures and lands they can't stop thinking of one another. With the gifts of forgiveness, humility, trust, and respect, Rhiannon and Leif turn to each other to fight the evils around them. I really don't want to ruin the story for you by saying too much. All people need to appreciate for themselves the enjoyable experience of reading The Call of The Sea.

Wow! What an adventure!!
I loved this story and the mystery and action that made it. Leif was so enjoyable and I loved seeing the Christian influence in this story. If I were to wish for something a little different is that I would love more romance throughout. BUT! It also made sense. They were true enemies to lovers and the change had to happen gradually. The romance that was in this was absolute perfection. I loved the tenderness that Rhiannon and Leif had for each other. Gosh it was great. I really am looking forward to the next Viking book ♥️

Historical fiction is an amazing genre, you never know what wonderful time periods and discoveries will be made. Sian Ann Bessey doesn't miss with this Viking story set in Wales and Ireland.

They are from two different worlds, but Rhiannon and Leif are thrown in each other's paths time and time again. Their families are enemies. Leif's fellow Vikings killed her father, but Leif finds himself having compassion for Rhiannon. He uses this compassion and finds himself studying her God and Christianity.

Rhiannon loves the sea, she feels its pull. She finds herself under the protection of the king's household when her father is killed and her betrothal postponed. What she and Leif discover is a mystery that could change their lives forever,

Their chemistry is undeniable, his faith journey is beautiful, and the development of the relationship was something that was natural and everything it could and should be. I couldn't put this one down and I am sure it robbed me of some sleep that night.

I received an early copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest review

"The Call of the Sea" is a historical romance set in 1141 in Wales and Ireland. It's based on some events that really did happen, and the author filled in the details with fictional events and characters. The main characters were engaging, interesting, and reacted realistically to events. I cared about what happened to them. Initially, Rhiannon and Leif were on opposite sides: a Viking under Leif's command killed Rhiannon's father, leaving her without immediate family, a home, or a dowry. Her mother's sister's family took her in, putting her in the middle of political scheming.

A distraught Rhiannon told Leif something like "may God have mercy on you." Leif had always been more interested in sailing than raiding, and this moment haunted him. He talked to an Irish priest to learn about Rhiannon's God, one that has mercy. As a Viking chief's son, though, he's still expected to be useful when someone needed to secretly find out the truth about who killed Rhiannon's cousin's betrothed. When they meet again, Rhiannon must decide if she should forgive this changed Norseman and help him find the truth or expose him as an enemy.

Leif and Rhiannon shared interests and values and supported each other. There were plenty of exciting bits where the good guys were in danger from the bad guys. Leif came to a saving belief in Christ. There was no bad language or sex. Overall, I'd recommend this exciting adventure and slowly-building romance.

I have not ever read a book quite like this one. Sian Ann Bessey is an amazing author of historical fiction. I loved the way she included Vikings in this one about the people of Wales. She made this period of history jump off the page. And she included some great historical details at the end as well, so the reader learns just a little bit.

This would have been a hard period of time to live in. People died from disease or other things that we can help now far too often. Rhiannon had already lost her mother. And just when she least expects it, the Vikings kill her father. In front of her. That would have been something hard to recover from. I loved Rhiannon’s resilience and the way she helps her cousin later, as well.

Leif is a Viking who also witnessed Rhiannon’s father’s death. I loved the way he let that change him. He changes his believe in God because of it, and that was really a special part of the story. I also loved his curious mind. He’s unsure why he should believe things the way they have been presented. And works hard to find out the truth.

This is a sweeping story of love, intrigue, forgiveness and danger that you won’t want to miss!

I was sent an e-copy of The Call of the Sea as a gift from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

The Call of the Sea by Sian Ann Bessey is a Viking Christian Historical Romance based on true events and real people.

I loved this unique historical romance! It was definitely heavy on the historical events and lighter on the romance, but I still thoroughly enjoyed it! I loved that the main characters had a major impact on one another’s lives from the very moment they met. Without Rhiannon, Lief never would’ve found Christianity and would’ve spent his entire life pillaging and plundering with his brother. Without Lief, Rhiannon would’ve married a man who never could’ve made her the least bit happy. I loved how those events in the beginning of the book, however tragic, set the characters up for a happy ending.

I loved seeing Rhiannon and Lief work together to unveil the villain. They both had valuable information using their unique connections and without each other they couldn’t have discovered the truth! It was so fun to see two very different people from very different worlds come together and realize how well matched they are.

I also love how the plot and most of the characters are based on real people and events. It made the whole thing feel very real and believable. And I loved the unique time period and setting.

Although the romance didn’t fully come into play until the end of the book, you could definitely feel the connection between Rhiannon and Lief from the beginning. I really wish we could’ve seen them together on the page more, but considering they live very different lives in completely different places, it makes sense that they weren’t able to spend a ton of time alone together. But the few times they were together, their connection was very sweet and swoony.

If you enjoy historical fiction, Vikings, slow burn romance, a bit of mystery, deep relatable characters, and stories based on true events and real people, you should definitely read The Call of the Sea!

Absolutely loved it! I couldn’t put it down! The story flowed so well. I haven’t read any other books about Vikings so I wasn’t sure what I was expecting but this was definitely better than I imagined!
The story acknowledges the cultural differences and beliefs associated with them. Even though I don’t know much about Vikings it felt historically accurate and in line with what I’d expect. The characters were well written as well. The dual point of view is my favorite and I felt that it was crucial to this story.
Definitely recommend this book!!

4.5 stars! Leave it to Sian to immerse you in a world of ancient history, teaching you about Vikings and Welsh history in a way that will leave you yearning to want to learn more, but be thoroughly entertained through the journey.

I recently took a trip to Wales right before reading this book, and although unfortunately our trip was cut short, it left an impression on my soul, and I knew that I needed to return. As I read her book, I could imagine the rocky crags and the sweeping ocean views. I could picture the Viking ships coming ashore and see the immensely fortified castles described in the book.

This book is a rich historical fiction with a sweet romance interwoven throughout. I’m a sucker for romance, so I would’ve liked a bit more interaction between our hero and heroine, but I loved their friendship and reliance on each other. Their connection was instantaneous and the themes of forgiveness and hope as they grow to understand their cultural differences and see each other for their heart within was just beautiful.

I enjoyed the Christian themes in this book. I don’t always love Christian fiction, but I thought this story was told in a wonderful way. Watching Leif come to know Christ and then have a better understanding of humanity was just perfection.

And then to get to the end of the book, and read all of the wonderful historical notes, and realizing how many events in this book were based off true history was fascinating! I truly hope Sian will share more Welsh history with us, and continue to teach us through her beautiful stories. I only took half of a star off because this book was listed as historical romance, and I believe it is more historical fiction with a romance sub plot. Still a great story, highly recommend!

Wow! Exceptional story telling! Such a great story and excellent blend of history and romance. Easily in the top 5 favorites of the year!

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Why there are not more viking stories in the historical fiction section, I will never know.
BUT Sian Bessey has released the last one you’ll ever need! 😉

This book transports you to the salty oceans of Ireland. To the viking ships on the sea. (Maybe it’s the Norse blood in me, but I loved this one so much!)

The main characters are from very different worlds, but are brought together dispite their differences.

I loved seeing the cultures in this seamless historical fiction. The romance was sweet and satisfying. The themes of forgiveness and Christianity were well written.

This is a fabulous historical fiction that will sit on your shelf with grace and confidence.

And yes, this is one you’re going to want on your shelf. 😉

I have never read a book with Vikings in it before. I loved being introduced to this time period through the beautiful writing in this story. This book was written so well and the story line is fantastic. It has action, suspense, and romance all wrapped in one great read
#TheCalloftheSea #NetGalley

The Call of the Sea carries you to the coast of the Irish sea in a time of Vikings and Celtic kings to watch a beautiful romance blossom despite adversity, danger, and distance. Sian Ann Bessey masterfully pens a story that is both historically accurate and enchanting, and she uses captivating imagery to fully immerse the reader. As the story unfolded, I found myself on the coast of the Irish sea smelling the salt air and feeling the waves at my feet. I heard the hustle and bustle of the castle of a Celtic king as I walked across the cobblestone courtyard.  I saw the silhouettes of Viking ships approaching from across the sea. I truly felt like I was right there experiencing it all as the mystery and romance unfolded page after page, and it was wonderful. The imagery was not the only thing about this story that kept me spellbound. Both the romance and the mystery of the story were unpredictable and exciting, and the plot was well-paced and thrilling until the satisfying happily ever after. The story and its setting are unique and refreshing, and I appreciated the break from regency ballrooms and Victorian London (although I adore those settings) to experience something more ancient and enchanting. This was my first experience with the work of Sian Ann Bessey, and I guarantee you that it will not be my last.

I received a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes in exchange for my honest opinion. My thoughts are my own and I truly did enjoy it.

This is an era that I haven't read much of in fiction, and I was completely immersed in the setting and culture of the Welsh and the Vikings. The storytelling is rich in historic details that bring the book to life. Rhiannon is strong character who has much heartache weighing on her. I didn't see at first how on earth she and Leif, with so much between them, would be able to come together. I loved his redemption journey and his genuine search for forgiveness. The chemistry builds between them over time as their unlikely trust and friendship develops, and I appreciated the natural pace of their relationship. The suspenseful hunt for the murderer amid mystery and treason kept me glued to the pages as the layers are revealed bit by bit. I highly recommend this stirring historical romance!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

I'm a fan of historical fiction, but I don't often venture back more than the eighteenth century. Set in the year 1141, this book had potential to be completely confusing and bewildering but instead I found myself learning more about the history of the British Isles (specifically Ireland and Wales), Vikings, and how old worlds become new worlds.

The Call of the Sea tells the story of Rhiannon, a noble, young Cymry (Welsh) woman, and Leif, son of a Viking chief. When a Viking raid on Rhiannon's home goes violent and her father is killed, watching her grief leads Leif to question his lifestyle. Both are changed by the event, and the bulk of the story is how change, repentance and redemption through Christ can heal hearts and bring them together.

Even though the terminology and names are foreign, I found the genealogy, glossary, map, and pronunciation guide video to be extremely helpful as they added extra depth to a wonderfully adventurous story!

A special thanks to the author, Sian Ann Bessey, publisher Covenant Communications, and NetGalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

I was so drawn to this story! I loved how the characters grew and how the plot unfolded. It felt gentle but exciting at the same time. This historical romance is based on real events which made it even more interesting to me. A real Viking story!

Leif has such a good heart. I loved how he sought to learn more about the things he didn't understand. His curiosity led him to change his heart and then his actions. He worked hard to right wrongs, ease burdens and discover truth. He adored Rhiannon and it showed.

Rhiannon is the sweetest. I admired her courage and how she never lashed out in pain or anger. She was a character who was easy to love and root for. Her love of the sea was my favorite.

I loved every minute of this story. The ending really ramped up in intensity and I was fully invested, reading WAY too fast. So, so good.

Content: peril, violence, death. Kissing. Some Christian elements.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

Another wonderful historical romance from Sian Ann Bessey. It held me captive from beginning to end. It has suspense, intrigue, mystery, romance, historical and faith building experiences. It takes place between Ireland and Wales (as we know it today) in the 1100’s. Vikings were know for their pillaging and destruction. But Leif was an exception, I loved his character. Noble, honorable, caring and willing to open his heart to God. Rhiannon was destined to marry for the good of her kingdom. I the blink of an eye, everything changed. The historical facts and fictional story are woven together so well, I could not put this book down.

Who is ready to head back in time to the 1100's and read about Vikings? I can't begin to tell you how excited I was to read this book once Sian Ann Bessey announced that she was doing research about vikings! The anticipation kept building as she'd share teasers and such. Then I finally was able to read it. Let me tell you, I was hooked! I loved it! I felt like I was right there on the sea or seashore with Leif and Rhiannon. The emotions and fear and desires and uncertainties were all very palpable coming through the author's writing. I wanted to devour all of it right away but life was a little busy while I was reading so I spent a lot of time staring (and thinking) longingly at this book! It just released today as well as the audio on a platform where I have a subscription and I can't wait to go listen to it here really soon!

The author's note at the end of the book was really neat to read and discover that the story is based on historical figures and events. There are of course some liberties taken to turn it into a story. Make sure you read the notes at the end though. I found it all very fascinating.

Leif and Rhiannon have a pretty big obstacle that stands in their way but as they start to come to know each other more, they both experience a strong pull towards the other. I loved seeing their coming to better understand each other's cultures and beliefs and finding their own beliefs and strengths throughout their story.

And yes, there is definitely some suspense throughout the book that will have you guessing and sleuthing right along these characters. I loved reading about their adventures and searching and the sweet pull Leif and Rhiannon feel towards each other!

The themes of family and forgiveness and healing were very well written in this book. And were all part of what had me turning the pages quickly and wanting to know that all comes right in the end.

Definitely a must read!!! And has left me wanting more viking stories from this very talented author!

Content: Clean. There are a few skirmishes throughout the book with sword fighting and battles. A couple of the characters die or are hurt. But nothing overly graphic. The love story is sweet and clean, nothing more than a couple sweet kisses.

I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

When I heard this book was about Vikings, I was intrigued. It was even better than I imagined! Based on a true story, Sian Ann Bessey weaves a riveting tale of mystery, romance, forgiveness, and redemption. From the first, the story captured my imagination and I found it hard to put down. The attention to historical detail really made this story and time period come alive.

Rhiannon is an intelligent, thoughtful woman who loves the sea and finds solace and comfort from it. When a dinner welcoming a potential husband is disrupted by a brutal Viking attack, her world is turned upside down. Literally orphaned, she goes to live with Owain Gwynedd, the King of Cymry now known as modern Wales. When her cousin’s betrothed is brutally murdered, Rhiannon must decide if she is willing to trust her enemy to find the truth.

Leif, son of a Viking ruler is expected to take part in the raids bringing supplies and wealth home. In the last raid though, he can’t forget the beautiful woman whose world was shattered by their actions. Her parting words seared his soul. Leif seeks out the local Christian priest to better understand their meaning. Profoundly affected by this notion of redemption and forgiveness, Lief stops participating in raids and takes up a new profession as a silver smith.

When the brother of the Cymry King arrives on their shores pleading innocence in the murder of his niece’s betrothed, Leif offers to travel to Cymry and investigate, since he speaks Gaelic. When he sees Rhiannon again, he’s determined to seek her forgiveness and return what rightfully belongs to her. As the two form an unlikely friendship, they work to find the truth behind the murder.

I loved this story! The romance between seeming enemies was beautifully done. I loved how Rhiannon’s heart is softened by Leif’s sincerity. The mystery was compelling and I loved the way the clues were revealed throughout, The suspenseful ending leading up to a dramatic conclusion had me quickly turning the pages. I loved visiting this time period and hope that the author continues writing books in this world. Highly recommend this book to historical fiction and romance readers. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review. 4 1/2 stars raised to 5.