Veena’s review of Lost to the Desert Warrior by Sarah Morgan
Contemporary Romance published by HQN 20 Aug 13

This book appears to be a typical hot desert romance with a handsome sheikh and a shy virgin, but as I found when I actually got between the pages, there is a lot more to it than that.

Layla is a poor little rich girl, born a princess and raised in a palace, her life hardly a bed of roses. Upon her father’s death, she takes the reins in her hands and goes out to seek her father’s enemy, whom she believes will be the savior of her beloved kingdom.

Raz has his own burdens, but determined to do the right thing for his country he marries Layla to achieve a bloodless coup. Unfortunately, or should I say fortunately, he finds the lovely Layla quickly burrows beneath his armor and works her way into his heart. He discovers all his preconceived notions of rich princesses being raised in the lap of luxury quickly overturned when the horrific reality of Layla’s childhood comes to light.

The author has done a terrific job with the characters she’s created for Raz and Layla. They immediately captured my emotions and got me invested in the story. Layla’s attempts to learn and prepare for the marriage bed by reading the Kama Sutra are really cute, as is Raz’s reaction and response to her approach. When Layla reveals some of the horrible realities of her childhood, Raz’s determination to protect her are very heart warming.

All in all, a very enjoyable twist to a desert romance. I would really enjoy visiting these two characters again if the author writes a sequel featuring Raz’s brother and Layla’s sister.
Grade: B

Summary:

“Walking into the lion’s den unprotected, Princess?”

For Layla, princess of Tazkhan, her arranged marriage means one thing—a lifetime of cruelty and captivity. Such an unendurable prospect drives her to throw herself at the mercy of Sheikh Raz Al Zahki—her family’s greatest enemy!

Raz demands one thing in return for the safe haven Layla is seeking—this brooding desert king wants to make her his queen! Her freedom might be secured, but now her heart is at risk, for soon she’s lost to the scorching heat of their marriage bed. However, it will take more than fire to thaw her guarded husband….

Read an excerpt.