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The Sheik Retold
RONE Finalist 2014, LASR Best Book Nominee 2013
The Desert was Never Hotter!
A haughty young heiress for whom the world is a playground... A savage son of the Sahara who knows no law but his own...When pride and passion vie for supremacy, blistering desert days are nothing compared to sizzling Sahara nights...
"There will be inquiries." I choked out. "I am not such a nonentity that nothing will be done when I am missed. You will pay dearly for what you have done."
"Pay?" His amused look sent a cold feeling of dread through me. "I have already paid... in gold that matches your hair, my gazelle. Besides," he continued, "the French have no jurisdiction over me. There is no law here above my own."
My trepidation was growing by the minute. "Why have you done this? Why have you brought me here?"
"Why?" He repeated with a slow and heated appraisal that made me acutely, almost painfully, conscious of my sex. "Bon Dieu! Are you not woman enough to know?"
Pride and passion vie for supremacy between a haughty young heiress and a savage son of the Sahara in this fresh new telling of E.M. Hull's romance classic.
The Desert was Never Hotter!
A haughty young heiress for whom the world is a playground... A savage son of the Sahara who knows no law but his own...When pride and passion vie for supremacy, blistering desert days are nothing compared to sizzling Sahara nights...
"There will be inquiries." I choked out. "I am not such a nonentity that nothing will be done when I am missed. You will pay dearly for what you have done."
"Pay?" His amused look sent a cold feeling of dread through me. "I have already paid... in gold that matches your hair, my gazelle. Besides," he continued, "the French have no jurisdiction over me. There is no law here above my own."
My trepidation was growing by the minute. "Why have you done this? Why have you brought me here?"
"Why?" He repeated with a slow and heated appraisal that made me acutely, almost painfully, conscious of my sex. "Bon Dieu! Are you not woman enough to know?"
Pride and passion vie for supremacy between a haughty young heiress and a savage son of the Sahara in this fresh new telling of E.M. Hull's romance classic.
Unknown Binding
First published September 6, 2013
About the author
Victoria Vane
54 books546 followersABOUT VICTORIA VANE
Victoria Vane is a bestselling award-winning author of smart and sexy romance. Her books have received many accolades to include the 2016 Red Carpet Award for Jewel of the East, 2014 RONE Award for Treacherous Temptations as well as Library Journal Best E-Book romance of 2012 for The Devil DeVere series. Victoria also writes romantic historical fiction as Emery Lee. Look for her new Highland saga coming summer of 2017.
Contact info:
Email: [email protected] Website: www.victoriavane.com
Blog: www.embracingromance.com
Blog:https://wildandwickedcowboys.wordpres...
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/YVeXrf
Twitter: @authorvictoriav Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1vONQZh
Amazon: http://amzn.to/10QMKT5 Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1sccsM4
YOU TUBE : http://bit.ly/1yNtEMP
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
2016 Red Carpet Finalist for ROUGH RIDER
2016 Red Carpet Finalist for JEWEL OF THE EAST
2015 Red Carpet Finals for SLOW HAND
2014 RONE Award for Treacherous Tempatations
2014 Rone Nomination for The Sheik Retold also LASR Best Book 2013 Nominee
THE DEVIL DEVERE SERIES
Library Journal Best E-Book Romance 2012, LR Cafe Best Series Nominee 2012
A Wild Night's Bride
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
•IRC Reader's Choice historical romance nominee
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
The Virgin Huntress
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
The Devil You Know
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
• The Romance Reviews Best Historical Romance Nominee
• LR Café Best Historical Romance nominee 2012
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
The Devil's Match
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
• The Romance Reviews Top Pick
• LASR Reviews Book of the Month December 2012
• Swept Away by Romance Best Historical Romance of 2012
• LR Café Best Author Nominee 2012
• Swept Away by Romance Favorite Author 2012
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
A Devil's Touch
Swept Away by Romance Best Novella 2013 nominee
A Breach of Promise , December 2011 Ellora's Cave
• Night Owl Reviews “Top Pick”
• Reading Romances 5 flames and “Pen Award”
• TBR Pile 5stars/Book of the month winner September 2012
• LASR Erotic Reviews 5 STAR/Book of the Month Nominee
• The Romance Studio 5 Sweetheart Nominee
• TRS CAPA Nominee 2012
Victoria Vane is a bestselling award-winning author of smart and sexy romance. Her books have received many accolades to include the 2016 Red Carpet Award for Jewel of the East, 2014 RONE Award for Treacherous Temptations as well as Library Journal Best E-Book romance of 2012 for The Devil DeVere series. Victoria also writes romantic historical fiction as Emery Lee. Look for her new Highland saga coming summer of 2017.
Contact info:
Email: [email protected] Website: www.victoriavane.com
Blog: www.embracingromance.com
Blog:https://wildandwickedcowboys.wordpres...
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/YVeXrf
Twitter: @authorvictoriav Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1vONQZh
Amazon: http://amzn.to/10QMKT5 Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1sccsM4
YOU TUBE : http://bit.ly/1yNtEMP
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
2016 Red Carpet Finalist for ROUGH RIDER
2016 Red Carpet Finalist for JEWEL OF THE EAST
2015 Red Carpet Finals for SLOW HAND
2014 RONE Award for Treacherous Tempatations
2014 Rone Nomination for The Sheik Retold also LASR Best Book 2013 Nominee
THE DEVIL DEVERE SERIES
Library Journal Best E-Book Romance 2012, LR Cafe Best Series Nominee 2012
A Wild Night's Bride
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
•IRC Reader's Choice historical romance nominee
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
The Virgin Huntress
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
The Devil You Know
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
• The Romance Reviews Best Historical Romance Nominee
• LR Café Best Historical Romance nominee 2012
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
The Devil's Match
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
• The Romance Reviews Top Pick
• LASR Reviews Book of the Month December 2012
• Swept Away by Romance Best Historical Romance of 2012
• LR Café Best Author Nominee 2012
• Swept Away by Romance Favorite Author 2012
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
A Devil's Touch
Swept Away by Romance Best Novella 2013 nominee
A Breach of Promise , December 2011 Ellora's Cave
• Night Owl Reviews “Top Pick”
• Reading Romances 5 flames and “Pen Award”
• TBR Pile 5stars/Book of the month winner September 2012
• LASR Erotic Reviews 5 STAR/Book of the Month Nominee
• The Romance Studio 5 Sweetheart Nominee
• TRS CAPA Nominee 2012
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
August 29, 2013
4.5 stars for this
LONG...
SLOW...
SEDUCTION...
Holy wow! Did this ever tick all of my boxes...It's like Vane took everything I love about my escapist dreams and put them into this story... I love the ultra gamma hero...the ones who are supremely confident in themselves...they need no affirmation. Most of the time, they're loners for the most part, but once they find that ONE woman, no one else will do. Add that to the romantic setting of endless desert and the helplessness of captivity and I was sold before I ever even started reading.
Now, this hero really is the top dog of chauvinists, but I expected no less from an all powerful sheik on the other side of the world...so leave your 21st century ideals locked up tight! Power rules here...women do not.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
MY SYNOPSIS
A bored, beautiful, rich woman determined to have fun, Diana has rarely felt true passion for anything.
Especially not sexual passion. She'd rather be a man than a woman most times as she is limited to what she can do. Her beauty is only a crutch, one that makes men see her as a woman rather than as an equal, as a wife or lover rather than as a friend.
In defiance of her her brother, she begins a month long trek into the desert in search of adventure with a guide and a small caravan. She knows of the danger but scoffs at convention and common sense. Little does she know, she's already being watched, and plans are already being made to change her life. Diana's destiny is no longer under her own control.
When her group is overtaken by a band of native men, Diana finally realizes her arrogance and nonchalance may have cost her dearly. The leader, Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan, is determined to have her.
Ahmed is his own law...he obeys no one. He is a fair ruler among his people...brutal and efficient, but fair. His near godlike status renders him answerable to none. What he wants, he has. His every whim is seen to, his every wish a reality. And he wants the blonde English beauty in his bed. Fortunately for Diana, he also takes great pride in wooing anyone or anything who doubts his authority...or his prowess...
Amid the vast and endless desert, Diana is stripped of the one thing that she holds dearly...her freedom. But what is freedom without passion? What is life without love or affection? Diana's situation begins to change her.
With the help of the oh-so-patient Sheik Ahmed, Diana finally, reluctantly, begins to discover the joys of being a woman. Whereas her desirability was once a crutch, she now sees the power it gives her. And she starts to see more to life than endless parties, endless quests for the next adventure, endless searching for the ever elusive happiness...
From the inside of a lonely tent in a camp of chauvinistic men, Diana begins to change.
And romance is no longer an unbelievable fairy tale.
But the fact remains that Diana is a prisoner. Her forced seduction forces her to be a woman in every sense, and she won't settle for less than her Sheik's heart...so now she has to make a choice...will she stay with a man who could never love her back? A man who never backs down, and will never give her his heart?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Victoria Vane nails it with this retelling of E.M. Hull's The Sheik And she only gets better and better with her storytelling. She has a way of immersing you in the time period, researching relentlessly...the setting, the clothing, the attention to minor details without excessive verbiage... it all comes together to plunge you into the desert, alone among hundreds of men, an unwilling captive to a man whose intentions are not innocent. And boy, was I titillated!
Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
LONG...
SLOW...
SEDUCTION...
"I told myself I was only too weary to fight him, but the truth was that his all-out sensual assault had made me a victim of my own senses - of my own suppressed nature. And now awakened, I was starving for more."
Holy wow! Did this ever tick all of my boxes...It's like Vane took everything I love about my escapist dreams and put them into this story... I love the ultra gamma hero...the ones who are supremely confident in themselves...they need no affirmation. Most of the time, they're loners for the most part, but once they find that ONE woman, no one else will do. Add that to the romantic setting of endless desert and the helplessness of captivity and I was sold before I ever even started reading.
Now, this hero really is the top dog of chauvinists, but I expected no less from an all powerful sheik on the other side of the world...so leave your 21st century ideals locked up tight! Power rules here...women do not.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
MY SYNOPSIS
A bored, beautiful, rich woman determined to have fun, Diana has rarely felt true passion for anything.
"Passion. I could not comprehend how it made such asses of otherwise fine fellows."
Especially not sexual passion. She'd rather be a man than a woman most times as she is limited to what she can do. Her beauty is only a crutch, one that makes men see her as a woman rather than as an equal, as a wife or lover rather than as a friend.
"My life is mine and I will deal with it exactly as I wish. I will do what I choose when and how I choose. I will never again obey any will but my own."
Aubrey's moth tightened and his gaze narrowed. "Then I hope to heaven that one day you will fall into the hands of a man who will make you obey."
In defiance of her her brother, she begins a month long trek into the desert in search of adventure with a guide and a small caravan. She knows of the danger but scoffs at convention and common sense. Little does she know, she's already being watched, and plans are already being made to change her life. Diana's destiny is no longer under her own control.
When her group is overtaken by a band of native men, Diana finally realizes her arrogance and nonchalance may have cost her dearly. The leader, Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan, is determined to have her.
"It was at once the handsomest and cruelest face I had ever seen."
Ahmed is his own law...he obeys no one. He is a fair ruler among his people...brutal and efficient, but fair. His near godlike status renders him answerable to none. What he wants, he has. His every whim is seen to, his every wish a reality. And he wants the blonde English beauty in his bed. Fortunately for Diana, he also takes great pride in wooing anyone or anything who doubts his authority...or his prowess...
"Shall I make you care, cherie? Shall I make it your deepest desire, your only desire, to please me? I can make any woman love me when I choose."
Amid the vast and endless desert, Diana is stripped of the one thing that she holds dearly...her freedom. But what is freedom without passion? What is life without love or affection? Diana's situation begins to change her.
With the help of the oh-so-patient Sheik Ahmed, Diana finally, reluctantly, begins to discover the joys of being a woman. Whereas her desirability was once a crutch, she now sees the power it gives her. And she starts to see more to life than endless parties, endless quests for the next adventure, endless searching for the ever elusive happiness...
From the inside of a lonely tent in a camp of chauvinistic men, Diana begins to change.
"I had lived my entire live indulging my sense with all things beautiful - art, music, food, wine, perfumes. I had never refrained from handling anything or feeling whatever I chose. Nothing had been out of bounds to me. My wealth allowed me these singular privileges, but I had never before indulge my receptors to anothers touch. I had long ago shunned the need for suck physical contact as a contemptuous feminine weakness, but he had forced my submission to it."
And romance is no longer an unbelievable fairy tale.
But the fact remains that Diana is a prisoner. Her forced seduction forces her to be a woman in every sense, and she won't settle for less than her Sheik's heart...so now she has to make a choice...will she stay with a man who could never love her back? A man who never backs down, and will never give her his heart?
"Why could I not also be loved? How had I failed that he would not love me? Other men had loved me, and I had cared nothing for them, and now suddenly his love was all I longed for in the world..."
"Careless indifference seemed only another facet of his cruelty."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Victoria Vane nails it with this retelling of E.M. Hull's The Sheik And she only gets better and better with her storytelling. She has a way of immersing you in the time period, researching relentlessly...the setting, the clothing, the attention to minor details without excessive verbiage... it all comes together to plunge you into the desert, alone among hundreds of men, an unwilling captive to a man whose intentions are not innocent. And boy, was I titillated!
Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 17, 2013
Swept Away By Romance's Group Review for The Sheik Retold by Victoria Vane.
Kristen: 3 Stars
Kathleen: 5 Stars
Crista: 5 Stars
What worked
Kristen: Because I disliked the original story plot, I was extremely grateful to Victoria Vane for reworking the derogatory elements of rape, racism, and animal cruelty that were so appalling to me. The author also softened the hero making him a more palatable character and gave the other characters in the story added dimension.
Kathleen: Bodice Rippers have always been one of my favorite types of romances to read, so I was very excited when I got my hands on The Sheik Retold . I love the whole theme of a sexy Sheik that captures a beautiful young stubborn heiress. I was hooked right from page one, it was very exciting and there was never a dull moment.
One thing that REALLY stood out for me, was the words that the author used throughout the whole book, I was totally mesmerized as I read. The dialogue and chemistry between the Sheik, Ahmed, and Diana was phenomenal.
The heat level throughout was very sensual and incredibly STEAMY. That always works for me.
Crista: This book was pretty amazing and there were MANY things that worked. I loved Diana’s character and the fact that she’s a strong woman who resists capture and also resists the feelings her captor awakens inside her. For some reason, I’ve never heard of this story that was originally penned by Edith Maude Hall, but in hindsight I’m glad I read Victoria Vane’s fresh spin on this story first. There was nothing that offended me in this book, and I’m afraid had I read the first book, I may have been a bit tainted coming into this book.
What didn’t work
Kristen: Try as I might, I still fundamentally disliked this story, even in the retelling. Also, I struggled with the heroine, Diana's complete character makeover. Her character became too strong-willed and calculating considering the circumstances she was in. I understand the author's reasoning for strengthening Diana's character; it pretty much removed the rape element of the story making it more a form of forced seduction. However, it still didn't fully work for me. And, frankly, I felt the heroine came across promiscuous and that bothered me considerably considering the situation.
Kathleen: There was not a thing that didn’t work for me. This book is a bodice ripper, so for some readers there might be some issues, but for me…the entire book was PERFECTION!
Crista: Nothing! I loved everything about this book. I loved the characters, the kidnapping plot, the setting, and THE SHEIK!!!
Best scene(s)
Kristen: One of my favorite scenes in this book is when the author allows Diana to be the one to hear the hero, Ahmed's true feelings and affection for her rather than his best friend, who was the one to hear it in the original story. That rocked!
I also loved the last 20% of the book. It's how the original story should have ended.
Kathleen: Ahmed purposely breaks a wild horse while Diana is watching to give her the message, loud and clear, that he will break her too.
Diana's ah-ha moment when she realizes that everything around her is exactly what she was looking for while spending her month long adventure in the desert.
When Diana is just whipped one time out of 20, and Ahmed steps up to take the remainder of her whipping. It was very emotional!
The first time Diana and Ahmed have sex. It had just the right amount of steam and had me squirming in my seat. All of the love scenes throughout were wonderfully written and therefor were some of the best scenes for me.
Crista: Every. Single. Sex. Scene. Wow!! This book is hot, hot, hot…and I loved every minute.
Favorite character(s)
Kristen: I really enjoyed Raoul’s character. He treated Diana with respect and compassion. Too bad he wasn't the hero.
Kathleen: I can't choose between Ahmed and Diana. They were both splendid characters.
Diana was brave, prideful, strong, stubborn, willful, independent and VERY passionate. Ahmed made me sighhhhhhhhhh, he was VERY passionate too, but he was also dominate, vigorous, silver-tongued, intense, patient and OH SO SEXY!! They both brought so much depth into this book, so I can't possibly pick just one.
Crista: Diana. I loved her wit, honesty, strength and courage.
Overall Thoughts
Kristen: To be honest, this has been a very difficult journey for me. In preparing to read this revised story of The Sheik, I felt I needed to read the original, and though the story intrigued me, I pretty much HATED it! Unfortunately, I couldn't fully shake my prejudice, and even though I enjoyed this version far more, it still didn't work for me like I hoped.
I love Victoria Vane. This woman can write!!! And while she did a commendable job with the retelling of this story, I prefer her original works. For me, they're far more appealing. ~ 3 Stars!
Here's the link to my review of the original story. https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Kathleen: This book was AMAZING! The words flowed so well and the story line was so good, that I was constantly thinking WOW, as I read from page to page. I loved all the characters throughout the book, even the villains were well done. The epilogue was FANTASTIC and answered all my questions. The book ended in the best possible way, and left me EXTREMELY satisfied. ~ 10 Stars, because 5 Stars is not enough!
Crista: The Sheik Retold was an amazing love story that takes place in a unique and compelling setting. I’ve never read a Sheik romance before and I wonder what I’ve been waiting for. If all Sheiks are like Ahmed Ben Hassan, then I WANT MORE!!
Although this love story begins under a less than ideal situation, I loved watching Ahmed fall in love for the first time and Diana mature and grow as a person. Watching two different people and cultures collide and learn from one another was absolutely amazing. I loved the ending and the epilogue and ended this book with a satisfied sigh.
Don’t miss this one! ~ 5 stars!!
Kristen: 3 Stars
Kathleen: 5 Stars
Crista: 5 Stars
What worked
Kristen: Because I disliked the original story plot, I was extremely grateful to Victoria Vane for reworking the derogatory elements of rape, racism, and animal cruelty that were so appalling to me. The author also softened the hero making him a more palatable character and gave the other characters in the story added dimension.
Kathleen: Bodice Rippers have always been one of my favorite types of romances to read, so I was very excited when I got my hands on The Sheik Retold . I love the whole theme of a sexy Sheik that captures a beautiful young stubborn heiress. I was hooked right from page one, it was very exciting and there was never a dull moment.
One thing that REALLY stood out for me, was the words that the author used throughout the whole book, I was totally mesmerized as I read. The dialogue and chemistry between the Sheik, Ahmed, and Diana was phenomenal.
The heat level throughout was very sensual and incredibly STEAMY. That always works for me.
Crista: This book was pretty amazing and there were MANY things that worked. I loved Diana’s character and the fact that she’s a strong woman who resists capture and also resists the feelings her captor awakens inside her. For some reason, I’ve never heard of this story that was originally penned by Edith Maude Hall, but in hindsight I’m glad I read Victoria Vane’s fresh spin on this story first. There was nothing that offended me in this book, and I’m afraid had I read the first book, I may have been a bit tainted coming into this book.
What didn’t work
Kristen: Try as I might, I still fundamentally disliked this story, even in the retelling. Also, I struggled with the heroine, Diana's complete character makeover. Her character became too strong-willed and calculating considering the circumstances she was in. I understand the author's reasoning for strengthening Diana's character; it pretty much removed the rape element of the story making it more a form of forced seduction. However, it still didn't fully work for me. And, frankly, I felt the heroine came across promiscuous and that bothered me considerably considering the situation.
Kathleen: There was not a thing that didn’t work for me. This book is a bodice ripper, so for some readers there might be some issues, but for me…the entire book was PERFECTION!
Crista: Nothing! I loved everything about this book. I loved the characters, the kidnapping plot, the setting, and THE SHEIK!!!
Best scene(s)
Kristen: One of my favorite scenes in this book is when the author allows Diana to be the one to hear the hero, Ahmed's true feelings and affection for her rather than his best friend, who was the one to hear it in the original story. That rocked!
I also loved the last 20% of the book. It's how the original story should have ended.
Kathleen: Ahmed purposely breaks a wild horse while Diana is watching to give her the message, loud and clear, that he will break her too.
Diana's ah-ha moment when she realizes that everything around her is exactly what she was looking for while spending her month long adventure in the desert.
When Diana is just whipped one time out of 20, and Ahmed steps up to take the remainder of her whipping. It was very emotional!
The first time Diana and Ahmed have sex. It had just the right amount of steam and had me squirming in my seat. All of the love scenes throughout were wonderfully written and therefor were some of the best scenes for me.
Crista: Every. Single. Sex. Scene. Wow!! This book is hot, hot, hot…and I loved every minute.
Favorite character(s)
Kristen: I really enjoyed Raoul’s character. He treated Diana with respect and compassion. Too bad he wasn't the hero.
Kathleen: I can't choose between Ahmed and Diana. They were both splendid characters.
Diana was brave, prideful, strong, stubborn, willful, independent and VERY passionate. Ahmed made me sighhhhhhhhhh, he was VERY passionate too, but he was also dominate, vigorous, silver-tongued, intense, patient and OH SO SEXY!! They both brought so much depth into this book, so I can't possibly pick just one.
Crista: Diana. I loved her wit, honesty, strength and courage.
Overall Thoughts
Kristen: To be honest, this has been a very difficult journey for me. In preparing to read this revised story of The Sheik, I felt I needed to read the original, and though the story intrigued me, I pretty much HATED it! Unfortunately, I couldn't fully shake my prejudice, and even though I enjoyed this version far more, it still didn't work for me like I hoped.
I love Victoria Vane. This woman can write!!! And while she did a commendable job with the retelling of this story, I prefer her original works. For me, they're far more appealing. ~ 3 Stars!
Here's the link to my review of the original story. https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Kathleen: This book was AMAZING! The words flowed so well and the story line was so good, that I was constantly thinking WOW, as I read from page to page. I loved all the characters throughout the book, even the villains were well done. The epilogue was FANTASTIC and answered all my questions. The book ended in the best possible way, and left me EXTREMELY satisfied. ~ 10 Stars, because 5 Stars is not enough!
Crista: The Sheik Retold was an amazing love story that takes place in a unique and compelling setting. I’ve never read a Sheik romance before and I wonder what I’ve been waiting for. If all Sheiks are like Ahmed Ben Hassan, then I WANT MORE!!
Although this love story begins under a less than ideal situation, I loved watching Ahmed fall in love for the first time and Diana mature and grow as a person. Watching two different people and cultures collide and learn from one another was absolutely amazing. I loved the ending and the epilogue and ended this book with a satisfied sigh.
Don’t miss this one! ~ 5 stars!!
September 20, 2019
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Pull up several seats, my friends, because I have a lot of thoughts on THE SHEIK RETOLD. This book first caught my attention during the summer of 2013. It's an erotic "retelling" of E.M. Hull's bodice-ripper precursor, THE SHEIK, which was initially published in 1919. Unlike many of the people reviewing this, I've actually read the original. It was written in 1919, so it doesn't have much in the way of sexual content, although there is a lot of sexual tension. And violence. And racism. And smoking. It's basically everything good and bad about 1919, while bursting at the seams with repressed sexuality. It desperately wishes it was born sixty years later, so it could be the bodice-ripper it so badly wants to be.
I think the Smart Bitches ladies hit the nail on the head with their review, but I'll tell you what I think, as well. THE SHEIK RETOLD peppers its pages with the sexual scenes that were not in the original. It's an erotic romance, and initially I was really excited, because I thought to myself, "Finally! This is going to be Rosemary Rogers levels of fucked up bodice-rippery! I can't wait!" The author also rewrote it to be in the first person (I believe the original was written in the third person), which makes it much more intimate and personal. Also a win.
The problem is that when the author was rewriting the book, she took out a lot of the things that made it so much fun. I'm not sorry at all to see the racist slurs removed, because, you know, racist slurs. But trying to take a book that would have been non-con and making it into a "no-no-yes-yes-yes!" style dub-con with the heroine deciding that she's going to take ownership of her abuse and make herself like it because feminism really isn't much better. Honestly, keeping the scenes as rape would have been better than these weird, self-hating mental gymnastics the heroine puts herself through.It also messes with his character, because the sheik is a cruel and brutal man, so removing these scenes, as well as the violence, really lessons the impact of a story that, in the original, uses the allegory of horse-breaking and horse-killing to allude to his method's of "taming" a woman.
The beginning of this book was great, but after the sex scenes, things kind of fell apart for me. What a disappointment. In some ways, this is more readable than the original and it's certainly less offensive, but I'm really not certain that the author ended up making this a better story. I'm not sure I'd read anything else by this author in the near future. This smacks of 90s bodice-ripper hypocrisy (and you KNOW how I feel about the wishy-washy sex scenes of 90s bodice-rippers). That said, I'm totally in favor of authors taking and rewriting the classics to fill them with the smut that we all deserve. I know the purists may disagree, but I am a trash can and will never say no to well-written smut.
2.5 stars
August 30, 2013
4.5 Blazing Stars! --- Great news!!! An early release has this live on Amazon!
Victoria Vane has produced a winner in her retelling of E.M. Hull’s 1919 production of The Sheik. She has taken away the rape, the animal cruelty and condensed the retelling into an engaging, sensual, sultry read. She’s also opened that bedroom door wide and boy, is this a sizzler!
Diana Mayo is young, incredibly beautiful, wealthy and head strong. She’s smart and has the skills of a man when it comes to riding and shooting due to being raised as a boy by her brother. She and her brother are now holidaying together in Biskra, an oasis town in Northern Algeria and the year is 1920.
Diana has finally come of age and is ecstatic to gain her independence and chart her own course. One of her first decisions is to take a trip into this vast, beautiful desert. Against everyone’s advice, she embarks on a month long trek through the Sahara. But after only a few days travel, her small caravan is attacked and she’s kidnapped by the powerful, utterly gorgeous, Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan. She soon realizes this is the man she had briefly encountered in Biskra the night before her departure. And from that point on I was hooked and didn’t want to put this book down.
Ahmed is arrogant, possessive, domineering, and powerful. He’s also startlingly handsome, has a magnificent physique and is very intelligent. He takes what he wants, and he wants Diana. But Diana is no meek flower and with Ahmed’s seductive skills arousing a huge dose of lust and desire, she makes a decision that is a perfect retelling.
Ahmed has never met a woman like Diana. He's all alpha male, dark and mysterious and becomes quickly bored with women who fall for him. What began as lust, soon turns into much more as Ahmed and Diana spend time together in more ways than beneath the sheets.
There’s much more to this story than just a passing fancy for a beautiful woman. Ahmed has a deeply troubled past and while lust is a driving factor, he also has another agenda to fill.
Both suffer from stubborn pride and I wondered if they could find happiness together. The road might have been bumpy and filled with boulders, but it was such a pleasure watching these two get there. In his quest to conquer Diana, Ahmed easily falls prey to her charms and becomes the conquered. And little did Diana know when she embarked how much her life would change within the boundaries of a place her heart had always longed for.
I have read and enjoyed my fair share of Bodice Rippers in the past and still have my favorites. Very few included a Sheik as the hero and I was intrigued going in. While I haven’t read Ms. Hull’s version, I was aware of many of the elements as well as the comments made concerning her original production. It seems her book was one that people either loved or hated. My biggest fear was that Diana, who is a confident, independent woman, would suddenly turn into a whiny, weak heroine willing to do almost anything to please her lover. I was thrilled to discover Victoria Vane’s remake, while continuing to respect Ms. Hull’s original, gave a heroine who stayed true to herself. She’s taken out the undesirable and enhanced and added just the right touch to turn this into a very pleasurable and sexy read.
There’s seduction, angst, intrigue, as well as hidden secrets. It’s action packed in places and sultry, sizzling hot in others. I found myself totally engaged as I ventured into a near perfect afternoon and evening of escapism! The icing on the cake is the prologue giving a look into the future and
Very well done, Victoria!
Whether you fit into the catagory of those who disliked the original or those that loved it, you'll not want to miss this remake. I highly recommend to everyone who enjoys a passionate, romantic read!
Book Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ky4_cE...
Arc courtesy of Victoria Vane
Victoria Vane has produced a winner in her retelling of E.M. Hull’s 1919 production of The Sheik. She has taken away the rape, the animal cruelty and condensed the retelling into an engaging, sensual, sultry read. She’s also opened that bedroom door wide and boy, is this a sizzler!
Diana Mayo is young, incredibly beautiful, wealthy and head strong. She’s smart and has the skills of a man when it comes to riding and shooting due to being raised as a boy by her brother. She and her brother are now holidaying together in Biskra, an oasis town in Northern Algeria and the year is 1920.
Diana has finally come of age and is ecstatic to gain her independence and chart her own course. One of her first decisions is to take a trip into this vast, beautiful desert. Against everyone’s advice, she embarks on a month long trek through the Sahara. But after only a few days travel, her small caravan is attacked and she’s kidnapped by the powerful, utterly gorgeous, Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan. She soon realizes this is the man she had briefly encountered in Biskra the night before her departure. And from that point on I was hooked and didn’t want to put this book down.
Ahmed is arrogant, possessive, domineering, and powerful. He’s also startlingly handsome, has a magnificent physique and is very intelligent. He takes what he wants, and he wants Diana. But Diana is no meek flower and with Ahmed’s seductive skills arousing a huge dose of lust and desire, she makes a decision that is a perfect retelling.
Ahmed has never met a woman like Diana. He's all alpha male, dark and mysterious and becomes quickly bored with women who fall for him. What began as lust, soon turns into much more as Ahmed and Diana spend time together in more ways than beneath the sheets.
There’s much more to this story than just a passing fancy for a beautiful woman. Ahmed has a deeply troubled past and while lust is a driving factor, he also has another agenda to fill.
Both suffer from stubborn pride and I wondered if they could find happiness together. The road might have been bumpy and filled with boulders, but it was such a pleasure watching these two get there. In his quest to conquer Diana, Ahmed easily falls prey to her charms and becomes the conquered. And little did Diana know when she embarked how much her life would change within the boundaries of a place her heart had always longed for.
I have read and enjoyed my fair share of Bodice Rippers in the past and still have my favorites. Very few included a Sheik as the hero and I was intrigued going in. While I haven’t read Ms. Hull’s version, I was aware of many of the elements as well as the comments made concerning her original production. It seems her book was one that people either loved or hated. My biggest fear was that Diana, who is a confident, independent woman, would suddenly turn into a whiny, weak heroine willing to do almost anything to please her lover. I was thrilled to discover Victoria Vane’s remake, while continuing to respect Ms. Hull’s original, gave a heroine who stayed true to herself. She’s taken out the undesirable and enhanced and added just the right touch to turn this into a very pleasurable and sexy read.
There’s seduction, angst, intrigue, as well as hidden secrets. It’s action packed in places and sultry, sizzling hot in others. I found myself totally engaged as I ventured into a near perfect afternoon and evening of escapism! The icing on the cake is the prologue giving a look into the future and
Very well done, Victoria!
Whether you fit into the catagory of those who disliked the original or those that loved it, you'll not want to miss this remake. I highly recommend to everyone who enjoys a passionate, romantic read!
Book Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ky4_cE...
Arc courtesy of Victoria Vane
March 25, 2015
I think I am at a disadvantage here because I don't really know the original story, I haven't watched the movie and basically, I went blind into this book, so I'm going to rate it as if it isn't a re-telling, just an ordinary romance.
1. The writing
Really, really wonderful. This is my first book by this author, but from this I know I'm definitely reading more. The descriptions were lovely, the dialogue great, and I could really feel the historical bit in here, with the way they talked (you would think a lot of authors would research this but actually lots of historicals feel very modern, just set in a different time, or they are very American, even though it is set in Britain, and so on...), anyway I was pleasantly surprised :))
2. The story
This is a bodice ripper, the original had rape but the author changed it for this one and I am grateful because I don't know if I would've liked it that way.
In short the story is: uber-sexy sheik kidnaps a woman, holds her captive in his tent in the desert, they have hot sex, fall in love and the rest is to be discovered by you :D
3. The characters
This is the part of the book that didn't work for me.
The sheik - he is the mysterious but powerful kidnapper who thinks of the woman as HIS, and is free to do with her however he wishes. That isn't such a shocker, I expected it in this kind of story.
BUT! I never grew to like him. I don't know why, he was actually pretty good with everything when it comes to her, but I didn't feel that something to make me like him and sadly, I was indifferent to his character to the end :(
Diana - she is very strong-willed, I like that, but her character wasn't really consistent here. She changes completely in a matter of 3 or so days, which doesn't make sense to me for a woman scared for her life and of being raped by some unknown savage in the desert, to
I just couldn't come to terms with that change at all :(
So, this is well written, the story is good too, but because the characters didn't really work for me, I am putting my rating in the middle. 3 stars for The Sheik Retold.
Read
January 18, 2015My Author's Note for THE SHEIK RETOLD:
When first published in 1919, E.M. Hulls' The Sheik was an overnight bestseller with more than fifty printings the first two years of release. The book was also made into a silent film that catapulted its leading man, Rudolph Valentino, to superstardom. Given its huge success in its time, I have no doubt many readers will wonder at my motive in re-writing this romance classic.
As a reader, I have always found the "forced seduction"/rape-to-love trope appalling, and have never had such mixed feeling about a book as I did after reading The Sheik. It had so much to offer with its strong characters and beautiful descriptive prose, but it fell sadly short for me in so many other ways. I found the narrative too repetitive and the pace plodding. There was too much navel-gazing on the heroine's part, and far too little actual interaction between the hero and heroine for a romance. In sum, I loved and loathed it in equal measure.
Nevertheless, this story captured my imagination and even though I had a number of other writing projects in progress, The Sheik held me hostage, refusing to let me go. Once I began fantasizing about alternate scenarios, dialogue, and plot twists, I knew the story was calling to me. I had no choice but to re-tell it the way I envisioned it.
While I have taken a number of liberties in my re-telling, the main plot, characters, and descriptive passages are largely unchanged. I kept everything I loved and changed what I loathed. Although my version is not completely devoid of violence (to omit all of it would only have watered down Ahmed's powerful alpha character), I have taken out the rape and animal abuse, and have thrown the bedroom door wide open.
Most importantly, however is my portrayal of Diana. Even though she falls deeply in love with her captor, my version of the character stays true to her strong and self-willed nature right to the end.
While I believe The Sheik Retold will compare favorably to E.M. Hull's The Sheik, readers of this book will be the ultimate judge.
When first published in 1919, E.M. Hulls' The Sheik was an overnight bestseller with more than fifty printings the first two years of release. The book was also made into a silent film that catapulted its leading man, Rudolph Valentino, to superstardom. Given its huge success in its time, I have no doubt many readers will wonder at my motive in re-writing this romance classic.
As a reader, I have always found the "forced seduction"/rape-to-love trope appalling, and have never had such mixed feeling about a book as I did after reading The Sheik. It had so much to offer with its strong characters and beautiful descriptive prose, but it fell sadly short for me in so many other ways. I found the narrative too repetitive and the pace plodding. There was too much navel-gazing on the heroine's part, and far too little actual interaction between the hero and heroine for a romance. In sum, I loved and loathed it in equal measure.
Nevertheless, this story captured my imagination and even though I had a number of other writing projects in progress, The Sheik held me hostage, refusing to let me go. Once I began fantasizing about alternate scenarios, dialogue, and plot twists, I knew the story was calling to me. I had no choice but to re-tell it the way I envisioned it.
While I have taken a number of liberties in my re-telling, the main plot, characters, and descriptive passages are largely unchanged. I kept everything I loved and changed what I loathed. Although my version is not completely devoid of violence (to omit all of it would only have watered down Ahmed's powerful alpha character), I have taken out the rape and animal abuse, and have thrown the bedroom door wide open.
Most importantly, however is my portrayal of Diana. Even though she falls deeply in love with her captor, my version of the character stays true to her strong and self-willed nature right to the end.
While I believe The Sheik Retold will compare favorably to E.M. Hull's The Sheik, readers of this book will be the ultimate judge.
August 29, 2013
This ARC was given to me by the author, in exchange for an honest review. "The Sheik Retold" is due to be released on Sept. 13/13.
This story was first published in the year 1919, and written by E.M. Hull. Even though Victoria Vane fell in love with this story, there were a few parts that she didn't much care for. She has decided to retell the story of The Sheik and his captive in her own words, and of course, leave out the scenes that were somewhat disturbing to her. These scenes has included rape and cruelty to animals. I have read some of Victoria's work in the past, and she has never failed to capture my attention with her vivid and descriptive words that she pours out onto paper. She is able to paint a clear picture of what it would be like to live back in the time period that she is writing about. Her attention to details regarding history, is extremely accurate and prescise; and it is for that reason that I label her as one of my top favorite historical romance authors. Even better is that she doesn't just take me back in time; but she includes steamy erotic scenes in her stories that always has me fanning my face and squirming in my chair! I enjoy a good romance book; but it is always made better in my eyes when there is hot, steamy sex included in the book that I'm reading.
This story begins with an English woman; Diane who has talked her brother into letting her travel alone over the desert. He is not fond of the idea; but Diane is very stubborn, headstrong, and when she wants something she demands that she gets it. Once she begins her travelling, she becomes captured by a man named, Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan. The Sheik is not only cold and calculating; but Diane secretly finds him extremely attractive. Her pride is a mile wide though, and she fights her attraction tooth and nail. Diane learns soon enough that no matter how hard she fights, she will have to submit herself to this brutal man who has her under his thumb. She is not the only one that is experiencing an extreme attraction, her Sheik had seen Diane from afar in the past and had become infactuated with her immediately. Being a man that aquires whatever he wants, he set out to catch this woman who intrigued every part of his being. So the erotic dance begins between these two. They are both very stubborn and put up a good fight not to fall to hard for one another, or become vulnerable in any way. Diane even sets out trying to escape, when she is successful there are disastrous repercussions from it. Will these two give in to the fight, and what does the future hold for this couple? There is also some mystery surrounding The Sheik, who is he truly and will that affect Diane in any way?
This book is loaded with rich history, mystery, and romance. It held my attention, and gave me a crystal clear picture in my head as to what being in the desert would be like. My only complaint is my frustration for Diane's stubborness! There were times where I felt like slapping her and telling her to be quiet and go along with what she was supposed to do. That wouldn't be Diane though, as she is not a character to take anything lying down..uh...well...The Sheik she took fine lying down!!LOL; but that was about it. I always prefer a more docile heroine; but for the people who love a heroine who puts up a good fight and is strong to her core, then you will love Diane!
This is a must read for historical romance lovers. Read this story and become whisked away into a land faraway, and become absorbed into a unique love story that you won't soon forget!
Here is a Book Trailer on The Sheik Retold: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ky4_cE...
This story was first published in the year 1919, and written by E.M. Hull. Even though Victoria Vane fell in love with this story, there were a few parts that she didn't much care for. She has decided to retell the story of The Sheik and his captive in her own words, and of course, leave out the scenes that were somewhat disturbing to her. These scenes has included rape and cruelty to animals. I have read some of Victoria's work in the past, and she has never failed to capture my attention with her vivid and descriptive words that she pours out onto paper. She is able to paint a clear picture of what it would be like to live back in the time period that she is writing about. Her attention to details regarding history, is extremely accurate and prescise; and it is for that reason that I label her as one of my top favorite historical romance authors. Even better is that she doesn't just take me back in time; but she includes steamy erotic scenes in her stories that always has me fanning my face and squirming in my chair! I enjoy a good romance book; but it is always made better in my eyes when there is hot, steamy sex included in the book that I'm reading.
This story begins with an English woman; Diane who has talked her brother into letting her travel alone over the desert. He is not fond of the idea; but Diane is very stubborn, headstrong, and when she wants something she demands that she gets it. Once she begins her travelling, she becomes captured by a man named, Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan. The Sheik is not only cold and calculating; but Diane secretly finds him extremely attractive. Her pride is a mile wide though, and she fights her attraction tooth and nail. Diane learns soon enough that no matter how hard she fights, she will have to submit herself to this brutal man who has her under his thumb. She is not the only one that is experiencing an extreme attraction, her Sheik had seen Diane from afar in the past and had become infactuated with her immediately. Being a man that aquires whatever he wants, he set out to catch this woman who intrigued every part of his being. So the erotic dance begins between these two. They are both very stubborn and put up a good fight not to fall to hard for one another, or become vulnerable in any way. Diane even sets out trying to escape, when she is successful there are disastrous repercussions from it. Will these two give in to the fight, and what does the future hold for this couple? There is also some mystery surrounding The Sheik, who is he truly and will that affect Diane in any way?
This book is loaded with rich history, mystery, and romance. It held my attention, and gave me a crystal clear picture in my head as to what being in the desert would be like. My only complaint is my frustration for Diane's stubborness! There were times where I felt like slapping her and telling her to be quiet and go along with what she was supposed to do. That wouldn't be Diane though, as she is not a character to take anything lying down..uh...well...The Sheik she took fine lying down!!LOL; but that was about it. I always prefer a more docile heroine; but for the people who love a heroine who puts up a good fight and is strong to her core, then you will love Diane!
This is a must read for historical romance lovers. Read this story and become whisked away into a land faraway, and become absorbed into a unique love story that you won't soon forget!
Here is a Book Trailer on The Sheik Retold: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ky4_cE...
January 24, 2018
4.8 Stars - A dramatic grand and unforgettable love story in good old romance spirit
Finally I got the long-awaited novel about the love story with the sheik in my hand. Yum!
~ The Sheik Retold is probably not a romance for everyone but I loved it. If you read it, I am sure that you will never forget it. ~
This novel by Victoria Vane is a new retelling of The Sheik by Edith Maude Hull from the 1920's and it shows. Although this certainly is written in a more modern way is the feeling of an old-time left. I have not read the original book, and will not do it, because I heard that there are some in the (at that time accepted) scenes that I certainly would not feel completely comfortable with.
Throughout the story, which is actually a pretty simple traditional romance, there is a wonderful sensuality and the tone of the text is very beautiful. Here are also a lot of difficult and somewhat pompous words that fit so well in a rewritten almost 100 years old steaming love-story.
The heroine, Diana Mayo, is a rich woman of fine English descent. She is in our present standards spoiled, self-confident, pretty egotistical but also urbane. She is also rare enough (early 1900's) brought up educated like a man to pass adventurous trips around the world with her older half-brother.
Despite all Diana's experience doesn't she believe at all that any kind of sexual attraction or even love will ever be a "thing" for her. Diana loves beautiful things, dazzling scenery, impressive animals and architecture, etc., but men cares she less about.
I must say that at first I was a little hesitant about Diana's chilly manner. As the pages flew away, I started to really like and admire this tough and brave woman. I would not dare to go out in the rather dangerous desert with only horses, camels and hired a local guide and his men. Ms Hill the first author of 1920's novel, didn't fall on the grip to make the heroine a damsel in distress and it is so wonderful to experience that.
I see Diana in front of me; this blonde, young, very tough lady with her hair in the stylish short curly 20's hairstyles, fine riding clothes and a safari helmet. A woman who thought she could handle everything and not fearing anything. For who would dare to touch or molest an English fine lady with contacts in the highest circles in a French colony (French Algeria) in the year 1920 during the interwar period? No, that was unthinkable. The savages of the desert would not dare.
But so wrong Diana had, there was a man who didn't fear anything. A man who was both god and king of his own kingdom - Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan. He longed for and wanted this beautiful unruly woman. If this divine beautiful and very strong man, the Sheik, wanted something he just brought (or bought) what he wanted and made it his own. It (she) was then his property and was expected to obey and admire without ever questioning.
From here followed a clash of cultures with crackling sparks that flew wide, two tough wills, pounding hearts, harsh words, sometimes a bit heavy-handed but also tender. There was uncertainty and fear, and perhaps most importantly in a romance, was here in the middle of this fight for power, a hot steamy lust, an increased need for confirmation and a rapidly growing magnificent attraction.
Yes, it was as you probably already guessed; a breathtaking journey. After a short time "melted" our heroine and she trembled with pleasure before this so wonderful, mysterious alpha sheik - ...and so did I!
For me personally, is The Sheik Retold an unforgettable story with many surprises. I loved the format, the style, the slightly old-fashioned, all the unexpected events and these two great main characters. At times it was cruel, very dramatic (sometimes next to melodramatic...) and slightly sentimental. Here are also a few scenes that shook me a little. Now and then was maybe Diana's inner dialogue and repetition of what just happened, a little long-winded... but each scene between her and the Sheik got me to read with eager anticipation.
I was from time to time both breathless and speechless. ...And I just smiled, giggled and enjoyed a lot. ~ In my opinion, so well worth reading.
Superb well written and told. Thanks, Victoria Vane - you did a great work. ~ This lovely novel may be on my shelf with other old classics though it is a newly edited and written retelling. I am sure I will read it again in the future.
All we girls and ladies who love - an old dramatic and epic costume movie, an evening with crisp and a great historical TV drama from BBC, a few hours with a good classic novel (like the dramatic misses Brontë's epic stories) and always are enjoying a romantic, steamy (quite cheesy) romance with a powerful alpha hero - we cannot help but cheer a little. Yay, this was a good one!
I LIKE - a steamy old sheik romance in a new form - exceedingly fine!
~~~~~~~~~
I love the old cover...
A retelling of the 1920's The Sheik by the British writer Edith Maude Hull (1880-1947).
...and the blockbuster movie with the star Rudolph Valentino from 1921, http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0012675/ and to watch: https://archive.org/details/TheSheik
Finally I got the long-awaited novel about the love story with the sheik in my hand. Yum!
~ The Sheik Retold is probably not a romance for everyone but I loved it. If you read it, I am sure that you will never forget it. ~
This novel by Victoria Vane is a new retelling of The Sheik by Edith Maude Hull from the 1920's and it shows. Although this certainly is written in a more modern way is the feeling of an old-time left. I have not read the original book, and will not do it, because I heard that there are some in the (at that time accepted) scenes that I certainly would not feel completely comfortable with.
Throughout the story, which is actually a pretty simple traditional romance, there is a wonderful sensuality and the tone of the text is very beautiful. Here are also a lot of difficult and somewhat pompous words that fit so well in a rewritten almost 100 years old steaming love-story.
‘Our eyes met. Even in the darkness, his face was arrestingly handsome. His eyes were black and penetrating, holding mine with an expression of disdain, before his mouth twisted into a snear.’
The heroine, Diana Mayo, is a rich woman of fine English descent. She is in our present standards spoiled, self-confident, pretty egotistical but also urbane. She is also rare enough (early 1900's) brought up educated like a man to pass adventurous trips around the world with her older half-brother.
Despite all Diana's experience doesn't she believe at all that any kind of sexual attraction or even love will ever be a "thing" for her. Diana loves beautiful things, dazzling scenery, impressive animals and architecture, etc., but men cares she less about.
I must say that at first I was a little hesitant about Diana's chilly manner. As the pages flew away, I started to really like and admire this tough and brave woman. I would not dare to go out in the rather dangerous desert with only horses, camels and hired a local guide and his men. Ms Hill the first author of 1920's novel, didn't fall on the grip to make the heroine a damsel in distress and it is so wonderful to experience that.
I see Diana in front of me; this blonde, young, very tough lady with her hair in the stylish short curly 20's hairstyles, fine riding clothes and a safari helmet. A woman who thought she could handle everything and not fearing anything. For who would dare to touch or molest an English fine lady with contacts in the highest circles in a French colony (French Algeria) in the year 1920 during the interwar period? No, that was unthinkable. The savages of the desert would not dare.
‘This was the desert, my lifelong dream! It was the expedition I had longed for and planned for years. I could not and would not give it up. How could anything in the desert hurt me when it had been calling to me always?’
But so wrong Diana had, there was a man who didn't fear anything. A man who was both god and king of his own kingdom - Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan. He longed for and wanted this beautiful unruly woman. If this divine beautiful and very strong man, the Sheik, wanted something he just brought (or bought) what he wanted and made it his own. It (she) was then his property and was expected to obey and admire without ever questioning.
From here followed a clash of cultures with crackling sparks that flew wide, two tough wills, pounding hearts, harsh words, sometimes a bit heavy-handed but also tender. There was uncertainty and fear, and perhaps most importantly in a romance, was here in the middle of this fight for power, a hot steamy lust, an increased need for confirmation and a rapidly growing magnificent attraction.
Yes, it was as you probably already guessed; a breathtaking journey. After a short time "melted" our heroine and she trembled with pleasure before this so wonderful, mysterious alpha sheik - ...and so did I!
‘I had tried to hold back my the knowledge of mylove, knowing it would only bring about the disaster I dreaded.
“If you loved me, you would bore me, and I should have to let you go.”
He had been honest. He had never pretended to love. He had seen me, had desired me, and had taken what he wanted.’
For me personally, is The Sheik Retold an unforgettable story with many surprises. I loved the format, the style, the slightly old-fashioned, all the unexpected events and these two great main characters. At times it was cruel, very dramatic (sometimes next to melodramatic...) and slightly sentimental. Here are also a few scenes that shook me a little. Now and then was maybe Diana's inner dialogue and repetition of what just happened, a little long-winded... but each scene between her and the Sheik got me to read with eager anticipation.
I was from time to time both breathless and speechless. ...And I just smiled, giggled and enjoyed a lot. ~ In my opinion, so well worth reading.
Superb well written and told. Thanks, Victoria Vane - you did a great work. ~ This lovely novel may be on my shelf with other old classics though it is a newly edited and written retelling. I am sure I will read it again in the future.
All we girls and ladies who love - an old dramatic and epic costume movie, an evening with crisp and a great historical TV drama from BBC, a few hours with a good classic novel (like the dramatic misses Brontë's epic stories) and always are enjoying a romantic, steamy (quite cheesy) romance with a powerful alpha hero - we cannot help but cheer a little. Yay, this was a good one!
I LIKE - a steamy old sheik romance in a new form - exceedingly fine!
~~~~~~~~~
I love the old cover...A retelling of the 1920's The Sheik by the British writer Edith Maude Hull (1880-1947).
...and the blockbuster movie with the star Rudolph Valentino from 1921, http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0012675/ and to watch: https://archive.org/details/TheSheik
August 13, 2016
ARC provided by the author, Victoria Vane, in exchange for an honest review
I can honestly say that The Sheik Retold was a first for me on a few different levels:
1)This was my first book about a sheik. In case you are wondering what a sheik is, Google's definition says "an Arab leader, in particular the chief or head of an Arab tribe, family, or village."
2)This was also my first historical romance novel.
I am so glad that I decided to take a chance on this book, despite the minor hesitations I had with the genres, because I absolutely loved it!
What It's About
Diana Mayo is a rich, independent, privileged, heiress who loves travel and adventure. Rather than get married and start a family, which is what society expects of her, Diana spends all her time seeing the world. In fact, Diana has ZERO interest in men, sex, and relationships.
"I have never enjoyed kissing in my entire life, nor have I any desire to try it again. It is one of the things I do not understand."
*~*~*~*~*
"The very notion of binding myself to the will and pleasure of a man, one who had the unquestionable right to demand obedience and the strength to enforce it, revolted me."
Of all the many places that she has traveled, the desert holds a special place in her heart so she plans an extended trip across the Sahara desert. The trip ends abruptly, however, when Diana is kidnapped by the infamous Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan.
"I wanted you from the moment I saw you, my golden one... And now," the backs of his long brown fingers brushed my hair, "you are mine."
The Sheik is a man who is used to getting his way and not having others question his commands. To those that are loyal to him, he is kind, but to those who betray him, he can be pretty brutal. All in all, I would say he is a fair ruler to his people.
When it comes to his captive Diana, he would prefer that she willingly submits to him rather than him having to use force.
"I could have you now, you know. In this very moment, I could tear your clothes, throw you down on that bed, and take you any way and as many times as I wish." He paused, smiling at the flare of fear in my eyes. "Fortunately for you, that is not my wish... at present."
*~*~*~*~*
"Shall I make you care, cherie? Shall I make it your deepest desire, your only desire, to please me? I can make any woman love me when I choose."
During her time with the Sheik, Diana learns a lot about herself. She realizes that she doesn't always have to be in control and she sees just how beautiful life can be when it is full of passion and love. But will her love be enough? Despite her feelings for the Sheik, she is still his prisoner. Can she live her life without freedom and choice? Can she also accept the fact that the feeling of love might be one sided? The Sheik doesn't believe he is capable of love or giving his heart to another person. Diana will have to make a choice between trying to escape or fighting for the life she never thought she wanted.
My Thoughts
While I have never read the original book, The Sheik by E.M. Hull, I LOVED this rendition! Overall, I would recommend this fabulous book to those looking for a novel about kidnapping, love, loyalty, passion, and adventure in the desert! 4.5 STARS!
I can honestly say that The Sheik Retold was a first for me on a few different levels:
1)This was my first book about a sheik. In case you are wondering what a sheik is, Google's definition says "an Arab leader, in particular the chief or head of an Arab tribe, family, or village."
2)This was also my first historical romance novel.
I am so glad that I decided to take a chance on this book, despite the minor hesitations I had with the genres, because I absolutely loved it!
What It's About
Diana Mayo is a rich, independent, privileged, heiress who loves travel and adventure. Rather than get married and start a family, which is what society expects of her, Diana spends all her time seeing the world. In fact, Diana has ZERO interest in men, sex, and relationships.
"I have never enjoyed kissing in my entire life, nor have I any desire to try it again. It is one of the things I do not understand."
*~*~*~*~*
"The very notion of binding myself to the will and pleasure of a man, one who had the unquestionable right to demand obedience and the strength to enforce it, revolted me."
Of all the many places that she has traveled, the desert holds a special place in her heart so she plans an extended trip across the Sahara desert. The trip ends abruptly, however, when Diana is kidnapped by the infamous Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan.
"I wanted you from the moment I saw you, my golden one... And now," the backs of his long brown fingers brushed my hair, "you are mine."
The Sheik is a man who is used to getting his way and not having others question his commands. To those that are loyal to him, he is kind, but to those who betray him, he can be pretty brutal. All in all, I would say he is a fair ruler to his people.
When it comes to his captive Diana, he would prefer that she willingly submits to him rather than him having to use force.
"I could have you now, you know. In this very moment, I could tear your clothes, throw you down on that bed, and take you any way and as many times as I wish." He paused, smiling at the flare of fear in my eyes. "Fortunately for you, that is not my wish... at present."
*~*~*~*~*
"Shall I make you care, cherie? Shall I make it your deepest desire, your only desire, to please me? I can make any woman love me when I choose."
During her time with the Sheik, Diana learns a lot about herself. She realizes that she doesn't always have to be in control and she sees just how beautiful life can be when it is full of passion and love. But will her love be enough? Despite her feelings for the Sheik, she is still his prisoner. Can she live her life without freedom and choice? Can she also accept the fact that the feeling of love might be one sided? The Sheik doesn't believe he is capable of love or giving his heart to another person. Diana will have to make a choice between trying to escape or fighting for the life she never thought she wanted.
My Thoughts
While I have never read the original book, The Sheik by E.M. Hull, I LOVED this rendition! Overall, I would recommend this fabulous book to those looking for a novel about kidnapping, love, loyalty, passion, and adventure in the desert! 4.5 STARS!
September 30, 2013
4.5 stars!!
The Sheik Retold is a retelling of EM Hull's The Sheik, one of the most widely read novels in the 1920s. I haven't read the original, so I cannot and will not make comparisons in my review.
The Story
Diana Mayo is a young heiress. Beautiful, rich, stubborn, independent, and I have to say, she came off as selfish to me at first. She wanted to trek through the Algerian dessert before joining her brother in America. Her plans goes awry when she got kidnapped by Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan. Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan is powerful, mysterious, gorgeous and domineering, and he wants Diana. He claims that Diana is his.
There's a bit of intrigue behind the whole kidnapping thing that for me was never really fleshed out. We only know about the plot because one of the characters told us. Nevertheless, the focus of this book wasn't the kidnapping itself but Diana and Sheik Ahmed's attraction, passion and Diana's eventual capitulation to Ben Hassan's seduction.
This isn't your typically dark, kidnapping story though. Although, Ben Hassan was domineering and very proud, he wasn't effed up, dark or unstable. He had a temper but he's basically a good guy, in my opinion. He cared for his people and his friends but most of all, he cared about Diana. He may not know how to show it properly but he did care and has grown to really love her.
Now Diana was an entirely different matter altogether. At first, I wasn't crazy about her. She was spoiled and selfish but halfway through, I've actually grown to like her spunky attitude. She did some very stupid things which resulted in tragedy but after that, she really did redeem herself.
Overall, thoughts...
I enjoyed this book very much. Victoria Vane isn't a familiar author to me, but I'll definitely be adding her other works to my TBR list. There were part which I felt was rushed and wasn't properly fleshed out, especially Aubry's (Diana's brother) involvement in Diana's "kidnapping" plot. That part was abruptly resolved with Aubry dying and that was it. But other than that, very sensual, very hot, very enjoyable read indeed.
A copy of this book was given to Ever After Romance Blog in exchange for an honest review.
The Sheik Retold is a retelling of EM Hull's The Sheik, one of the most widely read novels in the 1920s. I haven't read the original, so I cannot and will not make comparisons in my review.
The Story
Diana Mayo is a young heiress. Beautiful, rich, stubborn, independent, and I have to say, she came off as selfish to me at first. She wanted to trek through the Algerian dessert before joining her brother in America. Her plans goes awry when she got kidnapped by Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan. Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan is powerful, mysterious, gorgeous and domineering, and he wants Diana. He claims that Diana is his.
There's a bit of intrigue behind the whole kidnapping thing that for me was never really fleshed out. We only know about the plot because one of the characters told us. Nevertheless, the focus of this book wasn't the kidnapping itself but Diana and Sheik Ahmed's attraction, passion and Diana's eventual capitulation to Ben Hassan's seduction.
This isn't your typically dark, kidnapping story though. Although, Ben Hassan was domineering and very proud, he wasn't effed up, dark or unstable. He had a temper but he's basically a good guy, in my opinion. He cared for his people and his friends but most of all, he cared about Diana. He may not know how to show it properly but he did care and has grown to really love her.
Now Diana was an entirely different matter altogether. At first, I wasn't crazy about her. She was spoiled and selfish but halfway through, I've actually grown to like her spunky attitude. She did some very stupid things which resulted in tragedy but after that, she really did redeem herself.
Overall, thoughts...
I enjoyed this book very much. Victoria Vane isn't a familiar author to me, but I'll definitely be adding her other works to my TBR list. There were part which I felt was rushed and wasn't properly fleshed out, especially Aubry's (Diana's brother) involvement in Diana's "kidnapping" plot. That part was abruptly resolved with Aubry dying and that was it. But other than that, very sensual, very hot, very enjoyable read indeed.
A copy of this book was given to Ever After Romance Blog in exchange for an honest review.
August 30, 2013
***** 4.5 to 5 stars!!!! *****
For the full trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ky4_cE...
BEAUTIFUL.BEAUTIFUL.BEAUTIFUL.
There is nothing like reading a book and being mesmerized by it's brilliance. I've never read the original but I don't need to. If it's even remotely different, in any way, I won't go near it! This was incredible.
I love kidnapping tales. I love an alpha to come in and sweep you off your feet--literally!--and add to that a very atmospheric and lovely backdrop and you've just created magic.
Diana Mayo is a young and spoiled woman of leisure. She has been spending her time and money traveling the globe and interacting with the 'natives'. She travels with her much older half-brother, Aubrey, and has been looking forward to gaining her independence once of age, which is now.
Diana dreams of visiting the Sahara. Her and Aubrey have been in Algeria for longer than normal for them and although he insists on her accompanying him to the U.S, she angers him by stubbornly making haste to see and experience the nomadic desert life.
There are many things in play that Diana is unaware of and soon into her trek across the Sahara she is overtaken by a group of nomads on horseback. Fate settles into the story as Diana, attempting to escape gets taken.
Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan has taken the spoiled, haughty Diana and what ensues after that is wonderful! Ahmed has his reasons for the abduction, he's covered his bases and removed his tracks but he is not prepared for the emotional turmoil that ensues with his captive.
To say this was beautiful would be an understatement. The writing was phenomenal, evoking emotions exactly as intended. The setting was captivating, I felt like I lived right there among the nomadic tribes. We are talking French Algeria 1920, a stunning and rich backdrop against the politics of that time, including the resentment of the english, which our dear Diana is.
There was no unnecessary drama or misguided plot lines. It was a captivating and addicting book. I loved how Ahmed and Diana fought their feelings for each other but couldn't help but succumb to the dire need to be together. I only wish Diana was more vocal at times, more expressive of her thoughts, that could have alleviated some issues.
There is a scene in this book that surrounds her physical abduction by Ahmed and it's one of those scenes that kept re-playing in my head. I LOVED it. All I pictured was billowing robes and a hot and sexy pursuit on horseback with twilight descending. I still can't stop thinking about that scene...so good.
With a bevy of secondary characters and a very satisfying epilogue, this book should be read. Fantastic!
GENRE: HR
STEAM: High
POV: 1st person, Diana
CLIFFY: HEA!
*** Arc kindly provided by Victoria Vane ***
For the full trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ky4_cE...
BEAUTIFUL.BEAUTIFUL.BEAUTIFUL.
There is nothing like reading a book and being mesmerized by it's brilliance. I've never read the original but I don't need to. If it's even remotely different, in any way, I won't go near it! This was incredible.
I love kidnapping tales. I love an alpha to come in and sweep you off your feet--literally!--and add to that a very atmospheric and lovely backdrop and you've just created magic.
Diana Mayo is a young and spoiled woman of leisure. She has been spending her time and money traveling the globe and interacting with the 'natives'. She travels with her much older half-brother, Aubrey, and has been looking forward to gaining her independence once of age, which is now.
Diana dreams of visiting the Sahara. Her and Aubrey have been in Algeria for longer than normal for them and although he insists on her accompanying him to the U.S, she angers him by stubbornly making haste to see and experience the nomadic desert life.
There are many things in play that Diana is unaware of and soon into her trek across the Sahara she is overtaken by a group of nomads on horseback. Fate settles into the story as Diana, attempting to escape gets taken.
Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan has taken the spoiled, haughty Diana and what ensues after that is wonderful! Ahmed has his reasons for the abduction, he's covered his bases and removed his tracks but he is not prepared for the emotional turmoil that ensues with his captive.
To say this was beautiful would be an understatement. The writing was phenomenal, evoking emotions exactly as intended. The setting was captivating, I felt like I lived right there among the nomadic tribes. We are talking French Algeria 1920, a stunning and rich backdrop against the politics of that time, including the resentment of the english, which our dear Diana is.
There was no unnecessary drama or misguided plot lines. It was a captivating and addicting book. I loved how Ahmed and Diana fought their feelings for each other but couldn't help but succumb to the dire need to be together. I only wish Diana was more vocal at times, more expressive of her thoughts, that could have alleviated some issues.
There is a scene in this book that surrounds her physical abduction by Ahmed and it's one of those scenes that kept re-playing in my head. I LOVED it. All I pictured was billowing robes and a hot and sexy pursuit on horseback with twilight descending. I still can't stop thinking about that scene...so good.
With a bevy of secondary characters and a very satisfying epilogue, this book should be read. Fantastic!
GENRE: HR
STEAM: High
POV: 1st person, Diana
CLIFFY: HEA!
*** Arc kindly provided by Victoria Vane ***
October 15, 2013
Review posted at: Swept Away By Romance
Enjoy my joint review with Crista and Kristen!
What worked
Kathleen: Bodice Rippers have always been one of my favorite types of romances to read, so I was very excited when I got my hands on The Sheik Retold . I love the whole theme of a sexy Sheik that captures a beautiful young stubborn heiress. I was hooked right from page one, it was very exciting and there was never a dull moment.
One thing that REALLY stood out for me, was the words that the author used throughout the whole book, I was totally mesmerized as I read. The dialogue and chemistry between the Sheik, Ahmed, and Diana was phenomenal.
The heat level throughout was very sensual and incredibly STEAMY. That always works for me.
Crista: This book was pretty amazing and there were MANY things that worked. I loved Diana’s character and the fact that she’s a strong woman who resists capture and also resists the feelings her captor awakens inside her. For some reason, I’ve never heard of this story that was originally penned by Edith Maude Hall, but in hindsight I’m glad I read Victoria Vane’s fresh spin on this story first. There was nothing that offended me in this book, and I’m afraid had I read the first book, I may have been a bit tainted coming into this book.
Kristen: Because I disliked the original story plot, I was extremely grateful to Victoria Vane for reworking the derogatory elements of rape, racism, and animal cruelty that were so appalling to me. The author also softened the hero making him a more palatable character and gave the other characters in the story added dimension.
What didn’t work
Kathleen: There was not a thing that didn’t work for me. This book is a bodice ripper, so for some readers there might be some issues, but for me…the entire book was PERFECTION!
Crista: Nothing! I loved everything about this book. I loved the characters, the kidnapping plot, the setting, and THE SHEIK!!!
Kristen:Try as I might, I still fundamentally disliked this story, even in the retelling. Also, I struggled with the heroine, Diana's complete character makeover. Her character became too strong-willed and calculating considering the circumstances she was in. I understand the author's reasoning for strengthening Diana's character; it pretty much removed the rape element of the story making it more a form of forced seduction. However, it still didn't fully work for me. And, frankly, I felt the heroine came across as promiscuous and that bothered me considerably considering the situation.
Best scene(s)
Kathleen: Ahmed purposely breaks a wild horse while Diana is watching to give her the message, loud and clear, that he will break her too.
Diana's ah-ha moment when she realizes that everything around her is exactly what she was looking for while spending her month long adventure in the desert.
When Diana is just whipped one time out of 20, and Ahmed steps up to take the remainder of her whipping. It was very emotional!
The first time Diana and Ahmed have sex. It had just the right amount of steam and had me squirming in my seat. All of the love scenes throughout were wonderfully written and therefor were some of the best scenes for me.
Crista: Every. Single. Sex. Scene. Wow!! This book is hot, hot, hot…and I loved every minute.
Kristen: One of my favorite scenes in this book is when the author allows Diana to be the one to hear the hero, Ahmed's true feelings and affection for her rather than his best friend, who was the one to hear it in the original story. That rocked!
I also loved the last 20% of the book. It's how the original story should have ended.
Favorite character(s)
Kathleen: I can't choose between Ahmed and Diana. They were both splendid characters.
Diana was brave, prideful, strong, stubborn, willful, independent and VERY passionate. Ahmed made me sighhhhhhhhhh, he was VERY passionate too, but he was also dominate, vigorous, silver-tongued, intense, patient and OH SO SEXY!! They both brought so much depth into this book, so I can't possibly pick just one.
Crista: Diana. I loved her wit, honesty, strength and courage.
Kristen: I really enjoyed Raoul’s character. He treated Diana with respect and compassion. Too bad he wasn't the hero.
Overall Thoughts
Kathleen: This book was AMAZING! The words flowed so well and the story line was so good, that I was constantly thinking WOW, as I read from page to page. I loved all the characters throughout the book, even the villains were well done. The epilogue was FANTASTIC and answered all my questions. The book ended in the best possible way, and left me EXTREMELY satisfied. ~ 10 Stars, because 5 Stars is not enough!
Enjoy my joint review with Crista and Kristen!
What worked
Kathleen: Bodice Rippers have always been one of my favorite types of romances to read, so I was very excited when I got my hands on The Sheik Retold . I love the whole theme of a sexy Sheik that captures a beautiful young stubborn heiress. I was hooked right from page one, it was very exciting and there was never a dull moment.
One thing that REALLY stood out for me, was the words that the author used throughout the whole book, I was totally mesmerized as I read. The dialogue and chemistry between the Sheik, Ahmed, and Diana was phenomenal.
The heat level throughout was very sensual and incredibly STEAMY. That always works for me.
Crista: This book was pretty amazing and there were MANY things that worked. I loved Diana’s character and the fact that she’s a strong woman who resists capture and also resists the feelings her captor awakens inside her. For some reason, I’ve never heard of this story that was originally penned by Edith Maude Hall, but in hindsight I’m glad I read Victoria Vane’s fresh spin on this story first. There was nothing that offended me in this book, and I’m afraid had I read the first book, I may have been a bit tainted coming into this book.
Kristen: Because I disliked the original story plot, I was extremely grateful to Victoria Vane for reworking the derogatory elements of rape, racism, and animal cruelty that were so appalling to me. The author also softened the hero making him a more palatable character and gave the other characters in the story added dimension.
What didn’t work
Kathleen: There was not a thing that didn’t work for me. This book is a bodice ripper, so for some readers there might be some issues, but for me…the entire book was PERFECTION!
Crista: Nothing! I loved everything about this book. I loved the characters, the kidnapping plot, the setting, and THE SHEIK!!!
Kristen:Try as I might, I still fundamentally disliked this story, even in the retelling. Also, I struggled with the heroine, Diana's complete character makeover. Her character became too strong-willed and calculating considering the circumstances she was in. I understand the author's reasoning for strengthening Diana's character; it pretty much removed the rape element of the story making it more a form of forced seduction. However, it still didn't fully work for me. And, frankly, I felt the heroine came across as promiscuous and that bothered me considerably considering the situation.
Best scene(s)
Kathleen: Ahmed purposely breaks a wild horse while Diana is watching to give her the message, loud and clear, that he will break her too.
Diana's ah-ha moment when she realizes that everything around her is exactly what she was looking for while spending her month long adventure in the desert.
When Diana is just whipped one time out of 20, and Ahmed steps up to take the remainder of her whipping. It was very emotional!
The first time Diana and Ahmed have sex. It had just the right amount of steam and had me squirming in my seat. All of the love scenes throughout were wonderfully written and therefor were some of the best scenes for me.
Crista: Every. Single. Sex. Scene. Wow!! This book is hot, hot, hot…and I loved every minute.
Kristen: One of my favorite scenes in this book is when the author allows Diana to be the one to hear the hero, Ahmed's true feelings and affection for her rather than his best friend, who was the one to hear it in the original story. That rocked!
I also loved the last 20% of the book. It's how the original story should have ended.
Favorite character(s)
Kathleen: I can't choose between Ahmed and Diana. They were both splendid characters.
Diana was brave, prideful, strong, stubborn, willful, independent and VERY passionate. Ahmed made me sighhhhhhhhhh, he was VERY passionate too, but he was also dominate, vigorous, silver-tongued, intense, patient and OH SO SEXY!! They both brought so much depth into this book, so I can't possibly pick just one.
Crista: Diana. I loved her wit, honesty, strength and courage.
Kristen: I really enjoyed Raoul’s character. He treated Diana with respect and compassion. Too bad he wasn't the hero.
Overall Thoughts
Kathleen: This book was AMAZING! The words flowed so well and the story line was so good, that I was constantly thinking WOW, as I read from page to page. I loved all the characters throughout the book, even the villains were well done. The epilogue was FANTASTIC and answered all my questions. The book ended in the best possible way, and left me EXTREMELY satisfied. ~ 10 Stars, because 5 Stars is not enough!
July 31, 2014
4.5 stars from me. I don't remember who recco'd this book to me, but thanks! I read the reviews from Crista & Kathleen, and don't know how much I can add. I liked how intelligent and assertive Diana was. She did cause major events. Ahmed was quite the enigma. His friend Raoul is a great supporting character and added some back story to Ahmed (very necessary!). I would like to read a book about Raoul!
There was a lot of criticism about animal abuse. I didn't read it in this version. There were guns and knives so there were injuries and death. The build up to the smexing was great. Diana really changed/deleloped from the beginning of the story up to and beyond the half-way point. She started out reminding me of Bryony in Not Quite a Husband (Sherry Thomas). Ahmed's personality stayed consistently mercurial (contradictory, I know).
The ending was a little rushed- I wish that there would have been some explanation of the outside world vs Ahmed and his tribe. We do get an epilogue.
I had to retype this since GR deleted it!
There was a lot of criticism about animal abuse. I didn't read it in this version. There were guns and knives so there were injuries and death. The build up to the smexing was great. Diana really changed/deleloped from the beginning of the story up to and beyond the half-way point. She started out reminding me of Bryony in Not Quite a Husband (Sherry Thomas). Ahmed's personality stayed consistently mercurial (contradictory, I know).
The ending was a little rushed- I wish that there would have been some explanation of the outside world vs Ahmed and his tribe. We do get an epilogue.
I had to retype this since GR deleted it!
January 17, 2016
By: Victoria Vane & E. M. Hull
Published By: Vane Publishing
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
"The Sheik Retold" by Victoria Vane and E. M. Hull was one good historical romance read. After reading this novel I went and reread the original 'The Sheik' by E.M. Hull and all I can say is that "The Sheik Retold" is some good read with the beginning chapters basically follows the original story, however, after Diana's kidnapping by The Sheik the story takes off a little difference.
I felt that 'The Sheik Retold' really brings it all out to the reader so much that once starting the read you will not be able to put it down until the end. There was always something happening that will catch your attention and you had to read more to see what was going happening next.
The two main characters... were really something... the heroine...Diana Mayo, an English woman, who was "a haughty young heiress for who the world is a playground.'
quote: by Diana
"My life is mine and I will deal with it exactly as I wish. I will do what I choose when and how I choose. I will never again obey any will but my own."
Then then their was Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan (hero) who was 'cold, calculating, a chauvinist' and very used to having his way only. After Diane's brother, Aubrey wasn't able to talk her out of traveling this 'French Algerian Desert' alone because it wasn't safe, however, with her being to 'headstrong and stubborn' she is captured by 'The Sheik' who had some wild ideas of his own for this English woman.
The Sheik:
'Ahmed is his own law...he obeys no one. He is a fair ruler among his people...brutal and efficient, but fair. His near godlike status renders him answerable to none. What he wants, he has. His every whim is seen to, his every wish a reality. And he wants the blonde English beauty in his bed. Fortunately for Diana, he also takes great pride in wooing anyone or anything who doubts his authority...or his prowess...'
Diana soon learns that fighting this 'Sheik' would do no good because she had been 'stripped of the one thing she held dearly...her freedom.
quote: by The Sheik
"Shall I make you care, Cherie? Shall I make it your deepest desire, your only desire, to please me? I can make any woman love me when I choose."
Ahmed had seen her earlier and became intrigued and so now she was his to do whatever he wanted. So, we have two people...each used to having their way...and this is where this adventure takes off. Will they start to fall for each other? With both of these two being so stubborned it will be some interesting read. Be ready for some romance scenes. Will Diana began to discover the joys of actually being a woman? In the end will both of these two be capable of love?
quote by Diana
"I had lived my entire live indulging my sense with all things beautiful - art, music, food, wine, perfumes. I had never refrained from handling anything or feeling whatever I chose. Nothing had been out of bounds to me. My wealth allowed me these singular privileges, but I had never before indulge my receptors to another's touch. I had long ago shunned the need for suck physical contact as a contemptuous feminine weakness, but he had forced my submission to it."
This is where I say you must pick up "The Sheik Retold" to see how these authors will present this all to the readers. You will find it a little different from the original novel. There will be answers to many questions along with the mystery that was surrounded the hero just who was Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan?
You will find that the secondary characters were all very developed, captivating and colorful. The authors did a wonderful job with the descriptions of what was going on at that time... such as during the abduction by The Sheik was beautifully described .. making it so vivid that it seemed to have come to life.
"The Sheik Retold" was a very intriguing fascinating romantic story with plenty of action and will only leave you to say that these author's have done it again...giving the reader a excellent read. Thank you so very much Ms. Vane for letting me read this one early. Would I recommend? YES!!
Check this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ky4_cE...
Published By: Vane Publishing
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
"The Sheik Retold" by Victoria Vane and E. M. Hull was one good historical romance read. After reading this novel I went and reread the original 'The Sheik' by E.M. Hull and all I can say is that "The Sheik Retold" is some good read with the beginning chapters basically follows the original story, however, after Diana's kidnapping by The Sheik the story takes off a little difference.
I felt that 'The Sheik Retold' really brings it all out to the reader so much that once starting the read you will not be able to put it down until the end. There was always something happening that will catch your attention and you had to read more to see what was going happening next.
The two main characters... were really something... the heroine...Diana Mayo, an English woman, who was "a haughty young heiress for who the world is a playground.'
quote: by Diana
"My life is mine and I will deal with it exactly as I wish. I will do what I choose when and how I choose. I will never again obey any will but my own."
Then then their was Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan (hero) who was 'cold, calculating, a chauvinist' and very used to having his way only. After Diane's brother, Aubrey wasn't able to talk her out of traveling this 'French Algerian Desert' alone because it wasn't safe, however, with her being to 'headstrong and stubborn' she is captured by 'The Sheik' who had some wild ideas of his own for this English woman.
The Sheik:
'Ahmed is his own law...he obeys no one. He is a fair ruler among his people...brutal and efficient, but fair. His near godlike status renders him answerable to none. What he wants, he has. His every whim is seen to, his every wish a reality. And he wants the blonde English beauty in his bed. Fortunately for Diana, he also takes great pride in wooing anyone or anything who doubts his authority...or his prowess...'
Diana soon learns that fighting this 'Sheik' would do no good because she had been 'stripped of the one thing she held dearly...her freedom.
quote: by The Sheik
"Shall I make you care, Cherie? Shall I make it your deepest desire, your only desire, to please me? I can make any woman love me when I choose."
Ahmed had seen her earlier and became intrigued and so now she was his to do whatever he wanted. So, we have two people...each used to having their way...and this is where this adventure takes off. Will they start to fall for each other? With both of these two being so stubborned it will be some interesting read. Be ready for some romance scenes. Will Diana began to discover the joys of actually being a woman? In the end will both of these two be capable of love?
quote by Diana
"I had lived my entire live indulging my sense with all things beautiful - art, music, food, wine, perfumes. I had never refrained from handling anything or feeling whatever I chose. Nothing had been out of bounds to me. My wealth allowed me these singular privileges, but I had never before indulge my receptors to another's touch. I had long ago shunned the need for suck physical contact as a contemptuous feminine weakness, but he had forced my submission to it."
This is where I say you must pick up "The Sheik Retold" to see how these authors will present this all to the readers. You will find it a little different from the original novel. There will be answers to many questions along with the mystery that was surrounded the hero just who was Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan?
You will find that the secondary characters were all very developed, captivating and colorful. The authors did a wonderful job with the descriptions of what was going on at that time... such as during the abduction by The Sheik was beautifully described .. making it so vivid that it seemed to have come to life.
"The Sheik Retold" was a very intriguing fascinating romantic story with plenty of action and will only leave you to say that these author's have done it again...giving the reader a excellent read. Thank you so very much Ms. Vane for letting me read this one early. Would I recommend? YES!!
Check this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ky4_cE...
August 9, 2016
2.5 Non-Original Stars for a Partial Rewrite of a 1919 Landmark Historical Romance Classic
The Arrogant and Mesmerizing Blue Eyed Sheik
THE SHEIK by E.M. Hull, as ORIGINALLY published in 1919, is the best Sheik story I have read! If you are considering buying and reading The Sheik Retold, by Victoria Vale, I would strongly encourage you to download and read the ORIGINAL UNALTERED CLASSIC FIRST. It is FREE from amazon or Guttenberg.
The Sheik Retold is a Fan Fiction Story – while being even more invasive. FAN FICT TYPICALLY DOES NOT COPY PROSE VERBATIM and has an alternate Universe and different plot. THE SHEIK RETOLD IS A WHOLESALE COPY AND EDIT. It violates copy-write laws – for those countries where it is still in effect. And as the original author is no longer alive, there is no "implicit author permission" as in Fan Fict.
Given the time of publication of almost 100 years ago during the shocking destruction and loss of life of The Great War and the renewed interest in the Arab World due to the British fighting the Ottoman Empire there in Arab lands, and in the context of the repressed Victorian times of the novel's setting, THE SHEIK was an extraordinary book. Even if you don’t like the story line or authors writing, it is important as a bit of cultural literary history alone.
I have a personal fondness for an exotic romance adventure tale and this tale is a bit reminiscent of the sweeping epic of Lawrence of Arabia. It too is set in the same time frame of The Great War. The difference in the Arabic tribal culture and Western culture was so significant in Lawrence of Arabia that it was hard for me to wrap my mind around their way of life and thinking as depicted.
So too, Ahmed Ben Hassan's behavior and the Sheik needs to be viewed and evaluated in that foreign and somewhat alien context. I initially strongly disliked some aspects of The Sheik, beyond the forced sex, including such things as the racial slurs and smoking but with reflection also recognize that the characters were products of the historic time frame being written about and in the historic time frame of the books development and publication. In that light, The Sheik may have been considered progressive!
I loved The Sheik as a historical romance and am not surprised as it also reminds me of two other landmark historical romance fiction books: Gone with the Wind and Sweet Savage Love. The Sheik predates both of these by almost 20 and 50 years respectively. The only pre-existing similar popular romance fiction that I can think of that this novel could be derivative of would be Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. The Sheiks sensual descriptions and the crossing of racial lines made the book considered pornography by many of the day!
For good or bad, The original Sheik does NOT have explicit sex scenes but could be considered to be dark and edgy as it does have kidnapping, rape, deadly violence, and animal cruelty. And in some ways, The Sheik is even more extreme than any contemporary bodice ripper I have read – which must have made it VERY shocking for the time. No wonder it was banned!!
It is important to note that the animal cruelty is not intended as such given the context and timeframe - any more than the Native American would be thought cruel for deploying such methods for breaking a horse.
Ironically I also think the shooting of the horse was critical in the story as it was intended to display both Diana's and Hassan's stubborn natures. Ahmed was willing to sacrifice a trained and valued horse to capture her - a great sacrifice indeed for a mere woman. That he is even willing to kill or injure her in the process of bringing the horse down for her disobedience, is also a definite statement on how far he will go if challenged with anyone – as was Diana’s attempt to shoot him in the face.
E.M. Hull made the hero and heroine mirror images of each other to break down ethnic and cultural barriers and to make their love more inevitable and plausible. They share similar childhoods; interests and hobbies, and character flaws; and foils or opposites in body via ethnicity, physical appearance, and sex.
Both are wealthy and are used to an odd mix of Spartan and opulent life styles. Both are well educated and read and speak multiple languages. They are also both very proud and arrogant and are used to free reign and getting their way. Yet both have had harsh upbringings and were oddly deprived of love and tenderness in their youth.
Both are also incredibly physically attractive with one being dark and the other fair. Both are also used to using the power of their good looks and strong wills on the opposite sex - she with her feminine manipulation and aloofness and coldness and he with male manipulation through physical domination and control and passion.
There is an ongoing analogy and comparison of Diana to the wild and proud yet fragile Arabian horses Ahmed so loves and Ahmed to the fierce and powerful predatory Arabian Tiger, which in Diana's mind, arouses both fear and fascinated admiration.
Diana and Ahmed also share a deep and abiding love of the outdoors and the beauty of the desert.
One cannot miss that she shares Ahmed affection for his closet and most dear Best Friends - his valet, his French childhood friend the writer, and his huge and lumbering beast of a dog. And all his friends return her affections and are fiercely protective of her!
Most of all, they share an absolute passion and love of horses and horse-back riding.
They can no more resist loving these beautiful Arabian horses than they can resist loving each other. .
At the root of it all, I love that Ahmed and Diana evolve through the course of the story with each other being the catalyst for this change. They do not fall instantly fall in love - just the opposite. Instead they come to respect and admire each other and - despite their initial ingrained prejudices about each other’s ethnic background, culture, and sex - grow to love each other.
In the Sheik Retold, Victoria Vane, has attempted to soften or even eliminate the racial slurs, the rape, and other perceived "rough areas" in the original novel.
In the Sheik Retold, as by Victoria Vane, Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan is a gentler nicer hero. He still kidnaps Diana and he still forces his attentions on her, but it is all for her good.
This solution in the Sheik Retold to avoid a bodice ripper or rape was a nice idea but to me it still seemed a little too facile and completely out of character for Diana. Such a radical change would take months even years - not weeks! I also strongly dislike the radical change in relationship with her brother
As for the animal cruelty, the scene where Hassan breaks a horse violently is totally eliminated by the new author - though the horse shooting was. Both scene were pivotal to the story.
It was interesting to how the new author wove the new story and explicit sex scenes into the original work. Her style of prose was reasonably similar and the story was embellished primarily in the beginning and at the end so most of it was kept in tact.
But there were some notable times when the authors writing was obtrusive and jarring to me - in particular in some sex scene where the dialogue and sexual behavior seemed too contemporary and some cruder slang was used. An example was his "grabbing her arse" which may have been a slang term authentic to the time but not likely a word that a lady of breeding would think of VS "buttocks" or given that they were conversing in French, even "derrière".
The author of the Sheik Retold has written that she loved The Sheik but severely disliked Ahmed’s on going “rape” and brutal treatment of Diana. Many readers, myself initially, shared that view.
But upon reflection, and re-read of the original, I think that given the context of the time, and the lack of actual sex scene descriptions in E. M. Hull’s version, Diana's ongoing "rape" may not be as extreme or as "forced" as some of us may initially perceive in that context as well.
In Victorian times, women were not openly encouraged to enjoy sex. For a lady, sex was generally perceived as a painful and degrading duty, done in the dark and partially clothed, with the sole purpose to produce heirs. Sex was dirty, bestial, and base. Only a mistress or prostitute would enjoy sex for the sake of sex. Thus for many women, who felt morally suppressed or dirty for wanting sex, forced sex was a fantasy way of eliminating that guilt.
In the context of her times, Diana would have normally been forced to submit to a man in more ways than one via marriage. For the titled and wealthy, a woman's marriage was often arranged based upon status and wealth more than mutual interests and attraction.
Diana is an aberration from the average Victorian woman. Parentless, no one has arranged or forced her to marry. Her Brother to whom such responsibility should have fallen has been negligent and allowed her to behave as a man. She has now reached her majority and has come into her own wealth and independence. She has no intention of marrying ever and is on her own solo, typically male or Honeymoon taken, Grand Tour of Europe and the Exotic East.
While fiercely independent, Diana has an even greater aversion to sex and marriage than most Victorian woman as she has been deprived of any physical love and dislikes even to be touched. Undoubtedly she perceives sex as an act of domination and control. Given her extreme aversion to marriage and sex, and her spurning of earlier marriage offers, Diana appears destined to be a virginal eccentric spinster as she is already "on the shelf" and has decided to go, as a Lady, unescorted on a trip with wild men! Absolutely shocking!
In the beginning, it is obvious that Ahmed forces her submission to him through intimidation and physical might but how much he actually seduces her in the bedroom after her initial submission remains up to the reader’s imagination. There are no explicit sex scenes - The Sheiks sensual descriptions and racial lines were already considered pornography for the day!
That she is physically attracted to him, and he to her, is obvious throughout the book. The Sheiks sensual descriptions and the crossing of racial lines made the book considered pornography by many of the day!
As Ahmed brags about his prowess with other females, he is "Oriental" with experience and in the harem, and he is very physically attractive and fit, the reader could surmise that he is very likely talented indeed - in stark contrast to the repressed and indolent Victorian male.
How much Diana's self-loathing and hate of Ahmed is due to his awakening her passions and making her in fact a slave to him in spirit and mind, as well as body, is up to speculation.
I think that behind the scenes, he does indeed seduce her and thus her growing love of him beyond that explained by Stockholm syndrome.
There is a critical reference earlier in the book where she brags during dancing that she has always been in total control of her body. I think she is very shamed and horrified by her body's response and awaken passions to him.
I am not alone in this interpretation. For an excellent and detailed review with book excerpts hinting at this complex physical and emotional relationship, please see review: http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...
In The Sheik Retold, Victoria Vale justifies Ahmed's kidnap of Diana and makes him heroic as having saved her from an newly introduced external threat - which also greatly alters another central relationship in the original and Diana's life. In the original, The Sheik, Ahmed does not need such plot contrivances. Despite his own initial selfish motives, he is heroic by saving Diana from herself and what would have been a cold, loveless, and barren life. As a matter of fact, he mentions later that he was angry all his life and she has saved him as well.
Besides the conflict in the relationship between Diana and Ahmed, there is plenty of other action and conflict in this adventure tale. Numerous times throughout the story the hero and heroine are almost killed. One of the many close calls was Diana's capture by the opposing tribe and the subsequent fight scenes. As Diana is almost killed at least 3 times in total, if one includes the horse shooting, the melodrama and violence was a bit over the top. As it was not always predictable, I did enjoy it as a change!
As with any bodice ripper, the male lead needs to evolve from anti-hero to hero and some excuse must be made for his unacceptable earlier behavior and amends must be made. Because, despite any repressed female's rape fantasy, actual rape is reprehensible and an act of violence not love.
In the case of the Sheik, a child hood tragedy back story is used to make Sheik Hassan's initial behavior, i.e. Dina's kidnap and rape, and his earlier rage more palatable. A similar explanation is used to explain Diana's spurning of men, her repressed nature, her traveling alone, etc.. Both of their dysfunctional pasts and early childhood traumas and deprivations are revealed to the reader and to each other through the course of the story .
While this backstory does seem a bit contrived, even today early child trauma is frequently used as a plot device in many contemporary romance books as a justification hero or heroine bad behavior. Given that this book is almost 100 years old, and that psychology was in its infancy as a field, the author may have been actually innovative in using this particular plot device...
In the end, out of all the trauma, and near death encounters, Diana and Hassan do ultimately find forgiveness - Diana of Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan's initial hateful treatment of her and he of himself for having harmed her. I the end, we discover something about Ahmed which was I suspect to make their union more palatable to the general English public's sensibilities of the time. A public who was then even more prejudiced than today.
Overall, I thought The Sheik interesting and fascinating as a romance adventure novel and was delighted to read it for FREE.
I just watched the silent movie classic The Sheik with Valentino and loved it. It is in some ways better than the book as it softens or eliminates some of the more shocking aspects.
Valentino and the movie made the Sheik so much more lovable by portraying him as almost childlike. He is almost innocent of the severity of his crime.
He is used to the Arab culture where women are a cheap commodity to be bought and sold. He, as a powerful sheik, is used to woman fawning on him and falling at his feet.
He looks so wounded when she turns away his kisses. He closes his eyes and looks so guilt ridden and conflicted when he realizes how deeply he has hurt her.
All three, the movie, the original Sheik, and the Sheik Retold were new for me and all three have a different take on the same basic story line. While, I have enjoyed them all, the original The Sheik is my favorite.
Given the time of publication of approx. 100 years ago, and in the context of the times, this was an EXTRAORDINARY book and will remain as a timeless classic of historical romance for every generation.
Again, if you are considering buying and reading The Sheik Retold, I would encourage you to download and read the original Sheik FIRST for FREE.
Though the Sheik Retold retains much of The Sheik prose, it does not indicate what is the original prose VS altered prose (modified, deleted, added).
More importantly ALL these alterations greatly modify the story line and Diana’s and Ahmed’s characters. It is simply not the same piece of work.
Despite my mixed feelings on The Sheik Retold being an outright alteration of a genuine Romance Classic for profit, I am very grateful for Victoria Vane for reviving interest in The Sheik and for leading me to all its variations including hers.
You will undoubtedly experience a love hate relationship with The Sheik and even possibly The Sheik Retold as I have at times – but you may find that despite your initial distaste, you come away with a new perspective and potentially a new found love.The Sheik has worked its way both into my heart and mind and onto my Classics and Favorites list.
(Note review as original Sept 6, 2013 - edited for image error.
The Arrogant and Mesmerizing Blue Eyed Sheik
THE SHEIK by E.M. Hull, as ORIGINALLY published in 1919, is the best Sheik story I have read! If you are considering buying and reading The Sheik Retold, by Victoria Vale, I would strongly encourage you to download and read the ORIGINAL UNALTERED CLASSIC FIRST. It is FREE from amazon or Guttenberg.
The Sheik Retold is a Fan Fiction Story – while being even more invasive. FAN FICT TYPICALLY DOES NOT COPY PROSE VERBATIM and has an alternate Universe and different plot. THE SHEIK RETOLD IS A WHOLESALE COPY AND EDIT. It violates copy-write laws – for those countries where it is still in effect. And as the original author is no longer alive, there is no "implicit author permission" as in Fan Fict.
Given the time of publication of almost 100 years ago during the shocking destruction and loss of life of The Great War and the renewed interest in the Arab World due to the British fighting the Ottoman Empire there in Arab lands, and in the context of the repressed Victorian times of the novel's setting, THE SHEIK was an extraordinary book. Even if you don’t like the story line or authors writing, it is important as a bit of cultural literary history alone.
I have a personal fondness for an exotic romance adventure tale and this tale is a bit reminiscent of the sweeping epic of Lawrence of Arabia. It too is set in the same time frame of The Great War. The difference in the Arabic tribal culture and Western culture was so significant in Lawrence of Arabia that it was hard for me to wrap my mind around their way of life and thinking as depicted.
So too, Ahmed Ben Hassan's behavior and the Sheik needs to be viewed and evaluated in that foreign and somewhat alien context. I initially strongly disliked some aspects of The Sheik, beyond the forced sex, including such things as the racial slurs and smoking but with reflection also recognize that the characters were products of the historic time frame being written about and in the historic time frame of the books development and publication. In that light, The Sheik may have been considered progressive!
I loved The Sheik as a historical romance and am not surprised as it also reminds me of two other landmark historical romance fiction books: Gone with the Wind and Sweet Savage Love. The Sheik predates both of these by almost 20 and 50 years respectively. The only pre-existing similar popular romance fiction that I can think of that this novel could be derivative of would be Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. The Sheiks sensual descriptions and the crossing of racial lines made the book considered pornography by many of the day!
For good or bad, The original Sheik does NOT have explicit sex scenes but could be considered to be dark and edgy as it does have kidnapping, rape, deadly violence, and animal cruelty. And in some ways, The Sheik is even more extreme than any contemporary bodice ripper I have read – which must have made it VERY shocking for the time. No wonder it was banned!!
It is important to note that the animal cruelty is not intended as such given the context and timeframe - any more than the Native American would be thought cruel for deploying such methods for breaking a horse.
Ironically I also think the shooting of the horse was critical in the story as it was intended to display both Diana's and Hassan's stubborn natures. Ahmed was willing to sacrifice a trained and valued horse to capture her - a great sacrifice indeed for a mere woman. That he is even willing to kill or injure her in the process of bringing the horse down for her disobedience, is also a definite statement on how far he will go if challenged with anyone – as was Diana’s attempt to shoot him in the face.
E.M. Hull made the hero and heroine mirror images of each other to break down ethnic and cultural barriers and to make their love more inevitable and plausible. They share similar childhoods; interests and hobbies, and character flaws; and foils or opposites in body via ethnicity, physical appearance, and sex.
Both are wealthy and are used to an odd mix of Spartan and opulent life styles. Both are well educated and read and speak multiple languages. They are also both very proud and arrogant and are used to free reign and getting their way. Yet both have had harsh upbringings and were oddly deprived of love and tenderness in their youth.
Both are also incredibly physically attractive with one being dark and the other fair. Both are also used to using the power of their good looks and strong wills on the opposite sex - she with her feminine manipulation and aloofness and coldness and he with male manipulation through physical domination and control and passion.
There is an ongoing analogy and comparison of Diana to the wild and proud yet fragile Arabian horses Ahmed so loves and Ahmed to the fierce and powerful predatory Arabian Tiger, which in Diana's mind, arouses both fear and fascinated admiration.
Diana and Ahmed also share a deep and abiding love of the outdoors and the beauty of the desert.
One cannot miss that she shares Ahmed affection for his closet and most dear Best Friends - his valet, his French childhood friend the writer, and his huge and lumbering beast of a dog. And all his friends return her affections and are fiercely protective of her!
Most of all, they share an absolute passion and love of horses and horse-back riding.
They can no more resist loving these beautiful Arabian horses than they can resist loving each other. .
At the root of it all, I love that Ahmed and Diana evolve through the course of the story with each other being the catalyst for this change. They do not fall instantly fall in love - just the opposite. Instead they come to respect and admire each other and - despite their initial ingrained prejudices about each other’s ethnic background, culture, and sex - grow to love each other.
In the Sheik Retold, Victoria Vane, has attempted to soften or even eliminate the racial slurs, the rape, and other perceived "rough areas" in the original novel.
In the Sheik Retold, as by Victoria Vane, Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan is a gentler nicer hero. He still kidnaps Diana and he still forces his attentions on her, but it is all for her good.
This solution in the Sheik Retold to avoid a bodice ripper or rape was a nice idea but to me it still seemed a little too facile and completely out of character for Diana. Such a radical change would take months even years - not weeks! I also strongly dislike the radical change in relationship with her brother
As for the animal cruelty, the scene where Hassan breaks a horse violently is totally eliminated by the new author - though the horse shooting was. Both scene were pivotal to the story.
It was interesting to how the new author wove the new story and explicit sex scenes into the original work. Her style of prose was reasonably similar and the story was embellished primarily in the beginning and at the end so most of it was kept in tact.
But there were some notable times when the authors writing was obtrusive and jarring to me - in particular in some sex scene where the dialogue and sexual behavior seemed too contemporary and some cruder slang was used. An example was his "grabbing her arse" which may have been a slang term authentic to the time but not likely a word that a lady of breeding would think of VS "buttocks" or given that they were conversing in French, even "derrière".
The author of the Sheik Retold has written that she loved The Sheik but severely disliked Ahmed’s on going “rape” and brutal treatment of Diana. Many readers, myself initially, shared that view.
But upon reflection, and re-read of the original, I think that given the context of the time, and the lack of actual sex scene descriptions in E. M. Hull’s version, Diana's ongoing "rape" may not be as extreme or as "forced" as some of us may initially perceive in that context as well.
In Victorian times, women were not openly encouraged to enjoy sex. For a lady, sex was generally perceived as a painful and degrading duty, done in the dark and partially clothed, with the sole purpose to produce heirs. Sex was dirty, bestial, and base. Only a mistress or prostitute would enjoy sex for the sake of sex. Thus for many women, who felt morally suppressed or dirty for wanting sex, forced sex was a fantasy way of eliminating that guilt.
In the context of her times, Diana would have normally been forced to submit to a man in more ways than one via marriage. For the titled and wealthy, a woman's marriage was often arranged based upon status and wealth more than mutual interests and attraction.
Diana is an aberration from the average Victorian woman. Parentless, no one has arranged or forced her to marry. Her Brother to whom such responsibility should have fallen has been negligent and allowed her to behave as a man. She has now reached her majority and has come into her own wealth and independence. She has no intention of marrying ever and is on her own solo, typically male or Honeymoon taken, Grand Tour of Europe and the Exotic East.
While fiercely independent, Diana has an even greater aversion to sex and marriage than most Victorian woman as she has been deprived of any physical love and dislikes even to be touched. Undoubtedly she perceives sex as an act of domination and control. Given her extreme aversion to marriage and sex, and her spurning of earlier marriage offers, Diana appears destined to be a virginal eccentric spinster as she is already "on the shelf" and has decided to go, as a Lady, unescorted on a trip with wild men! Absolutely shocking!
In the beginning, it is obvious that Ahmed forces her submission to him through intimidation and physical might but how much he actually seduces her in the bedroom after her initial submission remains up to the reader’s imagination. There are no explicit sex scenes - The Sheiks sensual descriptions and racial lines were already considered pornography for the day!
That she is physically attracted to him, and he to her, is obvious throughout the book. The Sheiks sensual descriptions and the crossing of racial lines made the book considered pornography by many of the day!
As Ahmed brags about his prowess with other females, he is "Oriental" with experience and in the harem, and he is very physically attractive and fit, the reader could surmise that he is very likely talented indeed - in stark contrast to the repressed and indolent Victorian male.
How much Diana's self-loathing and hate of Ahmed is due to his awakening her passions and making her in fact a slave to him in spirit and mind, as well as body, is up to speculation.
I think that behind the scenes, he does indeed seduce her and thus her growing love of him beyond that explained by Stockholm syndrome.
There is a critical reference earlier in the book where she brags during dancing that she has always been in total control of her body. I think she is very shamed and horrified by her body's response and awaken passions to him.
I am not alone in this interpretation. For an excellent and detailed review with book excerpts hinting at this complex physical and emotional relationship, please see review: http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...
In The Sheik Retold, Victoria Vale justifies Ahmed's kidnap of Diana and makes him heroic as having saved her from an newly introduced external threat - which also greatly alters another central relationship in the original and Diana's life. In the original, The Sheik, Ahmed does not need such plot contrivances. Despite his own initial selfish motives, he is heroic by saving Diana from herself and what would have been a cold, loveless, and barren life. As a matter of fact, he mentions later that he was angry all his life and she has saved him as well.
Besides the conflict in the relationship between Diana and Ahmed, there is plenty of other action and conflict in this adventure tale. Numerous times throughout the story the hero and heroine are almost killed. One of the many close calls was Diana's capture by the opposing tribe and the subsequent fight scenes. As Diana is almost killed at least 3 times in total, if one includes the horse shooting, the melodrama and violence was a bit over the top. As it was not always predictable, I did enjoy it as a change!
As with any bodice ripper, the male lead needs to evolve from anti-hero to hero and some excuse must be made for his unacceptable earlier behavior and amends must be made. Because, despite any repressed female's rape fantasy, actual rape is reprehensible and an act of violence not love.
In the case of the Sheik, a child hood tragedy back story is used to make Sheik Hassan's initial behavior, i.e. Dina's kidnap and rape, and his earlier rage more palatable. A similar explanation is used to explain Diana's spurning of men, her repressed nature, her traveling alone, etc.. Both of their dysfunctional pasts and early childhood traumas and deprivations are revealed to the reader and to each other through the course of the story .
While this backstory does seem a bit contrived, even today early child trauma is frequently used as a plot device in many contemporary romance books as a justification hero or heroine bad behavior. Given that this book is almost 100 years old, and that psychology was in its infancy as a field, the author may have been actually innovative in using this particular plot device...
In the end, out of all the trauma, and near death encounters, Diana and Hassan do ultimately find forgiveness - Diana of Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan's initial hateful treatment of her and he of himself for having harmed her. I the end, we discover something about Ahmed which was I suspect to make their union more palatable to the general English public's sensibilities of the time. A public who was then even more prejudiced than today.
Overall, I thought The Sheik interesting and fascinating as a romance adventure novel and was delighted to read it for FREE.
I just watched the silent movie classic The Sheik with Valentino and loved it. It is in some ways better than the book as it softens or eliminates some of the more shocking aspects.
Valentino and the movie made the Sheik so much more lovable by portraying him as almost childlike. He is almost innocent of the severity of his crime.
He is used to the Arab culture where women are a cheap commodity to be bought and sold. He, as a powerful sheik, is used to woman fawning on him and falling at his feet.
He looks so wounded when she turns away his kisses. He closes his eyes and looks so guilt ridden and conflicted when he realizes how deeply he has hurt her.
All three, the movie, the original Sheik, and the Sheik Retold were new for me and all three have a different take on the same basic story line. While, I have enjoyed them all, the original The Sheik is my favorite.
Given the time of publication of approx. 100 years ago, and in the context of the times, this was an EXTRAORDINARY book and will remain as a timeless classic of historical romance for every generation.
Again, if you are considering buying and reading The Sheik Retold, I would encourage you to download and read the original Sheik FIRST for FREE.
Though the Sheik Retold retains much of The Sheik prose, it does not indicate what is the original prose VS altered prose (modified, deleted, added).
More importantly ALL these alterations greatly modify the story line and Diana’s and Ahmed’s characters. It is simply not the same piece of work.
Despite my mixed feelings on The Sheik Retold being an outright alteration of a genuine Romance Classic for profit, I am very grateful for Victoria Vane for reviving interest in The Sheik and for leading me to all its variations including hers.
You will undoubtedly experience a love hate relationship with The Sheik and even possibly The Sheik Retold as I have at times – but you may find that despite your initial distaste, you come away with a new perspective and potentially a new found love.The Sheik has worked its way both into my heart and mind and onto my Classics and Favorites list.
(Note review as original Sept 6, 2013 - edited for image error.
Shelved as 'own-need-to-read'
September 17, 2013Check out this gorgeous new cover!!
>
September 6, 2013
** NOTE** Due to differing copyright laws, this book is currently only available in the US, Canada, Australia, India and Japan.
★✩★✩★✩★✩★
I absolutely love THE SHEIK RETOLD! Victoria Vane adds her magical touch to this re-telling of E. M. Hull's THE SHEIK.
I love how Ms Vane has reworked those elements of THE SHEIK that I disliked, whilst staying true to the original concept.
Ahmed is still the powerful, fierce, despotic leader who demands total obedience from everyone but Ms Vane has tempered his character with moments of tenderness, gentleness and vulnerability… as in this scene when his iron self-control slips a tad...
"You wear no undergarments?" he asked in a husky voice.
”This gown permits none," I replied flippantly.
I felt as much a heard his sharp intake of breath and the press of his burgeoning erection against my bottom. Fumbling slightly, he slipped a long jade necklace over my head and stepped back from me.
Ms Vane has kept Diane true to her character...strong ...resilient...fearless. Although she knows she must submit to Ahmed, Diane is determined not to be submissive...she will meet him on an equal footing.
Yes, I decided. I would take him as my lover - for as long as it suited me to do so.
Gone is the often tedious pacing of the original story. The SHEIK RETOLD is fast-paced with the perfect mix of tight narrative and sharp dialogue. The chemistry between Ahmed and Diana is tangible...the sexual tension sizzling...the love scenes smoldering. My favourite involves a bearskin!
Ms Vane has always had the innate ability to draw me into her stories with writing that is evocative, emotive and sensual. Her vivid images create a real sense of mood and atmosphere.
Like a stalking tiger, his mesmerizing gaze lingered on me with a hunger his languid manner could not disguise.
Victoria Vane proves once again why she is among my top favourite authors with this compelling and action-packed tale of passion, desire and love. Definitely a keeper!
REVIEW RATING: 5/5 Stars
SENSUALITY RATING: SIZZLING
My sincere thanks to Victoria Vane for providing me with a copy of this book in return for a honest review.
This review is also posted on my blog:
http://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com/...
★✩★✩★✩★✩★
I absolutely love THE SHEIK RETOLD! Victoria Vane adds her magical touch to this re-telling of E. M. Hull's THE SHEIK.
I love how Ms Vane has reworked those elements of THE SHEIK that I disliked, whilst staying true to the original concept.
Ahmed is still the powerful, fierce, despotic leader who demands total obedience from everyone but Ms Vane has tempered his character with moments of tenderness, gentleness and vulnerability… as in this scene when his iron self-control slips a tad...
"You wear no undergarments?" he asked in a husky voice.
”This gown permits none," I replied flippantly.
I felt as much a heard his sharp intake of breath and the press of his burgeoning erection against my bottom. Fumbling slightly, he slipped a long jade necklace over my head and stepped back from me.
Ms Vane has kept Diane true to her character...strong ...resilient...fearless. Although she knows she must submit to Ahmed, Diane is determined not to be submissive...she will meet him on an equal footing.
Yes, I decided. I would take him as my lover - for as long as it suited me to do so.
Gone is the often tedious pacing of the original story. The SHEIK RETOLD is fast-paced with the perfect mix of tight narrative and sharp dialogue. The chemistry between Ahmed and Diana is tangible...the sexual tension sizzling...the love scenes smoldering. My favourite involves a bearskin!
Ms Vane has always had the innate ability to draw me into her stories with writing that is evocative, emotive and sensual. Her vivid images create a real sense of mood and atmosphere.
Like a stalking tiger, his mesmerizing gaze lingered on me with a hunger his languid manner could not disguise.
Victoria Vane proves once again why she is among my top favourite authors with this compelling and action-packed tale of passion, desire and love. Definitely a keeper!
REVIEW RATING: 5/5 Stars
SENSUALITY RATING: SIZZLING
My sincere thanks to Victoria Vane for providing me with a copy of this book in return for a honest review.
This review is also posted on my blog:
http://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com/...
August 30, 2013
I actually had to think overnight on what to say about this story. It's still stuck with me, so will put my words here for you, so that you, my fellow reader, may read and decide for yourself.
5 stars. And I only give these out to books that stay with me.... hold me...make me want to go where the book has gone. In the beginning when I first started my GR account it was just a way to get the finished book on the list and move forward. But I've learned my lesson and give out 5 when the book hits me in the forehead and says STOP! Don't do anything else but read this book and finish it!
Ms. Vane sent me an ARC as I've read previous books, but don't let that persuade you that I am a pushover! Won't happen as I know authors need the good and the bad to move forward.
Meet our golden haired heroine, Diana Mayo and the sultry Sheik, Ahmed. Their story unfolds quickly and Diana is taken from her traveling party in the desert and transported into a life that she never expected. The dangers of the desert excite her, but little did she know with that danger, came pain & pleasure. Ms. Vane and her co-writer have taken us on a trip that each of us could endure, if only for the love of the sultry sheik. Diana grows as a true woman in this story and she reaches as far as the desert will allow. And wins. There is a HEA here, but it's a long time coming and you will *gasp* as I did as you continue the story and realize there is more.
The imagery in The Sheik Retold captured me and held on tight. I felt the heat of the desert, although I live in one so wasn't too hard. I gasped at the taming of the horses. I felt the care that Gaston, the sheik's "man", took of Diana. I wanted to try the "sickly sweet coffee" that she despised! Each paragraph fell like a grain of sand blowing in the Sahara Desert. This was just more than I expected.
5 stars. And I only give these out to books that stay with me.... hold me...make me want to go where the book has gone. In the beginning when I first started my GR account it was just a way to get the finished book on the list and move forward. But I've learned my lesson and give out 5 when the book hits me in the forehead and says STOP! Don't do anything else but read this book and finish it!
Ms. Vane sent me an ARC as I've read previous books, but don't let that persuade you that I am a pushover! Won't happen as I know authors need the good and the bad to move forward.
Meet our golden haired heroine, Diana Mayo and the sultry Sheik, Ahmed. Their story unfolds quickly and Diana is taken from her traveling party in the desert and transported into a life that she never expected. The dangers of the desert excite her, but little did she know with that danger, came pain & pleasure. Ms. Vane and her co-writer have taken us on a trip that each of us could endure, if only for the love of the sultry sheik. Diana grows as a true woman in this story and she reaches as far as the desert will allow. And wins. There is a HEA here, but it's a long time coming and you will *gasp* as I did as you continue the story and realize there is more.
The imagery in The Sheik Retold captured me and held on tight. I felt the heat of the desert, although I live in one so wasn't too hard. I gasped at the taming of the horses. I felt the care that Gaston, the sheik's "man", took of Diana. I wanted to try the "sickly sweet coffee" that she despised! Each paragraph fell like a grain of sand blowing in the Sahara Desert. This was just more than I expected.
October 17, 2013
Joint Review: Kathleen, Crista and Kristen
What worked:
Kathleen: Bodice Rippers have always been one of my favorite types of romances to read, so I was very excited when I got my hands on The Sheik Retold. I love the whole theme of a sexy Sheik that captures a beautiful young stubborn heiress. I was hooked right from page one, it was very exciting and there was never a dull moment.
One thing that REALLY stood out for me, was the words that the author used throughout the whole book, I was totally mesmerized as I read. The dialogue and chemistry between the Sheik, Ahmed, and Diana was phenomenal.
The heat level throughout was very sensual and incredibly STEAMY. That always works for me.
Crista: This book was pretty amazing and there were MANY things that worked. I loved Diana’s character and the fact that she’s a strong woman who resists capture and also resists the feelings her captor awakens inside her. For some reason, I’ve never heard of this story that was originally penned by Edith Maude Hall, but in hindsight I’m glad I read Victoria Vane’s fresh spin on this story first. There was nothing that offended me in this book, and I’m afraid had I read the first book, I may have been a bit tainted coming into this book.
Kristen: Because I disliked the original story plot, I was extremely grateful to Victoria Vane for reworking the derogatory elements of rape, racism, and animal cruelty that were so appalling to me. The author also softened the hero making him a more palatable character and gave the other characters in the story added dimension.
What didn’t work
Kathleen: There was not a thing that didn’t work for me. This book is a bodice ripper, so for some readers there might be some issues, but for me…the entire book was PERFECTION!
Crista: Nothing! I loved everything about this book. I loved the characters, the kidnapping plot, the setting, and THE SHEIK!!!
Kristen: Try as I might, I still fundamentally disliked this story, even in the retelling. Also, I struggled with the heroine, Diana's complete character makeover. Her character became too strong-willed and calculating considering the circumstances she was in. I understand the author's reasoning for strengthening Diana's character; it pretty much removed the rape element of the story making it more a form of forced seduction. However, it still didn't fully work for me. And, frankly, I felt the heroine came across as promiscuous and that bothered me considerably considering the situation.
Best scene(s)
Kathleen: Ahmed purposely breaks a wild horse while Diana is watching to give her the message, loud and clear, that he will break her too.
Diana's ah-ha moment when she realizes that everything around her is exactly what she was looking for while spending her month long adventure in the desert.
When Diana is just whipped one time out of 20, and Ahmed steps up to take the remainder of her whipping. It was very emotional!
The first time Diana and Ahmed have sex. It had just the right amount of steam and had me squirming in my seat. All of the love scenes throughout were wonderfully written and therefor were some of the best scenes for me.
Crista: Every. Single. Sex. Scene. Wow!! This book is hot, hot, hot…and I loved every minute!
Kristen: One of my favorite scenes in this book is when the author allows Diana to be the one to hear the hero, Ahmed's true feelings and affection for her rather than his best friend, who was the one to hear it in the original story. That rocked!
I also loved the last 20% of the book. It's how the original story should have ended.
Favorite character(s)
Kathleen: I can't choose between Ahmed and Diana. They were both splendid characters.
Diana was brave, prideful, strong, stubborn, willful, independent and VERY passionate. Ahmed made me sighhhhhhhhhh, he was VERY passionate too, but he was also dominate, vigorous, silver-tongued, intense, patient and OH SO SEXY!! They both brought so much depth into this book, so I can't possibly pick just one.
Crista: Diana. I loved her wit, honesty, strength and courage.
Kristen: I really enjoyed Raoul’s character. He treated Diana with respect and compassion. Too bad he wasn't the hero.
Overall Thoughts
Kathleen: This book was AMAZING! The words flowed so well and the story line was so good, that I was constantly thinking WOW, as I read from page to page. I loved all the characters throughout the book, even the villains were well done. The epilogue was FANTASTIC and answered all my questions. The book ended in the best possible way, and left me EXTREMELY satisfied. ~ 10 Stars, because 5 Stars is not enough!
Crista: The Sheik Retold was an amazing love story that takes place in a unique and compelling setting. I’ve never read a Sheik romance before and I wonder what I’ve been waiting for. If all Sheiks are like Ahmed Ben Hassan, then I WANT MORE!!
Although this love story begins under a less than ideal situation, I loved watching Ahmed fall in love for the first time and Diana mature and grow as a person. Watching two different people and cultures collide and learn from one another was absolutely amazing. I loved the ending and the epilogue and ended this book with a satisfied sigh.
Don’t miss this one! ~ 5 stars!!
Kristen: To be honest, this has been a very difficult journey for me. In preparing to read this revised story of The Sheik, I felt I needed to read the original, and though the story intrigued me, I pretty much HATED it! Unfortunately, I couldn't fully shake my prejudice, and even though I enjoyed this version far more, it still didn't work for me quite like I hoped.
I love Victoria Vane. This woman can write!!! And while she did a commendable job with the retelling of this story, I prefer her original works. For me, they're far more appealing. ~ 3 Stars!
Review posted at: Swept Away By Romance
September 26, 2013
Traveling into the desert by caravan only to be taken up by a handsome, fearsome Sheik who brings one back to his sumptuously appointed tent only to have his wicked way... It's a story that incites that tantalizing blend of fear and excitement. Many times this story has been told and retold, but one of the earliest and best versions out there has sat on the shelf for many years just waiting to be picked up and retold to a new appreciative audience. I was so excited when I found out the author was tackling one of my favorite stories.
A retelling is always a chancy thing, but not in this case. I really like what the author has done with this retelling. She has enhanced what was already the stuff of daydreams and tossed aside that which interfered with the romance and core of the story.
The story is a historical from the year 1920 taking place in North Africa. A young, carefree and willful heiress decides that her first act in coming of age and no longer a ward of her older brother is to set out alone across the desert with just a guide, his help and a few necessities for a desert adventure. Diana is warned the the tribes are restless and that she shouldn't go alone and better yet not at all, but she is heedless. Not long into her journey, she discovers her error when her little group are surrounded by men of the desert. She is taken captive and learns her fate is to be at the whim of the sheik of the tribe.
Diana is parts defiant and fearful, but the sheik is relentless. He is in utter control and its up to her whether she will be broken gently or just broken like one of his beloved horses. Diana is not stupid so she accepts the inevitable, but she will do it on her terms. The passion explodes between them, but Diana soon learns to crave more than the Sheik is willing to give. This leaves her burdened with her own feelings and back again with her need to escape even as she gets a first hand glimpse of the terrors of tribal war.
The story is in essentials the same as the original, but this one offers a softer, more romantic tale with some of the rougher elements smoothed out. That being said, it still challenges the senses because of Diana's wonderful first person narrative. She is unapologetic about who and what she is along with what she wants. She reads the situation around her well, but she is still very young and heedless in many ways. Much of her harder adventures and subsequent lessons come from being forced to confront her own selfish, thoughtlessness. Normally, that sort of behavior annoys me, but Diana is constantly learning and experiences true remorse so I can appreciate the growth that takes place.
As to the dynamics in this relationship, Diana is essentially a captive to Ahmed, the Sheik. He is a multi-faceted character who is a man of his place and time- not the typical historical romance hero at all. He, too, is unapologetic and takes what he wants when he wants it, but he is not without a sense of fairness and tenderness. He experiences his own growth arc that is much more subtle, but there is the reader is paying attention. With the narration all on Diana, Ahmed retains some mystery to him until near the end when his friend gives Diana his history that makes him what he is.
So all in all, it was a fabulous experience to return to this story and see it improved in every way as far as I'm concerned. Those who enjoy tempestuous, passionate historical romance in exotic settings should give this one a try.
A retelling is always a chancy thing, but not in this case. I really like what the author has done with this retelling. She has enhanced what was already the stuff of daydreams and tossed aside that which interfered with the romance and core of the story.
The story is a historical from the year 1920 taking place in North Africa. A young, carefree and willful heiress decides that her first act in coming of age and no longer a ward of her older brother is to set out alone across the desert with just a guide, his help and a few necessities for a desert adventure. Diana is warned the the tribes are restless and that she shouldn't go alone and better yet not at all, but she is heedless. Not long into her journey, she discovers her error when her little group are surrounded by men of the desert. She is taken captive and learns her fate is to be at the whim of the sheik of the tribe.
Diana is parts defiant and fearful, but the sheik is relentless. He is in utter control and its up to her whether she will be broken gently or just broken like one of his beloved horses. Diana is not stupid so she accepts the inevitable, but she will do it on her terms. The passion explodes between them, but Diana soon learns to crave more than the Sheik is willing to give. This leaves her burdened with her own feelings and back again with her need to escape even as she gets a first hand glimpse of the terrors of tribal war.
The story is in essentials the same as the original, but this one offers a softer, more romantic tale with some of the rougher elements smoothed out. That being said, it still challenges the senses because of Diana's wonderful first person narrative. She is unapologetic about who and what she is along with what she wants. She reads the situation around her well, but she is still very young and heedless in many ways. Much of her harder adventures and subsequent lessons come from being forced to confront her own selfish, thoughtlessness. Normally, that sort of behavior annoys me, but Diana is constantly learning and experiences true remorse so I can appreciate the growth that takes place.
As to the dynamics in this relationship, Diana is essentially a captive to Ahmed, the Sheik. He is a multi-faceted character who is a man of his place and time- not the typical historical romance hero at all. He, too, is unapologetic and takes what he wants when he wants it, but he is not without a sense of fairness and tenderness. He experiences his own growth arc that is much more subtle, but there is the reader is paying attention. With the narration all on Diana, Ahmed retains some mystery to him until near the end when his friend gives Diana his history that makes him what he is.
So all in all, it was a fabulous experience to return to this story and see it improved in every way as far as I'm concerned. Those who enjoy tempestuous, passionate historical romance in exotic settings should give this one a try.
April 13, 2017
Diana, is a heiress, and has plans for adventure. She was raised practically as a tom boy since her brother raised her when her parents died. Diana doesn't think about consequences or what may happen to her on her planned trip in the desert. On her way to her destination, her group is ambushed and she is captured by the Sheik Abdul. Abdul is bitter against the English, but when he saw Diana at a ball in France, he knew he had to have her. So now after he manipulated and worked his power so he could have Diana in his clutches, he wonders if what he has done is a smart move, when it might cost him his heart. Diana is outraged when she finds herself kidnapped, and is determined to show the Sheik just who he kidnapped. But Abdul is different from any other man, he is fierce and determined and has a cruel shell, but when the passion flares between them, and she starts to lose her heart, she realizes that he is anything but cruel. He is passionate, gentle, and needs love.
Sheik Retold is a retelling of a story by Victoria Vane by the older tale by E.M. Hull that was written in the early 1900's. I never have read the original, but I was very intrigued by this one. So when I saw this one in Netgalley, I knew I needed to try it out. I do love a solid Sheik romance, and I have to say that Victoria Vane did a stellar job. I was a bit worried it would be so modernized but it wasn't in any way. Of course it did have some pros and cons I liked and disliked, but overall a very solid romance story that held me captive from page one.
The story begins with seeing Diana being her spoiled self. I felt at first she was shallow and didn't care about anyone but herself. Then when she gets captured, so many things she did, I just shook my head and said "girl, don't you know anything, you do not bait a tiger!!!) LOL I had quite a few laughs seeing her growing pains. You see her change though from being stuck up and spoiled, to being more of a heroine that you start to admire. You see how she starts to become more gentle, and even though she still has her spirit, she knows what battles to fight and learns to compromise. Abdul, is one sexy hero, that is a bit damaged in a few ways. He is very bitter against the English, and once you understand the reasons, you become more understanding in the reasons why he treats Diana the way he does. In the beginning you don't know whether you love him or hate him. But once it got about a third of the way through, you see so many good qualities that he tries to hide beneath his tough exterior. There is a bit of intensity throughout the story, and I would say this would rank among my favorites as far as desert sheik romances go. I felt like I was right next to these characters, and all the descriptions felt so real to me.
Overall a captivating retelling of a sheik romance that steals your heart. It will put you on edge, and pull you magically into this story of a desert setting, with a sexy yet damaged hero, a heroine who is feisty and strong willed, and a love story that will be instilled in your memory!! A ADVENTURE NOT TO BE MISSED OUT ON!!
Sheik Retold is a retelling of a story by Victoria Vane by the older tale by E.M. Hull that was written in the early 1900's. I never have read the original, but I was very intrigued by this one. So when I saw this one in Netgalley, I knew I needed to try it out. I do love a solid Sheik romance, and I have to say that Victoria Vane did a stellar job. I was a bit worried it would be so modernized but it wasn't in any way. Of course it did have some pros and cons I liked and disliked, but overall a very solid romance story that held me captive from page one.
The story begins with seeing Diana being her spoiled self. I felt at first she was shallow and didn't care about anyone but herself. Then when she gets captured, so many things she did, I just shook my head and said "girl, don't you know anything, you do not bait a tiger!!!) LOL I had quite a few laughs seeing her growing pains. You see her change though from being stuck up and spoiled, to being more of a heroine that you start to admire. You see how she starts to become more gentle, and even though she still has her spirit, she knows what battles to fight and learns to compromise. Abdul, is one sexy hero, that is a bit damaged in a few ways. He is very bitter against the English, and once you understand the reasons, you become more understanding in the reasons why he treats Diana the way he does. In the beginning you don't know whether you love him or hate him. But once it got about a third of the way through, you see so many good qualities that he tries to hide beneath his tough exterior. There is a bit of intensity throughout the story, and I would say this would rank among my favorites as far as desert sheik romances go. I felt like I was right next to these characters, and all the descriptions felt so real to me.
Overall a captivating retelling of a sheik romance that steals your heart. It will put you on edge, and pull you magically into this story of a desert setting, with a sexy yet damaged hero, a heroine who is feisty and strong willed, and a love story that will be instilled in your memory!! A ADVENTURE NOT TO BE MISSED OUT ON!!
September 5, 2013
The Sheik Retold is one hot, romantic, unpredictable, intense and fun read Victoria Vane put out there for us! It’s different from her usual, more sensual and it even has a light touch of BDSM within. A great read for ALL Victoria Vane fans and fans of the genre!
Diane is an independent and adventurous woman. A woman that wants to explore the deserts all on her own. A private adventure for her alone to enjoy. She loves the feeling of being free, running free and not having to rely or listen to any others. She was warned time and time again from her friend and her brother of the dangers she can run into. But none would/could change her mind. Little did she know how right they truly were…
A definite adventure for any reader. All of the words from the pages pull you into the story and hold you there until the very end. This is one of my favorite works from this author to date! 4.5 rounded to a solid 5 rating!
Diane is an independent and adventurous woman. A woman that wants to explore the deserts all on her own. A private adventure for her alone to enjoy. She loves the feeling of being free, running free and not having to rely or listen to any others. She was warned time and time again from her friend and her brother of the dangers she can run into. But none would/could change her mind. Little did she know how right they truly were…
A definite adventure for any reader. All of the words from the pages pull you into the story and hold you there until the very end. This is one of my favorite works from this author to date! 4.5 rounded to a solid 5 rating!
August 11, 2016
Oh my! What a wonderfully told story. Diana was such a strong character. After she decided to give into what was happening, and not look at it like she was a prisoner, she fell in love with not just the Sheikh, but the desert too. And the Shiekh *sigh* he was my kind of hero - dark, brooding and dominate with a hidden softness that only comes out with his woman. The epilogue was just perfect, and I'm not going to say anything else about it so I don't ruin it for you :)
January 5, 2018
umm definitely a one time read and did'nt left an impression on me so not gonna write a long review...
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September 3, 2013
I just have to say that I feel in love with this book. It was a love story old as time but one that anyone would love.
I wasn't sure how to take Diana Mayo at first. She was strong willed and knew that her money could get her everything she wanted except for making her a man. She despises that she is a woman and that men want her for her looks. She just wants to travel the world once she gets away from her half-brother.
Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan has to have Diana and he finds a way. He finds out that her half-brother wants her killed while she is in the dessert. He pays for her and tells her she is now his. He will break her just as he breaks his horses.
I love books with strong alpha-males in them. Ahmed is the man of any woman's dreams that wants a man to be in control. He isn't the bad man that everyone thinks he is. He has a strong and tender side that wants to be loved. He might not show it or admit but it is there.
This is a book that will forever be one of my favorites. I will keep it on my kindle to read it over and over again.
I wasn't sure how to take Diana Mayo at first. She was strong willed and knew that her money could get her everything she wanted except for making her a man. She despises that she is a woman and that men want her for her looks. She just wants to travel the world once she gets away from her half-brother.
Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan has to have Diana and he finds a way. He finds out that her half-brother wants her killed while she is in the dessert. He pays for her and tells her she is now his. He will break her just as he breaks his horses.
I love books with strong alpha-males in them. Ahmed is the man of any woman's dreams that wants a man to be in control. He isn't the bad man that everyone thinks he is. He has a strong and tender side that wants to be loved. He might not show it or admit but it is there.
This is a book that will forever be one of my favorites. I will keep it on my kindle to read it over and over again.
December 15, 2013
I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
WOW! This is a very intense novel. I am grateful the author, Victoria Vane uses The Author’s Note to explain how she is going to give you a less “plodding” pace. How she brought the original story more to life.
Right away you realize the strength of the heroine. She has no soft edges by nurture- her brother who basically raised her. Her arrogance is well earned, sometimes a detriment, and yet her saving grace. Because of her upbringing she does not really think about others and her impact on their lives, she sees others as what they can or cannot do for/to her. This gets her in trouble, but in the end she learns the value of thinking of others.
The hero, although that is not how I thought of him for much of the book, is himself all hard edges by nurture also. He is a hard man toward everyone in his life. He has to be.
This has been a journey complete with shock, awe, tears, fear, anger, jubilation and joy. All of these made it a book that will remain on my re-read shelf.
WOW! This is a very intense novel. I am grateful the author, Victoria Vane uses The Author’s Note to explain how she is going to give you a less “plodding” pace. How she brought the original story more to life.
Right away you realize the strength of the heroine. She has no soft edges by nurture- her brother who basically raised her. Her arrogance is well earned, sometimes a detriment, and yet her saving grace. Because of her upbringing she does not really think about others and her impact on their lives, she sees others as what they can or cannot do for/to her. This gets her in trouble, but in the end she learns the value of thinking of others.
The hero, although that is not how I thought of him for much of the book, is himself all hard edges by nurture also. He is a hard man toward everyone in his life. He has to be.
This has been a journey complete with shock, awe, tears, fear, anger, jubilation and joy. All of these made it a book that will remain on my re-read shelf.
September 3, 2013
This book was SOMETHING! I enjoyed reading this book and loved it. It was an awesome book to read! Diana Mayo is a woman who never knew the pleasure to be a woman, disliked her womanhood, excellent in shooting and riding. But one day when she was kidnapped by Sheik Ahmed Ben Hassan, how he controlled her, made her aware of her beauty and feminism and for the first time in life, she feels alive. The page sizzles when they are together. At first, you'll think Ahmed is a cold hearted bastard but in fact he is trying to distance his emotions and not to get too close. But Diana warmed up into his heart and him to hers. It was pure romantic historical story. I loved everything about the book, the desert, the French and Arabic language. It was very different and fun book to read!
June 29, 2015
This book was a roller coaster of emotions. I went from feeling excitement, despair, fear, love, and so forth! I laughed a few scenes and even cried at a couple and cringed at others. This book was by far better than I had hoped!
"On the contrary, my gazelle, I do. I exchanged a large sum in gold with your would-be murderer. I bought your life. You are mine to do with as I wish." ~ Ahmed
Diana ~ She was spitfire and feisty as can be for a young lady in her day and age! She was so stubborn it almost cost her, her life on a few occasions. But she was a gem among stones, and whoever had the will to tame her was going to have a well deserved fight on his hands! I loved how she fought against Ahmed so much, it made for a very intriguing story.
"No! I will not spare you. Give me what I want willingly and I will be kind to you, but fight me, and by Allah, you shall pay the cost…! I know you hate me. You have told me so already. Shall I make you love me?" ~ Ahmed
Ahmed ~ He was just what Diana needed even though neither expected what grew between them. He keeps his true self so at bay but at the same time he is very easy to read through his eyes! But he proved what she meant to him a few occasions. The old saying came true on his part 'sometimes when you love someone, the best thing you can do for them is to let them go. if they come back its meant to be and if don't ……'
"Bonne nuit et doux rêves, ma chérie." ~ Ahmed
Overall I absolutely loved this book. The characters were well-developed as was the emotions and the connections you can't help but feel towards the characters! I do believe everyone would love this story!
Till next time ~ Sweets Books
September 30, 2013
Pure sexy escapism! The original The Sheik, published in 1919 by E.M. Hull, was wildly popular in its day, and the 1921 film made a star of Rudolph Valentino. But the story needed updating for 21st century audiences and Victoria Vane stepped up to the challenge. Vane is one of my favorite romance authors. Her sex scenes are classy, not trashy, and character development is always strong in her novels. In The Sheik Retold, rich Englishwoman Diana Mayo embarks on an ill-advised expedition of the Algerian desert, where she is immediately kidnapped by Sheik Ahmed Ben Assan, who wants her for his own! (lots of sighs here!) Quote: "I told myself I was only too weary to fight him, but the truth was that his all-out sensual assault had made me a victim of my own senses - of my own suppressed nature. And now awakened, I was starving for more." But The Sheik Retold is much more--there's warring factions, adventure, manipulative plots, beautiful descriptions of the desert landscape, 1920s era clothes, drink, and tobacco! I am willing to overlook the somewhat abrupt ending to revel in the lushness of the rest of the story.
October 3, 2013
I've read Vane's books before and fell in love with them. She has a knack for creating memorable characters that are easy to relate to. It's no surprise that I loved The Sheik Retold. I didn't read the original version by E.M. Hull, so I have no comparison.
Diana is a no worry heiress who wants to go on an adventure in the desert. The time is around the nineteen twenties and the story is set in Africa. She's warned that she should be careful and take more than just a guide, but she's stubborn and determined to show that she can take care of herself.
Then she is taken captive by a sheik, Ahmed. Ahmed is a man's man and does what he wants, when he wants. He makes his own rules and bends to know one. He wants Diana and makes no pretense about it. He is a fair man though, and Diana does some growing up quick. There are some sizzling hot love scenes as well as beautiful depictions of the time and place. If you enjoy memorable, sizzling hot, page-turning romance, you'll definitely want to pick up The Sheik Retold!
Diana is a no worry heiress who wants to go on an adventure in the desert. The time is around the nineteen twenties and the story is set in Africa. She's warned that she should be careful and take more than just a guide, but she's stubborn and determined to show that she can take care of herself.
Then she is taken captive by a sheik, Ahmed. Ahmed is a man's man and does what he wants, when he wants. He makes his own rules and bends to know one. He wants Diana and makes no pretense about it. He is a fair man though, and Diana does some growing up quick. There are some sizzling hot love scenes as well as beautiful depictions of the time and place. If you enjoy memorable, sizzling hot, page-turning romance, you'll definitely want to pick up The Sheik Retold!
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