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The Crimson Outlaw
Love is the greatest outlaw of all.
Vali Florescu, heir to a powerful local boyar, flees his father’s cruelty to seek his fortune in the untamed Carpathian forests. There he expects to fight ferocious bandits and woo fair maidens to prove himself worthy of returning to depose his tyrannical father. But when he is ambushed by Mihai Roscat, the fearsome Crimson Outlaw, he discovers that he’s surprisingly happy to be captured and debauched instead.
Mihai, once an honoured knight, has long sought revenge against Vali’s father, Wadim, who killed his lord and forced him into a life of banditry. Expecting his hostage to be a resentful, spoiled brat, Mihai is unprepared for the boy to switch loyalties, saving the lives of villagers and of Mihai himself during one of Wadim’s raids. Mihai is equally unprepared for the attraction between them to deepen into love.
Vali soon learns that life outside the castle is not the fairy tale he thought, and happy endings must be earned. To free themselves and their people from Wadim’s oppression, Vali and Mihai must forge their love into the spear-point of a revolution and fight for a better world for all.
Vali Florescu, heir to a powerful local boyar, flees his father’s cruelty to seek his fortune in the untamed Carpathian forests. There he expects to fight ferocious bandits and woo fair maidens to prove himself worthy of returning to depose his tyrannical father. But when he is ambushed by Mihai Roscat, the fearsome Crimson Outlaw, he discovers that he’s surprisingly happy to be captured and debauched instead.
Mihai, once an honoured knight, has long sought revenge against Vali’s father, Wadim, who killed his lord and forced him into a life of banditry. Expecting his hostage to be a resentful, spoiled brat, Mihai is unprepared for the boy to switch loyalties, saving the lives of villagers and of Mihai himself during one of Wadim’s raids. Mihai is equally unprepared for the attraction between them to deepen into love.
Vali soon learns that life outside the castle is not the fairy tale he thought, and happy endings must be earned. To free themselves and their people from Wadim’s oppression, Vali and Mihai must forge their love into the spear-point of a revolution and fight for a better world for all.
121 pages, ebook
First published August 10, 2013
About the author
Alex Beecroft
42 books299 followersSpaceships and galaxy spanning empires, conversations with angels, viking villages, haunted mansions and forbidden love in the Age of Sail... I love a good strong plot in an exotic setting, with characters you can admire, and a happy ending.
If you make a venn diagram of genres, including historical, fantasy, gay romance and mystery, I occupy the space in the middle where they overlap.
~
BTW, if you're thinking my reviews on here are a bit mean, most of the books I really enjoy will get a 4 star. I am saving 5 stars for books I find genuinely life changing. 4 is still "this was really really good, you should read it." 5 is "OMG, my mind is blown and my life will never be the same again."
If you make a venn diagram of genres, including historical, fantasy, gay romance and mystery, I occupy the space in the middle where they overlap.
~
BTW, if you're thinking my reviews on here are a bit mean, most of the books I really enjoy will get a 4 star. I am saving 5 stars for books I find genuinely life changing. 4 is still "this was really really good, you should read it." 5 is "OMG, my mind is blown and my life will never be the same again."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
September 18, 2014
A wonderful, fairytale-like story with richly developed settings and interesting characters – what more could you wish for, right? Hm. Kind of.
I'll start with the best thing in this novella: the settings. It might be because Romania is a place I'm familiar with, since my parents are Romanian and I visit the country regularly, but every scene came alive right before my eyes. It's clear that the author's research is precise and in depth – believe me, I've personally seen rooms, houses and villages like those she describes, and in some places they're exactly the same today as they were two hundred years ago. Well, with the addition of electricity and running water.
Even the characters' names are correctly spelled – most of them, at least – and I loved how the author used the Romanian term for food and drinks that exist in the rest of the world too, but with slight differences that make using a specific term necessary. Being pretty nit-picky when spellings and grammar are concerned, I do have to mention the sometimes incorrect spelling of these words and the fact that I think non-Romanian-speaking readers would appreciate a glossary.
To make a story this atmospheric and easy to visualise, I understand that the author felt the need to describe everything very in depth, but personally I think she went a bit overboard on that. In some parts the flow of the story was interrupted by mile long descriptions, and that made it even easier to put down.
And here comes my first complaint: the complete lack of tension. It's an interesting, pleasant story, but there was no thrill to keep me glued to the pages. That is not to say that I was bored, but... well, I was. A little bit.
The characters had me conflicted. They're original, consistent and easy to empathise with, but they would have needed a much longer story arc to have the time to develop fully. For example, Vali's conflictual, complex relationship with his father had the potential for great tension; Wadim (oh, here's the name spelled wrong) is a violent man and a violent father as well, but he has the ability to show affection towards his son in a way that made a sort of grudging respect and trust bloom in him. But was that affection real, or as calculated and cold underneath as the rest of his actions? I got a few clues in regards to that, but didn't get to find out for sure, because this part of the story was cut short and underdeveloped after the initial scene in a way that some might consider apt and dramatic – others a convenient shortcut.
Vali's character development and personal growth are more convincing: we get to see him start as a pampered, dreamy, almost childish young nobleman and become someone stronger, with firmer moral principles and a deeper understanding of other people. His relationship with Mihai is intriguing, but, again, underdeveloped.
All of the characters in this story appear colourful, three-dimensional and distinctive; the problem is that I felt as if I weren't able to get closer to them and get a better look inside their heart and head, and was stuck with a clear but quickly gathered impression.
Summing up, this is a well researched, beautifully crafted and original story with a setting that, at least for me, shone brighter than the (admittedly wonderful) characters did – and while that can be interesting at times, it's not really what I wanted from this story.
Originally reviewed for The Blog of Sid Love, which is now dead.
I'll start with the best thing in this novella: the settings. It might be because Romania is a place I'm familiar with, since my parents are Romanian and I visit the country regularly, but every scene came alive right before my eyes. It's clear that the author's research is precise and in depth – believe me, I've personally seen rooms, houses and villages like those she describes, and in some places they're exactly the same today as they were two hundred years ago. Well, with the addition of electricity and running water.
Even the characters' names are correctly spelled – most of them, at least – and I loved how the author used the Romanian term for food and drinks that exist in the rest of the world too, but with slight differences that make using a specific term necessary. Being pretty nit-picky when spellings and grammar are concerned, I do have to mention the sometimes incorrect spelling of these words and the fact that I think non-Romanian-speaking readers would appreciate a glossary.
To make a story this atmospheric and easy to visualise, I understand that the author felt the need to describe everything very in depth, but personally I think she went a bit overboard on that. In some parts the flow of the story was interrupted by mile long descriptions, and that made it even easier to put down.
And here comes my first complaint: the complete lack of tension. It's an interesting, pleasant story, but there was no thrill to keep me glued to the pages. That is not to say that I was bored, but... well, I was. A little bit.
The characters had me conflicted. They're original, consistent and easy to empathise with, but they would have needed a much longer story arc to have the time to develop fully. For example, Vali's conflictual, complex relationship with his father had the potential for great tension; Wadim (oh, here's the name spelled wrong) is a violent man and a violent father as well, but he has the ability to show affection towards his son in a way that made a sort of grudging respect and trust bloom in him. But was that affection real, or as calculated and cold underneath as the rest of his actions? I got a few clues in regards to that, but didn't get to find out for sure, because this part of the story was cut short and underdeveloped after the initial scene in a way that some might consider apt and dramatic – others a convenient shortcut.
Vali's character development and personal growth are more convincing: we get to see him start as a pampered, dreamy, almost childish young nobleman and become someone stronger, with firmer moral principles and a deeper understanding of other people. His relationship with Mihai is intriguing, but, again, underdeveloped.
All of the characters in this story appear colourful, three-dimensional and distinctive; the problem is that I felt as if I weren't able to get closer to them and get a better look inside their heart and head, and was stuck with a clear but quickly gathered impression.
Summing up, this is a well researched, beautifully crafted and original story with a setting that, at least for me, shone brighter than the (admittedly wonderful) characters did – and while that can be interesting at times, it's not really what I wanted from this story.
Originally reviewed for The Blog of Sid Love, which is now dead.
August 13, 2013
**3.5 stars**
This was my first read by Alex Beecroft and I have to say, I'm super impressed with her writing. The story has almost a magical feel to it, so much so that I had to double check to see if this was fantasy or historical fiction. It is the way the author phrases things- everything sounds so poetic and thoughtful. It was beautiful to read.
My favorite part of this story was learning about the people that Vali and Mahai encountered, whether it be random peasants, bandits, or healers... anyone, really. The new person would be introduced and **BAM**, I felt like I knew who these people were. The author did an amazing job crafting each individual personality in just a few words.
That said, I had a little bit of trouble engaging in the romantic aspect of the story. I'm not sure if it was because it was a historical (a weak genre for me) or because the writing was so floaty (if that makes sense) that I had difficulties feeling connected to Vali and Mahai as a couple. I never became that invested in their relationship. I also sometimes felt a bit lost as to what exactly was happening. I'm not sure if that is just me being slow or if this book lends itself to some confusion.
Despite some minor issues, this book was a really lovely read. It was a nice balance of action and romance and a success in my book.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
This was my first read by Alex Beecroft and I have to say, I'm super impressed with her writing. The story has almost a magical feel to it, so much so that I had to double check to see if this was fantasy or historical fiction. It is the way the author phrases things- everything sounds so poetic and thoughtful. It was beautiful to read.
My favorite part of this story was learning about the people that Vali and Mahai encountered, whether it be random peasants, bandits, or healers... anyone, really. The new person would be introduced and **BAM**, I felt like I knew who these people were. The author did an amazing job crafting each individual personality in just a few words.
That said, I had a little bit of trouble engaging in the romantic aspect of the story. I'm not sure if it was because it was a historical (a weak genre for me) or because the writing was so floaty (if that makes sense) that I had difficulties feeling connected to Vali and Mahai as a couple. I never became that invested in their relationship. I also sometimes felt a bit lost as to what exactly was happening. I'm not sure if that is just me being slow or if this book lends itself to some confusion.
Despite some minor issues, this book was a really lovely read. It was a nice balance of action and romance and a success in my book.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
August 12, 2013
3.5 stars
Every book should end with the line "They almost broke the bed between them"! It should be the new "the end"! Brilliant.
This book...was so heroic and masculine and strong and exciting...handsome. Yes, this book was HANDSOME.
Vali, the young lord and Mihai (*swoooon*) the big-hearted bandit - what a couple they make. Lovers and fighters and good, good men. Their relationship was so dear and tender and filled with love and devotion and protection.
I so thoroughly enjoyed this book. I was, admittedly, confused at parts. But, didn't mind going back to reread and clarify. Worth it.
Seems like Alex Beecroft has made me a fan of historicals! 2 for 2!
August 13, 2013
4.5 Stars
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
I jumped at the chance to read and review this latest offering by Alex Beecroft. I’m happy to say, I found myself charmed with this historical adventure and wishing there were more pages. The author’s writing flows beautifully; with details so rich they placed me directly into the story. She drew me completely into the emotions of young Vali as he set off on his errant path to discovery.
Vali is the impetuous and naive nineteen year old son of Wadim, a Romanian Boyar. As the story opens, we find Vali’s sister, Stela, is about to proceed with her arranged marriage to the much older Ionescu – much to the chagrin and disgust of Vali. Vali has concocted what he believes to be a glorious plan to thwart the nuptials and bring about Stela’s escape to a life of freedom beyond the castle walls. It seems Vali considers Ionescu to be too old, too ugly, too oppressive and just plain unworthy of Stela. Hmm, Vali, I do believe you should be looking closer to your own flesh and blood for someone who fits that bill….
Let’s just say that Vali’s plan does not go well – in fact it is a complete disaster. Instead, Vali finds himself being publicly humiliated by his father for his antics, which led to total mayhem, and much embarrassment to Wadim’s stature. Once all the guests have gone, Vali’s father proceeds to beat him severely, and has him thrown in the dungeon as further punishment. The beating scene was quite harsh and difficult to read, but it served as Vali’s first true wake- up call as to the extremely violent and ruthless nature of his father. Between his beating and some discoveries he makes while in the dungeon, Vali begins to understand the heinous acts his father is capable of, although he has difficulty wrapping his mind around it.
I started out chuckling to myself as I was reading of Vali’s fanciful scheme to “save” his sister, but my heart quickly landed in my throat and I was shouting at my e-reader when it became evident what kind of hateful man his father was. Vali proved resourceful, and was able to escape the dungeon. I was cheering for him all the way! Vali was determined to return to the castle only after he had devised a way to help some of the others he had met while held captive there. Vali’s emotions are actually in turmoil as he makes his escape. He is still shocked at the severity of his father’s actions, he feels betrayed by Stela’s refusal to follow his plan, and he is uncertain of his future – both immediate and long term.
Vali doesn’t realize it at this point, but his flight from the castle is going to lead him headlong into having his eyes opened; regarding both the truth about his father’s ruthless ways and his own idealistic view of the world. Vali won’t be alone in this however, for he soon meets Mihai, a man who is all too personally familiar with the brutal practices of Wadim, and the harsh realities of life under his rule.
Mihai is also familiar with the feeling of instant attraction and obvious lust that springs up immediately between him and Vali..The deep emotional attraction between Vali and Mihai was also decidedly evident in their initial meeting and beyond. Something neither was familiar with. ;-) Even though Mihai was Vali’s first sexual partner, their intimate scenes were very believable – very hot.
As the story unfolds, I love the genuine manner in which Vali comes to his realizations about the world outside castle walls. He witnesses heinous acts committed by his father’s knights against villagers, he works at menial labor, he tends the sick and wounded. At Mihai’s side, Vali realizes that even Bandits are human, and he becomes sympathetic with many of them once he understands why they have turned to the lawless lives they now lead.
A chance mention by one of the bandits of his lost wife and son prompts Vali to come up with a plan to depose his father. Soon Vali, Mihai and the gang of bandits find themselves as unlikely partners in a bid to depose Wadim, and bring an end to his tyranny. Will they succeed and …. at what cost?
As one can interpret, there is a strong underlying social message (or two) in this story – walking a mile in another person’s shoes, good vs. evil – but by no means did I feel like these were “in my face”. Vali showed great courage and depth of character as he finally realized the atrocities that had been going on around him his whole life, and then setting out to rectify them. At the end of the story, Vali was still coming to terms with everything that had happened. It did leave me wishing for a bit more introspection on his part and insight in to how he was dealing with the ramifications of his actions.
I know we readers so often make the appeal for sequels, and I’m doing it here as well! Please Alex, write more adventures for Vali and Mihai. I need to know what happens next!
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
I jumped at the chance to read and review this latest offering by Alex Beecroft. I’m happy to say, I found myself charmed with this historical adventure and wishing there were more pages. The author’s writing flows beautifully; with details so rich they placed me directly into the story. She drew me completely into the emotions of young Vali as he set off on his errant path to discovery.
Vali is the impetuous and naive nineteen year old son of Wadim, a Romanian Boyar. As the story opens, we find Vali’s sister, Stela, is about to proceed with her arranged marriage to the much older Ionescu – much to the chagrin and disgust of Vali. Vali has concocted what he believes to be a glorious plan to thwart the nuptials and bring about Stela’s escape to a life of freedom beyond the castle walls. It seems Vali considers Ionescu to be too old, too ugly, too oppressive and just plain unworthy of Stela. Hmm, Vali, I do believe you should be looking closer to your own flesh and blood for someone who fits that bill….
Let’s just say that Vali’s plan does not go well – in fact it is a complete disaster. Instead, Vali finds himself being publicly humiliated by his father for his antics, which led to total mayhem, and much embarrassment to Wadim’s stature. Once all the guests have gone, Vali’s father proceeds to beat him severely, and has him thrown in the dungeon as further punishment. The beating scene was quite harsh and difficult to read, but it served as Vali’s first true wake- up call as to the extremely violent and ruthless nature of his father. Between his beating and some discoveries he makes while in the dungeon, Vali begins to understand the heinous acts his father is capable of, although he has difficulty wrapping his mind around it.
I started out chuckling to myself as I was reading of Vali’s fanciful scheme to “save” his sister, but my heart quickly landed in my throat and I was shouting at my e-reader when it became evident what kind of hateful man his father was. Vali proved resourceful, and was able to escape the dungeon. I was cheering for him all the way! Vali was determined to return to the castle only after he had devised a way to help some of the others he had met while held captive there. Vali’s emotions are actually in turmoil as he makes his escape. He is still shocked at the severity of his father’s actions, he feels betrayed by Stela’s refusal to follow his plan, and he is uncertain of his future – both immediate and long term.
Vali doesn’t realize it at this point, but his flight from the castle is going to lead him headlong into having his eyes opened; regarding both the truth about his father’s ruthless ways and his own idealistic view of the world. Vali won’t be alone in this however, for he soon meets Mihai, a man who is all too personally familiar with the brutal practices of Wadim, and the harsh realities of life under his rule.
Mihai is also familiar with the feeling of instant attraction and obvious lust that springs up immediately between him and Vali..The deep emotional attraction between Vali and Mihai was also decidedly evident in their initial meeting and beyond. Something neither was familiar with. ;-) Even though Mihai was Vali’s first sexual partner, their intimate scenes were very believable – very hot.
As the story unfolds, I love the genuine manner in which Vali comes to his realizations about the world outside castle walls. He witnesses heinous acts committed by his father’s knights against villagers, he works at menial labor, he tends the sick and wounded. At Mihai’s side, Vali realizes that even Bandits are human, and he becomes sympathetic with many of them once he understands why they have turned to the lawless lives they now lead.
A chance mention by one of the bandits of his lost wife and son prompts Vali to come up with a plan to depose his father. Soon Vali, Mihai and the gang of bandits find themselves as unlikely partners in a bid to depose Wadim, and bring an end to his tyranny. Will they succeed and …. at what cost?
As one can interpret, there is a strong underlying social message (or two) in this story – walking a mile in another person’s shoes, good vs. evil – but by no means did I feel like these were “in my face”. Vali showed great courage and depth of character as he finally realized the atrocities that had been going on around him his whole life, and then setting out to rectify them. At the end of the story, Vali was still coming to terms with everything that had happened. It did leave me wishing for a bit more introspection on his part and insight in to how he was dealing with the ramifications of his actions.
I know we readers so often make the appeal for sequels, and I’m doing it here as well! Please Alex, write more adventures for Vali and Mihai. I need to know what happens next!
July 2, 2016
A historical romance set in 18th century rural Romania involving a spoiled noble and an outlaw keen on revenge--how cool is that? It's a great idea and I liked this, but it felt perhaps a little underdeveloped. It's a big story in a small package and it was maybe a little too short to tell the story fully and could have been fleshed out quite a lot. It started very strongly, but then lost a bit of steam as it progressed and the ending felt a little rushed. The romance is pretty sappy and somewhat insta-lovey in flavour. I had some other niggles, but there's a lot to like here. Vali's an interesting character and his growth as a person is great. I really enjoyed the unconventional geographical location and the historical setting is vivid and different. I enjoy Alex Beecroft's writing and I appreciate the originality, but I wanted more from this story.
August 18, 2014
Well written story with good main characters that acted real. I have no idea where the story took place but it does not matter to the story itself. I enjoyed Vali and his plans to reverse his father's tyranny. This was a well put together fantasy.
December 20, 2014
Another well written and quite lovely historical offering from Alex Beecroft. This time on land! Review at http://ontopdownunderbookreviews.com/...
November 10, 2018
3.5/5
It was fun.
It was fun.
August 8, 2013
3 1/2 Hearts
Review written for http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
Vali might be heir to the local powerful boyar but it doesn't make him exempt from punishment, when he tries to save his sister from an unwanted marriage Vali begins to learn that his father isn't a good lord like he thought. Escaping from prison Vali is determined to return when he has proved himself, but he gets caught up in the plight of a local village and succumbs to a bandits seduction. Mihai is a bandit who wants revenge, his lord and many of his friends were killed when Vali's father, Wadim, wanted their land, now he does what he can to make life easier on all the villages under Wadim's rule. When he comes across Vali he expects to take him hostage to force Wadim's hand but he discovers the son is far different from the father and begins to fall for him. Both men have to fight for what they want but will they be able to get the results they both want without bloodshed?
This is a cute little story of wanted adventure and hard reality, of men from different walks of life meeting and loving and of a tyrant whose son finds it hard to hate him. Vali is a young man who doesn't realize his actions affect others, he doesn't think that his father is a bad lord even though he is a harsh father and he still has rose tinted glasses of what is happening in the world outside his castle. Mihai knows the truth about the tyranny of Wadim, he has lived through it and wants nothing more than to make the man pay, and he does so in a small way when he helps local villagers. When these two men come together they find common ground and an instant attraction that neither one fights.
This is a pretty good story that takes us back to a time when lords were god and everyone else were fodder. Vali is nineteen and sometimes comes across as whimsical in his feelings, he also seems to war with himself about his feelings for his father. He finally sees what his father is really like but still can't believe it, wanting to give his father the chance to do the right thing. Mihai has plans for Vali when he first discovers him but rapidly changes his mind, and the two together make a great couple as they recover and make plans. Vali doesn't make as much progress in the maturity stakes as you would expect with everything that he sees and goes through, it was more superficial stuff he thought of.
I recommend this if you love historicals with great details, bandits ravishing innocents, taking control of your life and finding happiness against the odds.
Review written for http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
Vali might be heir to the local powerful boyar but it doesn't make him exempt from punishment, when he tries to save his sister from an unwanted marriage Vali begins to learn that his father isn't a good lord like he thought. Escaping from prison Vali is determined to return when he has proved himself, but he gets caught up in the plight of a local village and succumbs to a bandits seduction. Mihai is a bandit who wants revenge, his lord and many of his friends were killed when Vali's father, Wadim, wanted their land, now he does what he can to make life easier on all the villages under Wadim's rule. When he comes across Vali he expects to take him hostage to force Wadim's hand but he discovers the son is far different from the father and begins to fall for him. Both men have to fight for what they want but will they be able to get the results they both want without bloodshed?
This is a cute little story of wanted adventure and hard reality, of men from different walks of life meeting and loving and of a tyrant whose son finds it hard to hate him. Vali is a young man who doesn't realize his actions affect others, he doesn't think that his father is a bad lord even though he is a harsh father and he still has rose tinted glasses of what is happening in the world outside his castle. Mihai knows the truth about the tyranny of Wadim, he has lived through it and wants nothing more than to make the man pay, and he does so in a small way when he helps local villagers. When these two men come together they find common ground and an instant attraction that neither one fights.
This is a pretty good story that takes us back to a time when lords were god and everyone else were fodder. Vali is nineteen and sometimes comes across as whimsical in his feelings, he also seems to war with himself about his feelings for his father. He finally sees what his father is really like but still can't believe it, wanting to give his father the chance to do the right thing. Mihai has plans for Vali when he first discovers him but rapidly changes his mind, and the two together make a great couple as they recover and make plans. Vali doesn't make as much progress in the maturity stakes as you would expect with everything that he sees and goes through, it was more superficial stuff he thought of.
I recommend this if you love historicals with great details, bandits ravishing innocents, taking control of your life and finding happiness against the odds.
August 4, 2013
This book wasn't long enough. I enjoyed the story, but I wanted more of Vali and Mihai. The writing was excellent - as is par for the course with Alex Beecroft - and the descriptions of the land and the people were fantastic. But it wasn't enough. I read the book in two short hours in the early hours of the morning when I couldn't sleep and kind of regretted that when it woke me up even further and required me to finish it.
Vali is a naïve, innocent young man who - despite his father's abuses - believes him to be a good man and a good lord. What he doesn't realize is, if Wadim can treat his son this way, then why would he treat the peasants any better? As the story unfolds, Vali learns from Mihai and others just how cruel his father is, and witnesses some of it first hand. But he still believes that he can take over his father's roll through peace with no more bloodshed.
Despite his experiences, Vali doesn't seem to grow much. Perhaps it's because of how short the book is, even though the timespan is longer. Even after facing down his father he still is hesitant to face his father's true nature. This part of him bothered me, and maybe that's why I wanted to see more from him. Even his sister, Stela, who is only on the page in the very beginning and the very end, shows more growth than he seems to.
Still, I enjoyed the story. I would like to see a sequel where Vali, in his new role with Mihai at his side, learns to navigate his life as the Boyar, and how the people under his command take to him.
Vali is a naïve, innocent young man who - despite his father's abuses - believes him to be a good man and a good lord. What he doesn't realize is, if Wadim can treat his son this way, then why would he treat the peasants any better? As the story unfolds, Vali learns from Mihai and others just how cruel his father is, and witnesses some of it first hand. But he still believes that he can take over his father's roll through peace with no more bloodshed.
Despite his experiences, Vali doesn't seem to grow much. Perhaps it's because of how short the book is, even though the timespan is longer. Even after facing down his father he still is hesitant to face his father's true nature. This part of him bothered me, and maybe that's why I wanted to see more from him. Even his sister, Stela, who is only on the page in the very beginning and the very end, shows more growth than he seems to.
Still, I enjoyed the story. I would like to see a sequel where Vali, in his new role with Mihai at his side, learns to navigate his life as the Boyar, and how the people under his command take to him.
November 6, 2015
This was a fun romp of a story. It was a little over the top but that was half the point I think. It left me with a smile on my face.
March 6, 2014
Yeah, I will be reading lots more of this author! The writing was crisp and smooth, the story was fast paced and the characters well rounded and real.
October 28, 2013
My only complaint is the book's too bloody short! Wanted more. Loved the playful nature between the two males.
Full review (appears in The Pink Tongue, November 2013)
It’s 1720 in Harghita County, Transylvania. and no, don’t expect vampires. Vali is the son of a nobleman, the cruel boyar Wadim Florescu. Amazingly, the lad has grown up untainted by his father’s generally nasty attitude – and his abuse. Vali is sweet-natured, an incurable romantic and tends to act before thinking things through.
Which is why he tries to derail his sister’s wedding to another lord old enough to be their father – a move which backfires horribly, and proves to be the final straw which drives Vali out into the world.
Well meaning but completely unprepared for the world beyond the castle’s walls, Vali quickly runs into trouble when a bandit in the forest tries to take him hostage. This bandit is none other than Mihai, who has a bit of an axe to grind with Wadim, and he reckons Vali’s going to make the perfect hostage.
The last thing Vali and Mihai expect is that they’d end up in a state of mutual fascination that runs deeper than mere lust. Of course there’s still the problem of a tyrannical lord to overthrow and a village to save, which adds an extra dimension to this blooming romance.
The Crimson Outlaw has it all: authentic world-building (you really do feel like you’re in Transylvania); plenty of well-realised action sequences, swords and all; and of course the sparks that fly between Vali and Mihai. If I can level any criticism against the story it’s that it’s over so quickly, which is a measure of how well Alex Beecroft drew me in that I regretted reaching the ending so soon. I wanted a lot more.
Vali really is adorable. You want to groan quietly at his naïveté but there’s something quite refreshing about encountering a character who has such a big heart and cheery outlook. GrimDark this is not, but The Crimson Outlaw is a highly entertaining read nonetheless that will leave you smiling. Beecroft has a light, lyrical touch with her words and her story is an absolute pleasure if you’re looking for a feel-good, historical diversion from your daily grind.
Full review (appears in The Pink Tongue, November 2013)
It’s 1720 in Harghita County, Transylvania. and no, don’t expect vampires. Vali is the son of a nobleman, the cruel boyar Wadim Florescu. Amazingly, the lad has grown up untainted by his father’s generally nasty attitude – and his abuse. Vali is sweet-natured, an incurable romantic and tends to act before thinking things through.
Which is why he tries to derail his sister’s wedding to another lord old enough to be their father – a move which backfires horribly, and proves to be the final straw which drives Vali out into the world.
Well meaning but completely unprepared for the world beyond the castle’s walls, Vali quickly runs into trouble when a bandit in the forest tries to take him hostage. This bandit is none other than Mihai, who has a bit of an axe to grind with Wadim, and he reckons Vali’s going to make the perfect hostage.
The last thing Vali and Mihai expect is that they’d end up in a state of mutual fascination that runs deeper than mere lust. Of course there’s still the problem of a tyrannical lord to overthrow and a village to save, which adds an extra dimension to this blooming romance.
The Crimson Outlaw has it all: authentic world-building (you really do feel like you’re in Transylvania); plenty of well-realised action sequences, swords and all; and of course the sparks that fly between Vali and Mihai. If I can level any criticism against the story it’s that it’s over so quickly, which is a measure of how well Alex Beecroft drew me in that I regretted reaching the ending so soon. I wanted a lot more.
Vali really is adorable. You want to groan quietly at his naïveté but there’s something quite refreshing about encountering a character who has such a big heart and cheery outlook. GrimDark this is not, but The Crimson Outlaw is a highly entertaining read nonetheless that will leave you smiling. Beecroft has a light, lyrical touch with her words and her story is an absolute pleasure if you’re looking for a feel-good, historical diversion from your daily grind.
October 30, 2013
It's cool because it has the ring of authenticity to it.
I'm a bit confused about the beating, though. I'd think he'd still be hurting, even if the bruises "weren't that bad." He also got punctured by the buckle a couple of times, didn't he?
I was surprised by the references to finery. For some reason, I wasn't really expecting it.
The portrayal of hypothermia was odd. I don't think it was quite accurate. For one thing, the warming-up process would have been pretty painful. I doubt he would have found Mihai's heat pleasant as he was unthawing, especially since Mihai apparently runs hotter than the average human.
I think the length worked against it. It was truncated, almost. I simultaneously liked it and was indifferent towards it.
I'm a bit confused about the beating, though. I'd think he'd still be hurting, even if the bruises "weren't that bad." He also got punctured by the buckle a couple of times, didn't he?
I was surprised by the references to finery. For some reason, I wasn't really expecting it.
The portrayal of hypothermia was odd. I don't think it was quite accurate. For one thing, the warming-up process would have been pretty painful. I doubt he would have found Mihai's heat pleasant as he was unthawing, especially since Mihai apparently runs hotter than the average human.
I think the length worked against it. It was truncated, almost. I simultaneously liked it and was indifferent towards it.
August 7, 2013
I jumped at the chance to read and review this latest offering by Alex Beecroft. I’m happy to say, I found myself charmed with this historical adventure and wishing there were more pages. The author’s writing flows beautifully; with details so rich they placed me directly into the story. She drew me completely into the emotions of young Vali as he set off on his errant path to discovery...
Please read my entire review here:
http://liveyourlifebuythebook.wordpre...
December 7, 2013
I always pounce on Alex's new releases so grabbed this as soon as I released it was out - it sometimes takes me a while to remember. I've really been enjoying the freedom she's had since wriggling out from under the heel of formulaic romance and being able to experiment a bit.
This story is a little more overtly romancey than some of her latest offerings, but also has a romp-along plot and plenty of violent incident. Loved it.
More here.
This story is a little more overtly romancey than some of her latest offerings, but also has a romp-along plot and plenty of violent incident. Loved it.
More here.
April 7, 2014
Intriguing Eastern European historical setting, and the best final sentence ever.
August 20, 2018
While I didn’t like the cover for this book, the contents were better. I really liked the uncommon setting though some of the descriptions were vague. Vali is quite naive in the beginning of this story but does grow over the course of it. I found the pacing a little off - some spots rushed while others lingered too long. On the whole I think it would have been better if fleshed out a little more. The one sex scene bothered me as it felt like Vali was taking advantage somehow.
On the whole I liked the story despite the issues.
On the whole I liked the story despite the issues.
January 19, 2020
I liked the concept and the characters, but this would have worked much better as a full-length novel as opposed to a short story. The pacing was rushed and jumped around a lot to cram everything into so few words, and given that it wasn't a modern setting, the result was occasionally a little confusing and disjointed. I generally enjoyed it, which made it all the more disappointing because I think it could have been much stronger.
October 3, 2022
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December 23, 2017
This was a really great book with a really unique setting! Gay romance set in feudal eastern Europe wasn't a thing I knew I needed! Vali and Mihai are both likeable characters and the romance between them is charming and steamy!
October 28, 2018
This was terrible. Just terrible. Just...terrible.
March 5, 2019
Captivating! I liked Vali and Mihai!
October 13, 2013
Vali is the son of a powerful and ruthless lord. Vali made and attempt to save his sister from an arranged marriage to a man with a mangled face and the same age as their father. When things didn't turn out the way he had planned, Vali's father beat him near death and threw him in the dungeon. Vali then escaped and went out to find his own path. It was then he befriended the some of the towns people and really found out how cruel and merciless his father really is.
The book started out very interesting and hooked me right out of the gate. There was a purpose and self discovery and charting your own course and then... nothing really. Actually, after Vali and Mihai's first encounter together (which was pretty good) that is when the story just dwindled downhill. It was interesting enough that I finished the book but I found myself nodding off occasionally. The relationship between Vali and Mihai could have been so much greater and I personally wanted more interaction between them. I didn't feel any real emotions between them and the little bit of sex they did have was just ok, but not great.
The book isn't bad and the story is interesting but I just needed more. I'm not exactly sure what "more" is though. Maybe I needed more action? More sex? More of a believable relationship between Vali and Mihai? I don't know. I will say that the book is well written and I really like the fact that its unique and takes place in Romania. However, I really don't like the cover and I think that it will turn a lot of people away. I am a cover whore and I decided to give this book a chance because the blurb sounded interesting. I'm happy I did, but would recommend a cover change. This is really a 2.5 star read for me.
I received a copy of this book from Riptide Publishing and Alex Beecroft via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The book started out very interesting and hooked me right out of the gate. There was a purpose and self discovery and charting your own course and then... nothing really. Actually, after Vali and Mihai's first encounter together (which was pretty good) that is when the story just dwindled downhill. It was interesting enough that I finished the book but I found myself nodding off occasionally. The relationship between Vali and Mihai could have been so much greater and I personally wanted more interaction between them. I didn't feel any real emotions between them and the little bit of sex they did have was just ok, but not great.
The book isn't bad and the story is interesting but I just needed more. I'm not exactly sure what "more" is though. Maybe I needed more action? More sex? More of a believable relationship between Vali and Mihai? I don't know. I will say that the book is well written and I really like the fact that its unique and takes place in Romania. However, I really don't like the cover and I think that it will turn a lot of people away. I am a cover whore and I decided to give this book a chance because the blurb sounded interesting. I'm happy I did, but would recommend a cover change. This is really a 2.5 star read for me.
I received a copy of this book from Riptide Publishing and Alex Beecroft via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 29, 2013
Here are some thoughts on this book!
- I loved the time period and the setting! I don't think I've read anything else set in Romania, so this was an interesting introduction to a new time/place that you don't see very often in books. You get a fairly good picture of the setting, the politics of the region, the way that the the outlying villages relate to the larger kingdom, etc. Beecroft writes excellent descriptions of the setting, as well as things like clothing, so you really get a good picture of what's going on.
- The character development of Vali is fantastic. Even though this story takes place over a fairly short amount of time, he makes a very believable transformation from an impulsive son of privilege to someone who really wants to make a difference in the lives of the people under his father's rule. He gets a whole bunch of rude awakenings in very quick succession that help him change his tune. I have a lot of hope that Vali will continue to grow and become an awesome ruler in his own right.
- The scenes between Vali and Mihai are hot! There's an instant attraction between them, and the build up to them first getting together will have you turning pages. While the sex scenes are great, there's still plenty of plot and character development and relationship building between the two.
- I do wish that the story were a bit longer -- some of the "Vali and Mihai get closer" scenes are kind of handwaved, and I would have loved to read more about Vali's upbringing, to really help connect me with his past and his family -- but it is short and sweet, and leaves you wanting more.
- I loved the time period and the setting! I don't think I've read anything else set in Romania, so this was an interesting introduction to a new time/place that you don't see very often in books. You get a fairly good picture of the setting, the politics of the region, the way that the the outlying villages relate to the larger kingdom, etc. Beecroft writes excellent descriptions of the setting, as well as things like clothing, so you really get a good picture of what's going on.
- The character development of Vali is fantastic. Even though this story takes place over a fairly short amount of time, he makes a very believable transformation from an impulsive son of privilege to someone who really wants to make a difference in the lives of the people under his father's rule. He gets a whole bunch of rude awakenings in very quick succession that help him change his tune. I have a lot of hope that Vali will continue to grow and become an awesome ruler in his own right.
- The scenes between Vali and Mihai are hot! There's an instant attraction between them, and the build up to them first getting together will have you turning pages. While the sex scenes are great, there's still plenty of plot and character development and relationship building between the two.
- I do wish that the story were a bit longer -- some of the "Vali and Mihai get closer" scenes are kind of handwaved, and I would have loved to read more about Vali's upbringing, to really help connect me with his past and his family -- but it is short and sweet, and leaves you wanting more.
August 24, 2013
The first chapter immediately drew me into the world of our protagonist, Vali, and his ill-conceived attempt to save his sister from an arranged marriage. His failure to prevent the marriage only led to despair and pain as he's punished brutally and imprisoned by his own father, eyes now wide open to the man's merciless cruelty. Up until this point, the story was progressing nicely. However, once Vali managed to escape and ran into Mihai, a knight turned bandit, the story lost much of its potential in my opinion, which was so disappointing for me. I wanted to cheer Vali on, to enjoy his sexual awakening, his soul searching and eventual epiphany, but I didn't, not really. Vali and Mihai's attraction was a little too quick and too strong for my liking, and it felt a bit out of place in their rough and cutthroat society. I also couldn't help but notice the absence of heartfelt emotion in the book, the kind that affects the reader in unforgettable ways. Everything felt off somehow, as if the story and its characters needed more fleshing out, more heart. It was more of a storytelling than a book coming to life. So, even though the book was written very well, for me, it lacked the spark I needed to truly enjoy it. Really, it's not a bad story; it just wasn't the memorable tale I'd hoped it would be.
This copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review via NetGalley.
This copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review via NetGalley.
February 8, 2017
I have to admit that for the first half of this book I really struggled. I didn't like any of the characters and I wanted to throttle the main character, Vali, most of the time. However, after I got over the 50 page mark, things progressed in a way much more to my liking. The character growth and development was both massive and also made perfect sense given what the characters, Vali especially, was having to go through and experience. I'm definitely going to miss these characters now that I'm finished reading the book for the first time. I think my favorite parts of the book happened when Vali and Mihai were at Rodica's for a while. Definitely worth a read and I'd absolutely recommend it. I would caution, though, that there are parts of it that aren't for the faint of heart. People do die, and horrifically. There is violence against women and children, and there is even rape. I was not expecting it and was a little startled at first, so I thought I'd mention it here to try to save others that shock. It's still absolutely worth a read, though. It's a short, but intriguing, ride. I also think that this could (and perhaps even should) easily be turned into an anime. Also, the last line of the book? Loved it.
September 17, 2013
While a tad short, The Crimson Outlaw tells the story of Mihai and Vali and their eventual run into each other that leads to love.
Mihai is the Crimson Outlaw who Vali is captured by and though they are on opposite sides, Vali eventually see honor and goodness in Mihai while Mihai eventually sees that Vali is not a spoiled brat, but is in fact very brave.
Mihai is was knight who wants justice and he does whatever he needs to get that justice against Vali's evil and abusive father. Vali's father is a bad man, but Vali is innocent and too kind of a soul to fully grasp the evil in his father, but once he realizes that his nice little world is not so nice, he joins Mihai to set things right.
Mihai and Vali's romance while nice and enjoyable was somewhat too fast, but I guess that was because the length of the book. I felt the book could have used about 130 more pages or so, to fully flesh out the world and the characters and make me feel more invested in the world and their lives.
That being said, The Crimson Outlaw was good read that I would not mind seeing a sequel to and I def recommend other people checking it out!
-Atlas
Mihai is the Crimson Outlaw who Vali is captured by and though they are on opposite sides, Vali eventually see honor and goodness in Mihai while Mihai eventually sees that Vali is not a spoiled brat, but is in fact very brave.
Mihai is was knight who wants justice and he does whatever he needs to get that justice against Vali's evil and abusive father. Vali's father is a bad man, but Vali is innocent and too kind of a soul to fully grasp the evil in his father, but once he realizes that his nice little world is not so nice, he joins Mihai to set things right.
Mihai and Vali's romance while nice and enjoyable was somewhat too fast, but I guess that was because the length of the book. I felt the book could have used about 130 more pages or so, to fully flesh out the world and the characters and make me feel more invested in the world and their lives.
That being said, The Crimson Outlaw was good read that I would not mind seeing a sequel to and I def recommend other people checking it out!
-Atlas
March 3, 2014
A surprising lack of angst. Okay, there were some pretty darn angsty scenes in the beginning of the story but as it progressed there were surprisingly few. The MC moved from spoiled prince, to captive, to hero of the small town, to nursemaid, to vanquishing lord in relatively few pages. This may have been a huge problem for many authors but Beecroft pulled it off fairly well.
December 7, 2021
Much better than expected mostly due to historicals not being a favorite of mine. I loved the main characters. I also thought the evolution of the story was clever & the world building very realistic.
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