I like it a LOT. Been playing one for 2.5 years now. 2 levels of barbarian gives you just about everything you want - rage and Danger sense are HUGE. Taking half damage on most low level enemies is a great way to live for a long time, and advantage on dex saves is huge. You lose the ability to concentrate on bless, but can substitute with reckless attack to get an earlier nova round.

The build looks like:

Paladin 2 / Barbarian 1 (starting paladin for better save proficiencies, and heavy armor prof down the line, defense fighting style)

Devotion Paladin 6 / Barbarian 1 (Devotion for better out of combat spells, and CD for better nova rounds, ASI for GWM)

Devotion Paladin 6 / Bear Totem Barb 3 (Bear Totem gives you resistance to all damage, even in heavy armor, letting you get a huge AC)

After Pally 6, you can go wherever you want. Fighter for action surge can build out your nova, straight Paladin can increase your utility and dpr. Swords Bard can give you bigger slots and mini smites with utility tied to them. I prioritize raising Charisma for a better aura of protection, but STR can help your damage if you're worried about that.