Author: Julie Daines
Genres: Speculative Romance
Format: eBook, Print
Pages: 224
Date: August 1, 2015
Publisher: Covenant
Eleanor de Lacy has been bartered: her hand in marriage in exchange for a truce with her father’s sworn enemy. Now the headstrong beauty must leave her ancestral home and the man she secretly loves to become the wife of the infamous Welsh King Brach Goch. Tales of this cruel leader paint a chilling picture of a ruthless warrior—all Eleanor knows for certain is that he is the villain responsible for the vicious attacks on her people and the death of her beloved brother. Though she must marry against her will, she vows Brach Goch will never possess her heart.
Her arrival at the inhospitable castle Bryn Du confirms her worst fears—a ghost walks the halls of the castle, and Eleanor receives an ominous warning from the uneasy spirit: Brach is not to be trusted. Though resigned to a life of misery, Eleanor soon realizes all is not as it seems, for Brach is not the monster she dreaded but is a handsome and charming man whose gentle ways soon undermine his bride’s resolve to lock her heart. Clinging desperately to her pride, Eleanor finds herself trapped in a web of murder and deceit. And as the lines between good and evil become blurred, Eleanor must decide for herself who is to be trusted—and loved.
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I lovedlovedloved this book! Julie’s writing is clean and intriguing and full of twists and tension. Did I mention that I loved it?
Loved this! I loved the premise of this story – a girl being sent off to marry the “enemy” king and trying to figure out who to trust and believe. I loved watching the growth of Eleanor – at times I just wanted to shake some sense into her, but I could see how her upbringing would influence her decisions. There was an element of magic in the story, but it wasn’t the main focus. This is one I stayed up way too late to finish – thoroughly enjoyed it!
I loved this book! The setting was amazing, I felt like I was there in the castle and mountainous woodlands. Eleanor is a strong young woman, but helpless in her role as political pawn. She’s an interesting mix of independence and submissiveness. Her choices and reactions were not predictable, yet offered insight to her character. She is loyal and kindhearted, feisty and impulsive. Her skills with healing herbs are an invaluable asset to those around her in a time of limited medical knowledge, and it helps her make some new friends that ease the loneliness of her new home. Brac is also a study in contrasting characteristics- unyielding and compassionate, arrogant and teasing. The gentleness and humor confuses Eleanor since it’s not only unexpected, she has never experienced that with her own father/king. It was endearing to see him try to connect with Eleanor even when she wanted nothing to do with him. I could not put the book down as Eleanor learns little by little that not all is as it seems or as she had been told and she no longer knows who to trust, except by instinct. The romantic moments between Brac and Eleanor develop naturally and enhance the emotion of the plot. The creepy phantom adds heightened tension and an element of fantasy but it blends seamlessly with the world the author has created. The pacing is steady throughout and climaxes in a battle where all is finally revealed. I highly recommend this novel and look forward to reading more by the author!
I absolutely loved this book! The character development was spot on! Eleanor is a very strong independent women stuck between saving a kingdom and saving her heart. Throughout the book, she demonstrates values that matter most, such as courage, love, compassion, and will. Brac is set up to seem a cold hearted monster, but soon shows his compassion and leadership to his heart. The set up of this novel was entertaining, and well worded. I would definitely recommend this book and the author!