Colonial Americans faced a massive challenge in their bid for freedom from British rule, but in this creative twist on a theme we get to see how the American Revolution actually saved the world from vampiric domination.
The overview
“Rebel Heart is the second in author Clara Winter’s Immortal Kindred series, in which we meet a strong, independent woman working as a Culper spy in revolutionary America. She’s a patriot to the core, willing to do whatever is necessary to ensure the success of the cause. The only problem is, she’s been caught.
Double-crossed by a contact and taken prisoner by Hessian soldiers, our heroine Annie stands very little chance of a positive outcome. At least until Thayer, the captain of the camp, shows mercy by helping her escape.
The two are inextricably drawn to one another but bound by their allegiances. The thing that causes more trouble for the pair, though, is Annie’s suspicion of Thayer’s seemingly super-human strength and capabilities. When she makes a new friend who she finds out is a vampire, all the pieces fall into place.
One might think the whole immortal blood-sucker thing a bit of a deterrent for Annie in these relationships, but on the contrary, she sees a valuable opportunity. Vampires fighting on the British side put the Americans at a decided disadvantage, but If she can gain the strength and enhanced senses her friend displays, she might be able to give her side a fighting chance… and her heart the hope of seeing Thayer again.
My Thoughts
I loved this interesting take on the theme. The biggest challenge in writing historical fiction is maintaining accuracy, and Winter does a great job of adding in new characters and conflicts without distorting the timeline of what we already know. She creates a wartime sub-plot of vampires siding with the British in order to keep their food supply complacent and compliant, but is able to convincingly explain how that plan is thwarted.
The author also does a seamless job of meshing past and present with a swap to present day at the end. This was one thing I enjoyed from the first book, which spent roughly equal time in late 18th century France and modern day Savannah. This book stays almost entirely in revolutionary America, but connects to events of the first book toward the end, which helps to reinforce the series themes and story line.
I also enjoy Winter’s ability to keep things succinct without losing any of the story. I notice this in particular with action scenes and love scenes, she doesn’t get long-winded with description. The writing is minimalistic, but never leaves you feeling as though you missed something. This great pacing makes the book an excellent choice for a quick read, it keeps you engaged and turning pages.
Do I recommend this book?
Definitely yes. While I enjoy the occasional paranormal romance, my main love is historical, so this series is a perfect combination for me. At just over 200 pages, this is also an excellent choice for a faster read when I haven’t got either the time or energy to start in on a multi-day longer read. When combined with the just-right pacing and intriguing characters, this book is a must.
A note about our hero
I haven’t mentioned Thayer much because our main starlet is Annie and her cause, but I know romance readers are always on the lookout for a hero they can fall in love with, so here’s what I can say without giving too much away:
Thayer is a trained soldier whose only purpose is to do the bidding of his leader, often necessitating ugly actions. Yet, we see right away how strongly Annie has affected him in his willingness to put his command on the line by helping her escape. As his caring for her grows, we see him begin to question his role and longstanding beliefs, until he’s finally faced with making an immortal-life altering sacrifice in the name of love.
From my perspective, this hero is definitely capable of melting hearts.
The official info
I hope you enjoyed my brief review of this book, please let me know if you pick it up and what you think of it!
Rebel Heart by Clara Winter
Always and Forever
Annie is a Culper Spy captured by Hessian soldiers. Powerful and mysterious Captain Thayer Emmerich takes mercy and releases her. Annie is inexplicably drawn to the handsome German, but she hates the feeling of powerlessness the enemy has left her with. Annie would give anything to be stronger.
One evening at the famous Green Dragon Tavern, Annie befriends the ethereal Millicent. Soon after meeting Millicent, Annie discovers her secret–her new friend isn’t human. Millicent introduces Annie to her maker, Alexandre, and Annie joins their preternatural family.Annie finally has the strength and freedom she needs to aid the revolution and see Thayer, once again.
The two discover a passion neither has known before. But, too many complications exist for the pair to find happily ever after. Not only are they fighting on opposite sides of the war, the evil Emilia Romanov has plans for Thayer that do not include a love affair.
Rebel Heart is set in 18th century Boston and Savannah, as well as modern day Germany and France. This is the second book in The Immortal Kindred Series.