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Vengeance Trilogy #3
Believe in Me
Medieval Romance
Lady Cristiana’s plan to seek revenge against her mother’s murderer is cut short when a world-weary knight arrives to escort her to her new guardian, a powerful bishop. Cristiana refuses to become a ward of the bishop whom she suspects was involved in her mother’s death, but the knight leaves her no choice.
Sir William de Bremont hopes to earn a second chance at the life he was given but believes he doesn’t deserve. Serving the bishop seems the perfect solution, except Lady Cristiana thwarts him at every turn, captivating him body and soul.
Cristiana has the unique ability to heal the sick through her touch. Accustomed to hiding her gift, the wall she’s built to protect herself crumbles under William’s passionate regard. Honor-bound to deliver her despite her protests and his own doubts, William reluctantly fulfills his vow only to realize the depth of his mistake.
As William and Cristiana’s love grows, they realize the bishop plans to use her ability to fulfill his own destiny with little concern for the life of others, including Cristiana’s. The bishop’s treachery comes to light, forcing Cristiana to choose between revenge or the love of a lifetime.
Lady Cristiana’s plan to seek revenge against her mother’s murderer is cut short when a world-weary knight arrives to escort her to her new guardian, a powerful bishop. Cristiana refuses to become a ward of the bishop whom she suspects was involved in her mother’s death, but the knight leaves her no choice.
Sir William de Bremont hopes to earn a second chance at the life he was given but believes he doesn’t deserve. Serving the bishop seems the perfect solution, except Lady Cristiana thwarts him at every turn, captivating him body and soul.
Cristiana has the unique ability to heal the sick through her touch. Accustomed to hiding her gift, the wall she’s built to protect herself crumbles under William’s passionate regard. Honor-bound to deliver her despite her protests and his own doubts, William reluctantly fulfills his vow only to realize the depth of his mistake.
As William and Cristiana’s love grows, they realize the bishop plans to use her ability to fulfill his own destiny with little concern for the life of others, including Cristiana’s. The bishop’s treachery comes to light, forcing Cristiana to choose between revenge or the love of a lifetime.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 8, 2013
27 people are currently reading
569 people want to read
About the author
Lana Williams
93 books377 followersLana Williams is the USA Today Bestselling and Amazon All-Star Author of over 55 historical fiction novels filled with mystery, romance, adventure, and sometimes a pinch of paranormal to stir things up.
She spends her days in Victorian, Regency, and Medieval times, depending on her mood and current deadline.
Lana calls the Rocky Mountains of Colorado home where she lives with her husband and a spoiled rescue dog named Sadie. Connect with her at https://lanawilliams.net/, find her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lanawilliamsbooks, or on IG @authorlanawilliams.
She spends her days in Victorian, Regency, and Medieval times, depending on her mood and current deadline.
Lana calls the Rocky Mountains of Colorado home where she lives with her husband and a spoiled rescue dog named Sadie. Connect with her at https://lanawilliams.net/, find her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lanawilliamsbooks, or on IG @authorlanawilliams.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
September 18, 2013
3 and 1/2 Stars - Leisurely paced medieval with a paranormal twist
This is book 3 of the Vengeance Trilogy. As I have not read the first two, I cannot say how this one compares. I could tell by references to other couples that there were prior books but the story can be read as a stand alone.
Set in England in 1268, it tells of Lady Cristiana Ormond, who has a miraculous gift of healing, and Sir William de Bremont, a mercenary knight working for Bishop Thomas Duval. Sir William is sent to escort Cristiana from the Sisters of the Convent of Saint Gabriel to Longsbury Cathedral where she is to become the ward of Bishop Duval. But Cristiana resists as her only priority is to find the man who murdered her mother. Because of things her mother told her, she suspects the bishop was involved.
The story is well written and the love between the two believable, but the pace was slowed considerably by an excess of introspection. Sir William seemed a worthy knight though his early moves on Cristiana had me wondering about his vows of chivalry. Still, this is romance and for all his pressing kisses upon her, he was protective. For those who love history in their historical romance, there is little here, but there is a good medieval feel. Then, too, there is the paranormal element of the miraculous healing gift. I did not find that distracting though it was central to all that happened.
The use of first names at times made it seem modern to me. I would have preferred it more as it would have been in the 13th century. (Except possibly between the two knights who were close friends, it would not be William, but Sir William (which was used only a few times). And Sir Henry Postel, would not be “Henry,” but Sir Henry. The Abbott also called the bishop by his first name, which seemed odd.)
One other minor thing: The Bible does not suggest “an eye for an eye,” as the heroine tells the abbess, but rather the opposite: “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.” (Jesus in Matthew) Cristiana might have been ignorant, but the abbess, to whom the words were spoken, certainly wasn’t yet she did not correct Cristiana.
This is book 3 of the Vengeance Trilogy. As I have not read the first two, I cannot say how this one compares. I could tell by references to other couples that there were prior books but the story can be read as a stand alone.
Set in England in 1268, it tells of Lady Cristiana Ormond, who has a miraculous gift of healing, and Sir William de Bremont, a mercenary knight working for Bishop Thomas Duval. Sir William is sent to escort Cristiana from the Sisters of the Convent of Saint Gabriel to Longsbury Cathedral where she is to become the ward of Bishop Duval. But Cristiana resists as her only priority is to find the man who murdered her mother. Because of things her mother told her, she suspects the bishop was involved.
The story is well written and the love between the two believable, but the pace was slowed considerably by an excess of introspection. Sir William seemed a worthy knight though his early moves on Cristiana had me wondering about his vows of chivalry. Still, this is romance and for all his pressing kisses upon her, he was protective. For those who love history in their historical romance, there is little here, but there is a good medieval feel. Then, too, there is the paranormal element of the miraculous healing gift. I did not find that distracting though it was central to all that happened.
The use of first names at times made it seem modern to me. I would have preferred it more as it would have been in the 13th century. (Except possibly between the two knights who were close friends, it would not be William, but Sir William (which was used only a few times). And Sir Henry Postel, would not be “Henry,” but Sir Henry. The Abbott also called the bishop by his first name, which seemed odd.)
One other minor thing: The Bible does not suggest “an eye for an eye,” as the heroine tells the abbess, but rather the opposite: “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.” (Jesus in Matthew) Cristiana might have been ignorant, but the abbess, to whom the words were spoken, certainly wasn’t yet she did not correct Cristiana.
September 18, 2013
OMG! This was so much better than Trust In Me! I loved the first book A Vow to Keep and was a bit disappointed with Trust in Me - but I absolutely adored this book.
William was a amazing hero and even though Cristiana was a tad bit single minded in her quest for answers/vengeance, she was still likable.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes historical romance novels. Ms Williams is definitely an author I will be on the lookout for in the future.
William was a amazing hero and even though Cristiana was a tad bit single minded in her quest for answers/vengeance, she was still likable.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes historical romance novels. Ms Williams is definitely an author I will be on the lookout for in the future.
November 11, 2013
3.5/5.0
The final installment in the Vengeance Series, "Believe in Me" can be read as a stand alone.
Read full review in the November 2013 issue of InD’tale Magazine.
The final installment in the Vengeance Series, "Believe in Me" can be read as a stand alone.
Read full review in the November 2013 issue of InD’tale Magazine.
March 1, 2017
I'm pretty medieval "ed" out now but another strong heroine with spunk made the strong enjoyable.
October 26, 2013
A sweet romance set within the 13th Century and satisfying conclusion to a trilogy
This well-written historical romance set within an era of religious reform and societal obligation, is a thoroughly enjoyable and light read. Despite the medieval backdrop I found disappointingly meagre historical details, as the overall tone and impression I got when reading this book was that it felt modern and contemporary stylised. The author’s writing suggested that Lady Christiana and Sir William de Bremont’s relationship was akin to our present day ‘love’ and I could emotionally empathize with the characters very easily. The emphasis on chivalry, unquestionable loyalty and the consequences of duty were admirable and interesting to explore through a Knight. The paranormal element to this story, regarding Christiana’s healing ability, was an unexpected imaginative twist that adds originality to an otherwise simplistic plot. The characters love for one another is credible and it is easy to believe all that transpires between them, as the ultimate choice between duty and vengeance versus love is made. Character-driven and full of heartfelt poignancy and truth-drawing clarity, the positive aspects of this novel far outweigh the negatives in terms of evaluating a good book. Having not read the previous books within ‘the Vengeance trilogy’, a vow to keep and trust in me, I cannot gain a complete picture of the entire story but only observe the proceedings and events that ensue that lead to the ending.
Lana Williams Novel was a quick, entertaining read that unfortunately lacked substance and depth as to make it anything extraordinary. I was somewhat detached throughout, as I did not connect as much as I would have liked with the characters despite being eager to uncover the mystery as to Lady Christiana’s mother’s murderer. The concept of having additional layers on top of a historical romance, such as the murder mystery and the supernatural gift, certainly redeemed what could have been a bland book and makes it much more readable and unique. This undeveloped story is lacking in all those essential qualities that segregate mediocre from the exceptional and memorable, therefore regretfully I can only rate this book 3.5 star. If you enjoy touching romance that’s distinctive then this heart-warming novel is a promising edition to your bookshelf.
*I won a copy of “Believe in me” (Vengeance trilogy 3) by Lana Williams through a Goodreads, first-read giveaway.*
www.lanawilliams.net
This well-written historical romance set within an era of religious reform and societal obligation, is a thoroughly enjoyable and light read. Despite the medieval backdrop I found disappointingly meagre historical details, as the overall tone and impression I got when reading this book was that it felt modern and contemporary stylised. The author’s writing suggested that Lady Christiana and Sir William de Bremont’s relationship was akin to our present day ‘love’ and I could emotionally empathize with the characters very easily. The emphasis on chivalry, unquestionable loyalty and the consequences of duty were admirable and interesting to explore through a Knight. The paranormal element to this story, regarding Christiana’s healing ability, was an unexpected imaginative twist that adds originality to an otherwise simplistic plot. The characters love for one another is credible and it is easy to believe all that transpires between them, as the ultimate choice between duty and vengeance versus love is made. Character-driven and full of heartfelt poignancy and truth-drawing clarity, the positive aspects of this novel far outweigh the negatives in terms of evaluating a good book. Having not read the previous books within ‘the Vengeance trilogy’, a vow to keep and trust in me, I cannot gain a complete picture of the entire story but only observe the proceedings and events that ensue that lead to the ending.
Lana Williams Novel was a quick, entertaining read that unfortunately lacked substance and depth as to make it anything extraordinary. I was somewhat detached throughout, as I did not connect as much as I would have liked with the characters despite being eager to uncover the mystery as to Lady Christiana’s mother’s murderer. The concept of having additional layers on top of a historical romance, such as the murder mystery and the supernatural gift, certainly redeemed what could have been a bland book and makes it much more readable and unique. This undeveloped story is lacking in all those essential qualities that segregate mediocre from the exceptional and memorable, therefore regretfully I can only rate this book 3.5 star. If you enjoy touching romance that’s distinctive then this heart-warming novel is a promising edition to your bookshelf.
*I won a copy of “Believe in me” (Vengeance trilogy 3) by Lana Williams through a Goodreads, first-read giveaway.*
www.lanawilliams.net
October 28, 2013
William has been granted a second chance at life. While trying to prove, and understand, his worthiness as to why God has allowed this, he is directed by the Bishop to escort Lady Cristiana to the Bishop's home in Longsbury. Cristiana's mother has recently passed and the Bishop has been awarded guardianship of Cristiana. The young, female healer will be a most welcome asset to his plans for building a grand cathedral. Trouble is Cristiana is certain her mother's death wasn't the result of a roadside robbery gone wrong and is determined to exact revenge against those responsible. Traveling to Longsbury to reside with the Bishop is not in her plans, especially since her mother had warned her to stay away from the Bishop. But William has his assignment, and despite Cristiana's pleas that the Bishop is not who he seems, he will see her safely to Longsbury. And help her to understand that residing under the Bishop's protection is in her best interest. Or so he thought. Upon arrival at the Bishop's manor, William discovers Cristiana's pleas were for naught, and must deduce a way to save the Lady from the clutches of evil.
Ms. Williams' third book in her Vengeance Trilogy, Believe In Me, captured my attention and held it every bit as much as books one and two in the series. Her writing style is flawless and reminiscent of romances from the early 90's. She has a unique way of taking you inside the hearts of her hero and heroine, while spinning a clever story hinged on greed. If you're a fan of Knights and Ladies, this book will not disappoint.
Ms. Williams' third book in her Vengeance Trilogy, Believe In Me, captured my attention and held it every bit as much as books one and two in the series. Her writing style is flawless and reminiscent of romances from the early 90's. She has a unique way of taking you inside the hearts of her hero and heroine, while spinning a clever story hinged on greed. If you're a fan of Knights and Ladies, this book will not disappoint.
November 16, 2015
Reviewed by Andrea
Book provided by the author for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
This was my favorite of the three books in The Vengeance Series by Lana Williams. In book two, we met William, who was on the brink of death. This is the continuation of his story.
Christiana is dead-set on seeking vengeance on her mother’s killer. When she is told that she has a new guardian and it is the very person her mother told her to stay away from, Christiana is determined to escape. William is the man who is sent to get her and deliver her to the Bishop, who knows about the special gift Christiana has and plans to exploit it. The longer she is in the Bishop’s household, the more they learn about just how horrible of a man he is. William vows to get Christiana away from him but will she give up her revenge?
William and Cristiana are my favorite characters in all of the Vengeance books. Their chemistry is amazing. From the first few pages, you know that this romance is going to be epic. The subject is unique and the story flows so well that I finished this book in one night. I couldn’t put it down. I had to know if Christiana was going to leave with William and if they were going to live happily every after.
I love the humor that Lana Williams added to this story. William has a great sense of humor and Christiana’s attempts to get away kept me giggling.
I am sad to see this series end but look forward to future books from Lana Williams.
Book provided by the author for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
This was my favorite of the three books in The Vengeance Series by Lana Williams. In book two, we met William, who was on the brink of death. This is the continuation of his story.
Christiana is dead-set on seeking vengeance on her mother’s killer. When she is told that she has a new guardian and it is the very person her mother told her to stay away from, Christiana is determined to escape. William is the man who is sent to get her and deliver her to the Bishop, who knows about the special gift Christiana has and plans to exploit it. The longer she is in the Bishop’s household, the more they learn about just how horrible of a man he is. William vows to get Christiana away from him but will she give up her revenge?
William and Cristiana are my favorite characters in all of the Vengeance books. Their chemistry is amazing. From the first few pages, you know that this romance is going to be epic. The subject is unique and the story flows so well that I finished this book in one night. I couldn’t put it down. I had to know if Christiana was going to leave with William and if they were going to live happily every after.
I love the humor that Lana Williams added to this story. William has a great sense of humor and Christiana’s attempts to get away kept me giggling.
I am sad to see this series end but look forward to future books from Lana Williams.
January 17, 2014
Sir William is tasked with delivering Lady Cristiana to her new guardian, Bishop Duval. Though he’s initially anxious to be rid of his charge, feeling the commission beneath him, he soon finds himself attracted to the lady. Nevertheless, he’s befuddled and frustrated by her persistent efforts to foil his mission, combined with her strong dislike of the Bishop for reasons she holds secret.
Cristiana has good reason to distrust all connected with the Bishop, but she too begins to warm to William. Once delivered to the Bishop, she determines to find out the truth regarding her mother’s violent death while protecting a secret gift of her own that, though it may save the lives of others, could cost her her own.
This is the third and final installment of Ms. William’s Vengeance Trilogy and, like the two books before it, this one delivers on all levels. The author moves her characters comfortably through their medieval world all the while building the layers of her characters and her story. Add in the touch of paranormal that is a hallmark of this trilogy and you have one very fun read.
Yes, this book stands alone, so don’t feel you must have read the previous two, A Vow to Keep and Trust in Me, to enjoy it. But why not read all three? If you've been looking for a wonderful romantic series to enchant and excite you, this could be the one!
Cristiana has good reason to distrust all connected with the Bishop, but she too begins to warm to William. Once delivered to the Bishop, she determines to find out the truth regarding her mother’s violent death while protecting a secret gift of her own that, though it may save the lives of others, could cost her her own.
This is the third and final installment of Ms. William’s Vengeance Trilogy and, like the two books before it, this one delivers on all levels. The author moves her characters comfortably through their medieval world all the while building the layers of her characters and her story. Add in the touch of paranormal that is a hallmark of this trilogy and you have one very fun read.
Yes, this book stands alone, so don’t feel you must have read the previous two, A Vow to Keep and Trust in Me, to enjoy it. But why not read all three? If you've been looking for a wonderful romantic series to enchant and excite you, this could be the one!
August 17, 2013
Believe in Me by Lana Williams is a well written book with rich characters, Lady Cristiana and Sir William, and a great flow. The age old virtue of putting others first is wonderfully displayed in this 13th century romance. The hero and heroin know that their honor and duty are importance qualities, which they choose not to compromise upon. Williams’ writing skills shine throughout the 315 pages and it is fun to see the relationships she develops.
I hope this author continues to writes historical romantic novels so I have another book to add to my must read list! If you haven’t read her earlier books in the Vengeance trilogy, A Vow to Keep and Trust in Me, I highly recommend you get them! You won’t be disappointed!
I hope this author continues to writes historical romantic novels so I have another book to add to my must read list! If you haven’t read her earlier books in the Vengeance trilogy, A Vow to Keep and Trust in Me, I highly recommend you get them! You won’t be disappointed!
August 5, 2013
I received an advance copy of this book from the author.
I've been waiting to read Believe In Me, the third book in this trilogy, and I wasn't disappointed. Once again, the author has created an emotionally intense love story that weaves in longing, destiny, intrigue and true love. I really liked the heroine, Christiana, and her spirit and drive. William, her hero, was both strong and sweet. Together they had such an immediate chemistry and I was drawn into their story and how they had to work together and move past their own fears to earn their happily ever after. I'd highly recommend this book and the first two by this author.
I've been waiting to read Believe In Me, the third book in this trilogy, and I wasn't disappointed. Once again, the author has created an emotionally intense love story that weaves in longing, destiny, intrigue and true love. I really liked the heroine, Christiana, and her spirit and drive. William, her hero, was both strong and sweet. Together they had such an immediate chemistry and I was drawn into their story and how they had to work together and move past their own fears to earn their happily ever after. I'd highly recommend this book and the first two by this author.
August 23, 2013
Lana Williams does it again. She transports us back in time to a land of castles and hunky knights who ride horseback and carry swords. I loved this third story in the Vengeance Trilogy. The characters were well developed and the love story was fulfilling. The cover is great and just how I picture William and Cristiana. I enjoyed the storyline, the tension, the dialogue, and especially the love story that develops between the main characters! Very enjoyable read and I would recommend this to anyone who likes sexy knights and spunky heroines. This one kept me up late, turning pages to see what happened next and it was worth the loss of sleep. Great read!
July 20, 2016
The last in the Vengeance Trilogy centers around Lady Cristiana seeking revenge for her mother's death until a knight captivates her. This medieval romance doesn't disappoint with passion and a paranormal twist. Another great read from Williams.
November 15, 2016
Vengeance trilogy completed in
Lana Williams is a gifted writer. I've finished the secrets series and now this one. She keeps you drawn in with likeable characters and dastardly villains engaging in intricate plots. I read her books just on author.
Lana Williams is a gifted writer. I've finished the secrets series and now this one. She keeps you drawn in with likeable characters and dastardly villains engaging in intricate plots. I read her books just on author.
June 8, 2014
Good conclusion to the series.
October 11, 2015
With each book in the "Vengeance" series, Lana Williams improves. Good plot, good characters, some "steamy" scenes.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews