What do you think?
Rate this book
Unbidden
When the emperor chooses a husband for Rochelle, she tries to drive her betrothed away. By the time she realizes she might want to keep him, she has been too successful, and other forces are dividing them as well. A whirling romance in the enchanting world of Charlemagne’s Empire. Rochelle of Alda, a feisty Frank noblewoman, expects to continue her industrious life managing her family’s estate. When her emperor summons her to the palace to meet the skilled soldier she is required to marry for political reasons, Rochelle quickly engages in a battle for independence from David of Bavaria. Even as her own deceptions multiply she suspects another of also plotting against their marriage. To her surprise, and too late, David’s passion and patience begin to win her heart. Can their love survive the tangled web of her schemes and the secret adversary David refuses to see? Book One in the Evolution Series.
262 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
21 people are currently reading
222 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
not-finished
June 14, 2022I can't finish this book. Maybe I'll try again at some point, but not today. I reached close to page 300 of an 800+ book.
The speech is modern, the ideas of the heroine extremely modern and quite honestly I feel that the author chose the wrong era for her book. If I remember the year should be somewhere in the 800's, but it feels like we should be a lot farther along the timeline.
The romance was quite fun and the concept great - so I was willing to go along with it for a bit. The book, however, continues with that modern feel and this romance could easily be placed anywhere as the surroundings aren't fleshed out. Now the story is becoming somewhat predictable and I'm afraid if I don't stop now, I'll end up hating this book.
The speech is modern, the ideas of the heroine extremely modern and quite honestly I feel that the author chose the wrong era for her book. If I remember the year should be somewhere in the 800's, but it feels like we should be a lot farther along the timeline.
The romance was quite fun and the concept great - so I was willing to go along with it for a bit. The book, however, continues with that modern feel and this romance could easily be placed anywhere as the surroundings aren't fleshed out. Now the story is becoming somewhat predictable and I'm afraid if I don't stop now, I'll end up hating this book.
February 10, 2012
I enjoyed reading about a time in medieval history that not many romance authors address.It was interesting to find out about Louis the Pious and the workings of the Holy Roman Empire after Charlemagne.
I loved the hero David and the way the author portrayed his strengths and vulnerabilities.
I loved the hero David and the way the author portrayed his strengths and vulnerabilities.
February 5, 2014
After reading my first book from Jill Hughey, Vain (the third book in the series), and thoroughly enjoying it I didn’t hesitate to pick up the first book of the Evolution Series. Not only is the writing wonderful with characters that are very likeable and charismatic, but the series itself is set in a time period that isn’t highlighted very often in books. As a lover of historical fiction, this just adds to its entertainment factor. As I found in Hughey’s other book, Unbidden provided a great story about love, trust and loyalty between 2 strong willed and independent people.
I appreciated how the book took the time to develop the relationship and love between Rochelle and David. There have been books that I’ve read where the main couple just fell in love overnight without truly establishing the steps it took for them to get where they were. It made their relationship less credible which took away from the story. In this book however, you read the changes that David and especially Rochelle undergo the more they spent time with each other. It’s a gradual shift from where they started and considering Louis basically commanded Rochelle to marry David or lose her home it really was a big hill to climb. But that was what made the book so enjoyable. I loved reading the growing bond between them and how miscommunication, distrust and fear almost brought them to the brink of disaster only to have these conflicts strengthen their love.
David and Rochelle were just great characters whom you can both cheer for and also become exasperated with. They each had their own traits that made them strong on their own but also made them compatible with each other. Plus, they each had their own faults that contributed to their relationship almost falling apart. They both carry some burden of culpability in what happened.
In David you find a strong, honorable, and caring man who wants a place to call home and a family to go along with it. You can admire his patience and persistence in his wooing of Rochelle even amongst her multiple denials about marriage to him. He can be so loyal, in fact even loyal to a fault which can turn against his favor especially regarding his older brother Doeg. David was a great leading man with an attractive combination of charisma and alpha male soldier.
Rochelle is a female lead that you come to respect in how she takes responsibility for running her estate and being the leader amongst her tenants. She has a strong sense of independence bordering on being stubborn. The change in heart that occurs with her really pushes the story. It was interesting to read how she matures from the female fiercely refusing to marry against her wishes to a woman who learns the benefits of having a loving partner in her life without having to compromise her stature as leader in her estate. She can make like her one minute and become frustrated with her the next.
I have to give a special shout out to Theophilus or Theo. I was first introduced to him in Vain which I read before this book even though it was the third installment in the series. It was great seeing him in a different context than what I remembered from in his book. I really liked him in his role as best friend to David. I enjoyed their camaraderie and the times when Theo had to get in his face to see how foolish David is behaving. I liked seeing Theo in a more relaxed and supportive state. It gave me another picture of who he is on top of the man I read in Vain.
Unbidden was a very enjoyable read for me. The story was well crafted, taking the time to develop the relationship between David and Rochelle. It was flirty, passionate, conflicting and frustrating. I liked how Doeg’s story was introduced into this first book with his scheming against his brother. It served to both add another layer to David’s story and to set the tone for the second book focusing on Doeg’s redemption. Since I’ve enjoyed the other 2 books of the series, it would stand to reason that I will look to read the second book of the series. I have no doubt that it will provide me with an enthralling story just as the previous books have done.
I appreciated how the book took the time to develop the relationship and love between Rochelle and David. There have been books that I’ve read where the main couple just fell in love overnight without truly establishing the steps it took for them to get where they were. It made their relationship less credible which took away from the story. In this book however, you read the changes that David and especially Rochelle undergo the more they spent time with each other. It’s a gradual shift from where they started and considering Louis basically commanded Rochelle to marry David or lose her home it really was a big hill to climb. But that was what made the book so enjoyable. I loved reading the growing bond between them and how miscommunication, distrust and fear almost brought them to the brink of disaster only to have these conflicts strengthen their love.
David and Rochelle were just great characters whom you can both cheer for and also become exasperated with. They each had their own traits that made them strong on their own but also made them compatible with each other. Plus, they each had their own faults that contributed to their relationship almost falling apart. They both carry some burden of culpability in what happened.
In David you find a strong, honorable, and caring man who wants a place to call home and a family to go along with it. You can admire his patience and persistence in his wooing of Rochelle even amongst her multiple denials about marriage to him. He can be so loyal, in fact even loyal to a fault which can turn against his favor especially regarding his older brother Doeg. David was a great leading man with an attractive combination of charisma and alpha male soldier.
Rochelle is a female lead that you come to respect in how she takes responsibility for running her estate and being the leader amongst her tenants. She has a strong sense of independence bordering on being stubborn. The change in heart that occurs with her really pushes the story. It was interesting to read how she matures from the female fiercely refusing to marry against her wishes to a woman who learns the benefits of having a loving partner in her life without having to compromise her stature as leader in her estate. She can make like her one minute and become frustrated with her the next.
I have to give a special shout out to Theophilus or Theo. I was first introduced to him in Vain which I read before this book even though it was the third installment in the series. It was great seeing him in a different context than what I remembered from in his book. I really liked him in his role as best friend to David. I enjoyed their camaraderie and the times when Theo had to get in his face to see how foolish David is behaving. I liked seeing Theo in a more relaxed and supportive state. It gave me another picture of who he is on top of the man I read in Vain.
Unbidden was a very enjoyable read for me. The story was well crafted, taking the time to develop the relationship between David and Rochelle. It was flirty, passionate, conflicting and frustrating. I liked how Doeg’s story was introduced into this first book with his scheming against his brother. It served to both add another layer to David’s story and to set the tone for the second book focusing on Doeg’s redemption. Since I’ve enjoyed the other 2 books of the series, it would stand to reason that I will look to read the second book of the series. I have no doubt that it will provide me with an enthralling story just as the previous books have done.
August 26, 2016
AudioBook Review:
Stars: Overall 3 Narration 3 Story 2
There is a curious mix and mismatch here: the story is set in Charlemagne’s time, yet language, approach and society are all far more modern in feel, use and approach. While Hughey wrote a passably interesting, if slow paced and meandering story, the lack of adherence to even the most simplistic historical conventions are off putting and had me confused as to her intention: was she planning on a historic, or a fantasy type read with historic elements. What ended up happening is my focus was more interested in ferreting out the intention of the author, while large passages were static or meandered without apparent point, rather than paying close attention to plot or action.
Unfortunately, by the time I was at the point to form an impression about the character’s connection or their trials, dredging up emotional reactions to them was difficult, if not impossible, as the large passages of the information did nothing to establish them firmly in my head. Rochelle and David were formulaic and felt familiar yet uninspired.
Narration is provided by Kevin Scollin and he did the best job possible with text that was less than helpful in cues and clues for emotional emphasis. Not overreaching or overly emoted, his performance was the best thing about this production. I did, however, note passages from him where the lack of forward plot motion or inspiration was evident, not unexpected in a recording of nearly 13 hours.
What looked to be a promising story with plenty to love was disappointing, the best discovery was the narrator.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title from the author via AudioBook Jukebox for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Stars: Overall 3 Narration 3 Story 2
There is a curious mix and mismatch here: the story is set in Charlemagne’s time, yet language, approach and society are all far more modern in feel, use and approach. While Hughey wrote a passably interesting, if slow paced and meandering story, the lack of adherence to even the most simplistic historical conventions are off putting and had me confused as to her intention: was she planning on a historic, or a fantasy type read with historic elements. What ended up happening is my focus was more interested in ferreting out the intention of the author, while large passages were static or meandered without apparent point, rather than paying close attention to plot or action.
Unfortunately, by the time I was at the point to form an impression about the character’s connection or their trials, dredging up emotional reactions to them was difficult, if not impossible, as the large passages of the information did nothing to establish them firmly in my head. Rochelle and David were formulaic and felt familiar yet uninspired.
Narration is provided by Kevin Scollin and he did the best job possible with text that was less than helpful in cues and clues for emotional emphasis. Not overreaching or overly emoted, his performance was the best thing about this production. I did, however, note passages from him where the lack of forward plot motion or inspiration was evident, not unexpected in a recording of nearly 13 hours.
What looked to be a promising story with plenty to love was disappointing, the best discovery was the narrator.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title from the author via AudioBook Jukebox for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
June 14, 2015
When Emperor Louis of France decrees that Rochelle of Alda will marry the Bavarian warrior David, Rochelle is on the brink of defying him—and in the process losing everything. After meeting David, however, she begins to develop a grudging affection. Just when she realizes that she loves him, though, events conspire to threaten their relationship.
Unbidden by Jill Hughey is the first book in the Evolution Series. It introduces a rich cast of characters from the period of the early French empire, complete with complex histories and psychologies, contributing to a fascinating tale. We meet Rochelle, in charge of her estate after the death of her father, and unaccustomed to being under the control of any man; David, a warrior who must come to terms with the tender feelings Rochelle evokes; David’s brother Doeg, who has his own demons to contend with; and Theophilus, on the surface a dandy who also once loved Rochelle, but has conceded the field to his best friend.
You’ll read with rapt interest as Rochelle and David grow to love and respect each other, bite your nails as their love is threatened by Rochelle’s impetuous act, and cheer as they grope for each other in the dark—quite literally. This story had a bit of everything. Nicely inserted historical and cultural details for the lovers of history, a bit of mystery and suspense, and a couple of hot, but tastefully done, flesh on flesh scenes.
A great summer read.
Unbidden by Jill Hughey is the first book in the Evolution Series. It introduces a rich cast of characters from the period of the early French empire, complete with complex histories and psychologies, contributing to a fascinating tale. We meet Rochelle, in charge of her estate after the death of her father, and unaccustomed to being under the control of any man; David, a warrior who must come to terms with the tender feelings Rochelle evokes; David’s brother Doeg, who has his own demons to contend with; and Theophilus, on the surface a dandy who also once loved Rochelle, but has conceded the field to his best friend.
You’ll read with rapt interest as Rochelle and David grow to love and respect each other, bite your nails as their love is threatened by Rochelle’s impetuous act, and cheer as they grope for each other in the dark—quite literally. This story had a bit of everything. Nicely inserted historical and cultural details for the lovers of history, a bit of mystery and suspense, and a couple of hot, but tastefully done, flesh on flesh scenes.
A great summer read.
May 8, 2013
This historical romance featured a feisty heroine, Rochelle, who was determined not to be tied down in matrimony though she was attracted to David, a warrior whom she was ordered to marry. Even though she was determined not to marry, she was tender and kind to David who lacked the warmth of the family and readily tended to him when he suffered from debilitating headaches. Rochelle had demonstrated her independence in managing her estate but she still sought the security, protection and warmth offered by David. Their relationship was not smooth sailing and there were wrenches thrown by external parties. In addition to the romance, there was also the mystery surrounding David’s family.
April 16, 2013
I loved all three books in the Evolution series. Beautiful writing, interesting characters, and great stories.
The best kind of series. Each book stands on its own, but is enriched by the others. All three are love stories, yet each is completely unique. I fell in in love with Unbidden's Rochelle and David in the first pages, and loved them to the end.
The best kind of series. Each book stands on its own, but is enriched by the others. All three are love stories, yet each is completely unique. I fell in in love with Unbidden's Rochelle and David in the first pages, and loved them to the end.
February 16, 2014
After 15 days of trying, I have put aside this one. Got only to chapter twelve. The writing doesn't fit the time. To modern for the century (800/900). The only old word up to date in it is "ye" And it drags not captivating enough.
To bad cause I do love medieval times, the story could be very interesting.
To bad cause I do love medieval times, the story could be very interesting.
September 10, 2014
TRUE LOVE WINS IN THE END
The setting is in the year 893, however the problems this lovers face happens even now. The author explains everything happening so vivid making that you are there. During the Tournament I could see the knights fighting to win at all cost. I enjoyed reading this particular book even tho love scenes were not too descriptive but genuine.
The setting is in the year 893, however the problems this lovers face happens even now. The author explains everything happening so vivid making that you are there. During the Tournament I could see the knights fighting to win at all cost. I enjoyed reading this particular book even tho love scenes were not too descriptive but genuine.
February 1, 2014
A good mix of tender and tough love with a hint if spice. I think this us a good. Relaxing read and am interested to see how the other characters fare in books two and three... It is a bit long winded at times though.
April 21, 2014
Was kind if slow to grasp at the start, But i fell in love with Rochelle and David. Humorous,Frustrating,Excitement and a couple OMG moments! Great Read considering I'm not a big romance reader. The historical fiction is what caught my eye. But I do believe this book has opened a new genre for me
January 7, 2014
This is the type of story I enjoy reading. A reluctant damsel and a good man to romance her. I'd read more of this series.....
May 11, 2014
Too graphic. No thanks
September 25, 2015
A good story about regret and redemption. The characters were well developed and their behavior to situations were realistic and in accordance with their pasts and personalities.
April 17, 2015
3.5. The ending was a but unrealistic and one dimensional.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews