Today, I’m reviewing Sacrifice and Reward, book one in the Paha Sapa Saga, a historical romance by Robin Deeter.
Title: Sacrifice and Reward
Series: Paha Sapa Saga, Book 1
Author: Robin Deeter
Genre: Historical Romance
Publisher: Word Mine Publishing
Publication Date: August 31, 2016
Word Count: 230 Pages
Which will be the victor: hatred or love?
Blurb: Mid-18th century North America is a hotbed of unrest between many Native American tribes, who are feuding over territory. By this time, most of the Kiowa bands have been pushed west by the Lakota, who are on the move southward from the Great Lakes region. These invaders from the north want the game-rich, lush pasture lands of the territory for themselves.
However, one small Kiowa band is determined to remain in their early homelands in the region of what will be one day known as eastern South Dakota. These two enemy tribes are brought face-to-face through the vision of a young Kiowa medicine man.
Sky Dancer, a beautiful, Kiowa widow, and proud Lakota warrior, Dark Horse, are forced to marry in order to create an alliance between their peoples. Right from the beginning they clash in a test of wills, loathing each other on sight, making a happy marriage seem out of the question.
Will the sacrifice that is asked of them save their tribes? Can these two enemies overcome their initial hatred to find love in unlikely place or will distrust keep them from the reward they both crave?
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This is my first time reading anything by the author and I must say I really enjoyed the first novel of the Paha Sapa Saga. As stated in the blurb, the Lakota and Kiowa need to form an alliance because the Ojibway are closing in on their territory. In numbers, they might stand a chance to save their homeland. I must say, being Ojibway, I enjoyed catching a glimpse of them in the novel. Anyhoo, back to the review.
I really liked Sky Dancer. It was refreshing to meet a widowed woman who is still deeply grieving for the loss of her husband and daughter. I can only imagine the pain she suffered, and this come through in the novel. Two big losses. Two of the most important people in her life.
Dark Horse is the Lakota warrior who must wed Sky Dancer. He is very reluctant to do so, but his honour demands he see the marriage through. Well done. His struggle comes through between his own wants and his duty to his people.
There are other secondary characters introduced. At first I was overwhelmed by everyone and had a hard time keeping track of each person. But halfway through the novel, I was able to finally understand who was who, based on their personalities that came through strong and clear.
There are side stories going on that shift away from the romance of Sky Dancer and Dark Horse. These were interesting and well done, but I must say I would have preferred to see the author concentrate on the starring couple. Still, it was nice to see Cricket get some page time.
The scenery is nicely described. The dialogue is realistic for people who speak different languages. And the research is spot on. A reader is given the information they need with minimal exposition. That is how I like to read historical romance.
The story does slow in a few places because of the secondary characters, but this is still a great read. The chemistry between Dark Horse and Sky Dancer is a lovely build-up of reluctance, fear, and desire.
This is a wonderful novel, and one I recommend.
Have you read Sacrifice and Reward? If so, do you agree with my review? If you haven’t read the book, would you be willing to now?
Maggie Blackbird 