MarcoAntonio & Amaryllis

by Y. Correa

The year 1585. The Anglo-Spanish War. England’s greed for Spain’s crops, land, and supplies gives birth to the inertia of intolerance on both sides. Yet, even then, Love surges forth.

MarcoAntonio, a Spanish gentleman and knight, defied all boundaries of color and culture, when setting eyes on the English lady Amaryllis. Although to others, he may be a bit reserved, he dares to lower his defenses solely for her.

Amaryllis is an English lady. One with an open heart, gentle spirit, and shining eloquence. She knew that she should not desire MarcoAntonio. Still, a love feeling so right couldn’t be so horribly wrong!

Travel with MarcoAntonio and Amaryllis as they duel with internal and external forces threatening to tear their powerful love apart. In the midst of troubles the likes of which have no compare, MarcoAntonio and Amaryllis find themselves having to fight the most unexpected of adversaries, just for the right to love each other.

Discover why their LOVE is the result of ALL things conquered!

Genres: Historical Romance

ebook

First published April 23, 2013

About the author

Y. Correa is a literary evolutionary, luring one in with her talent of Romancing the Words, keeping one hypnotized with dynamic characters, and stimulating one with engaging narrative voices, strong plots, and epic conflicts. Her works are as complex and as distinct as her person; a delightful combination of eclectic and antiquated. Therefore, the mere mention of fitting into one set genre is laughable. The multi-genre decadence is where she showcases her magnificence.
Y. Correa is also the creator and founder of All Authors Publishing House and all of its subsidiaries, as well as the now popular Facebook Group, "Talk Books To Me" a place where all authors from all walks of life can come to promote their works.
Y. Correa’s works include:
Solo Works
~ Historical Fiction “MarcoAntonio & Amaryllis”
~ Sci-Fi Mashup “The Earth 8-8-2 Saga" currently a 3 book collection, with an anticipated 7 books by the end of the series.
~ Paranormal Romantic Drama "Lilith's Dominion"
~ Short Story Anthology coined after her catchphrase, "Dimensions of Literary Seduction"
~ Novelette "Peter Blade" a dark psychological drama.
~ Retro-futuristic dark drama, "Reversal" a novel of humanity in retrograde
Anthology Participation
~ "Concordant Vibrancy: Unity"
~ "Holiday Keepsakes"
~ "Crackles of the Heart: Divergent Ink Book 1"
~ "Concordant Vibrancy: Vitality"
~ "Concordant Vibrancy: Lustrate"
~ "Pleasure Prints: Divergent Ink Book 2"
~ "Concordant Vibrancy: Inferno"
~ "Concordant Vibrancy: Extancy"
Upcoming Works Include
~ "Earth 8-8-2: Genesis of Apocalypse" the 4th book in the Earth 8-8-2 Saga
~ "The Legacy of MarcoAntonio and Amaryllis" the final instalment to "MarcoAntonio & Amaryllis"
~ "Genesis Ellipse ..." an epic biblical sci-fi drama
~ "Kismet" a standalone novel of karma gone awry
~ "Tainted Myth" a standalone novel about the misconceptions of the wendigo legend
While there are many more projects in the works, Y. Correa also offers a handful of free short stories for the public to enjoy at any time. Yet, regardless of her many literary endeavors and accomplishments, Y. Correa proudly considers herself an average person.

Reviews

[Kobby Gyampoh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review was by the ChicklitPad blog.


Forbidden love. Dark Magic. A dashing hero. A not-herself-most-of-the-novel heiress. A beautifully plotted novel set in the 14th century. Shakespeare can toss and turn in his grave (with envy) for all Y.Correa cares!


“Ma' lady already is aware that I am a man of few words. So, I shall not waste any more time with needless words and I will ask you again, ma' lady... once more... Just one kiss...?”



The very mention of the above words plunges the reader into a Romeo and Juliet setting. Truly it becomes a Romeo and Juliet setting with the hero, MarcoAntonio being below her window and Amaryllis looking down at him.


MarcoAntonio is a Spanish knight who certainly fits the Knight In Shining Armor category with his dashing looks and amazing body he carries around naked in two occasions in the novel. Sweet. He’s smitten by the charms of Amaryllis, an English woman who fits the English Rose bill with her fine hair and captivating smile. The two fight to overcome their love (though MarcoAntonio does most of the fighting and Amaryllis most of the crying.)


Amaryllis is sent to a cult-like group called The Sisterhood after being caught in bed with the dashing hero where she’s possessed by Mother Haydie, the goddess of The Sisterhood. MarcoAntonio not knowing the whereabouts of his lady after being imprisoned in a dungeon by Amaryllis’ father, seeks to find her at all costs with Rye, a gypsy woman disguised in the clothes of a man after an incident that changes her life brutally and his brother Damian, a guy whose charms surpasses that of the main hero (I must say).

With Rye’s sense of humor that gives the novel more appeal besides the numerous moments of passion between evil and good, Damian’s ineluctable charms, MarcoAntonio’s strength and swiftness in slicing his sword through his foes and Amaryllis’ split personality (being possessed by Mother Haydie and her mind which isn’t a formidable opponent to the goddess’ powers) this books proves to be a very delightful read and leaves a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction on the reader’s mind when the epic battle is fought and all problems settled.


In the end, there’s the lesson that love conquers all and not even the most sinister villain that would make all other villains cry (with admiration) could stop it. I couldn’t drop this book once I started (or rather, close Adobe Reader). You don’t have to be a fan of historical romance, archaic language and very well-coordinated love-making to adore this piece.


Writing about dark magic entangled with equally dark passion and tongue-in-cheek humor, Y. Correa is definitely an author to look forward to.


To get your book reviewed by the blog, contact us at chicklitpad@yahoo.com or chicklitpad@gmail.com we only review books with an element of romance from self-published authors. Check us out at http://chicklitpad.blogspot.com

[Limau Nipis · Rating 2 out of 5]

**This review is written for an honest opinion in exchange of the e-book copy provided by the author.**

I definitely think this book has a strong plot. Paranormal, fantasy, romance, medieval, knights, forbidden love.

But well, the writing is maybe not my kind of preference. Yes, I know, sometimes the element of thrill or suspense is needed to make the story gives more impact. In this case, there seems to be some rough edges to be worked on the writing, focusing on the suspense. The reader does not need to know all the details, for me, let us keep guessing what would happen next or what actually happened.

In short, the story of MarcoAntonio & Amaryllis is such a sweet story because of the forbidden love between them. I like that the author inserts the magical elements of sisterhood, and that MarcoAntonio is not the usual type of hero. And when I mean usual; an English gentleman with a title.

And furthermore, even though the sex scene is not that graphic, I was tired that the author has to repeat on it again and again. On the sex scene, I mean. Sometimes, one nice scene with much more consideration given is much better than repeating the scenes again and again.

My complaint is more towards the arrangement of the plot. Because this story has an ingredient of a blockbuster novel, but the story seems to be written with revealing the thrill too much.

For example; Rhys character was nicely developed. I actually do want to know what happened in the past. Unfortunately, the writer has the knack of explaining everything about Rhys past after we were introduced to the character. I would prefer it to be mysterious and let the reader figure it out, then the writer revealed the true story behind Rhys identity toward the climax. This might make the book give a much more lasting impression to readers.

Anyway, since I do love the plot, I am rewarding it 2 stars. I was OK with it, somehow.

I see a great potential for the author. As I wrote earlier, the plot is quite strong as a basis of a good story.

[Carol Cassada · Rating 5 out of 5]

Any story with forbidden love grabs my attention and has me rooting for the couple. MarcoAntonio and Amaryllis are lovers torn apart due to the Anglo-Spanish War. MarcoAntonio is the man every woman dreams of. Aside from his good looks, he’s a gentleman and it shows through his respect to Amaryllis and his backstory of how he worked to provide for his family. Amaryllis is the damsel who longs to be with MarcoAntonio. yet knows she can’t due to their different backgrounds. However, this doesn’t stop the couple from pursuing a romance.

The story starts off as a historical romance, but then switches to paranormal when MarcoAntonio must rescue Amaryllis from the evil witch Mother Haydie. Along the journey MarcoAntonio seeks help from his brother Damian and a gypsy Rye. Damian is the complete opposite of his brother, he’s more rowdy and a womanizer. At first, I was turned off by Damian’s behavior, but towards the end my feelings changed when his softer side was showcased.

Out of all the characters, Rye was my favorite. He provides plenty of humor as he proves to be a thorn in MarcoAntonio’s side. His banter with MarcoAntonio had me rolling with laughter and even though Rye is small in stature, he’s a powerful force when it comes to saving his friends from danger. Although, Rye does provide humor throughout the story, his painful secret past will surprise readers and tug at their heartstrings.

The ending of the book will leave you in a mixture of tears and happiness. Plus, there hints of a sequel on the way. I for one can’t wait for part two and see what’s in store for the characters.

[Queen Spades · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once this work is relaunched, I highly recommend you check out MarcoAntonio and Amaryllis for its' authenticity relative to the time frame, the careful and successful implementation and execution of interest in all the characters, and the truthful resolution in which she gave and how delicately she interwoven everyone's destinies. This is not one's typical Romeo and Juliet scenario, but filled with characters whose stories you can relate to and whose internal struggles will capture your hearts.

Extended review found on The Review Board

[A. Jr. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The power of love crossing boundaries in a med-evil setting, while adding in the element of the supernatural character in Mother Haydie really pushes this story and drives it to a great ending. The characters are believable and the plot and flashbacks gives this story meaning and sorts out all the mysteries that the reader goes through.
If you are into romance with a paranormal twist, I would recommend this book. Fast-paced read!

[Casey Harvell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Certain love stories throughout time can take a reader and change them. Star-crossed tales of forbidden love, Romeo and Juliet, Tristan and Isolde, now MarcoAntonio and Amaryllis.

A long time ago, when Spain was overtaken by the English, and war was a normal presence in Spain, as they fought for their land and freedom, two met who were destined to be, and to not be. All it took was a glance, to forever entwine their souls and destinies.

Enter an ancient deity, a goddess set on reincarnation and ultimate power. She will stop at nothing to fulfil her prophecy. With her sisterhood of dedicated followers, how can the world possibly stand a chance?

MarcoAntonio teams up with his brother, and an unlikely, but highly effective, small, silver tongued man (who saves his behind on multiple occasions.) However, things are not all that they appear.

Will medieval mindset or true love prevail? Will a bitter, ancient goddess bring the world to its knees?

Find out by reading this well-written, engrossing tale of inseparable lovers, and how their love survives to overcome everything in their path. With characters that will entrance you, a story to keep you on the edge of your seat, and details that will have you living and feeling each scene, this is a story for romance lovers everywhere.

[Nicola McDonagh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is not your average star-crossed lovers saga. The medieval setting and supernatural elements raise this story above the usual period romances. It is action packed throughout and there are some quite erotic sections that will satisfy those with a thirst for something more ‘adult’ in their books.

Some of the descriptions of place and action are tremendous and there is just enough humour, in the form of my favourite character, Rye, (the feisty gypsy sidekick) to keep the narrative alive.

I was particularly taken with the ending. I thought it was beautifully written and very tender. I confess I shed a tear or two.

There are twists and turns and action all the way through this tale. If you like romance and the supernatural, then you will love this book.

I wanted to give this book a 5* review but I thought that there were too many flashback scenes that cut into the action and stilted the wonderful fast-paced narrative. A very minor detail that is just me being pedantic☺
If I could have given 4.85 I would!

[Brenda Perlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author made it very easy to visualize this provocative story because the writing was just that good. I don't always comment on the writing on all of my reviews but from the first pages I knew there was sophistication that went into writing this book. So pay attention! You don't want to miss a thing!

The words flowed flawlessly and this clever story took me to another time and place. I really loved everything about MarcoAntonio & Amaryllis. The only thing I didn't like was seeing it end! Exquisite!

"That night as he stared out his window, thinking about life, loss of life and love, his eyes began to weigh heavy and flutter closed. His dream, was truly not a dream at all, but much rather memories of his life. Things that he'd gone through in years prior, as well as spurts of his life now. It was a collage of memories all tightly knit together, that came and went in bursts."

[Marianna Randazzo · Rating 4 out of 5]

It has been a long time since I've read any historical romantic novels and I was very much impressed by how quickly drawn in I was by this book. The element of the supernatural kept my interest piqued as the characters each had to fight their own physical and emotional demons, especially Amaryllis.
I enjoyed the setting which only reinforces that problems of the heart, and the forbidden have been around since the beginning of time. What we may consider unique problems were and always will be examples of what those desperately in love will face, in the past, in the present and in the future.

Very good read.

Marianna Randazzo
Author of:

Given Away, A Sicilian Upbringing

[Missy Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I usually can't get through an entire romance novel in one sitting. However, as soon as I picked up the book, game over. For the life of me, I could not stop turning the pages. The charaters were so real that I felt like i was personally experiencing all thier trials and tribulations.
A Spanish knight falls for an english woman, and they go to hell and back just to be together.
The writing had a few issues, like repetition, but I didn't even care. That's just how good the story is!! This novel was just.....(poof! Mind blown.) hats off to Miss Correa. There were not enough stars, but 6 out 6. It's one of those books you'll always remember. I highly reccommend this...again, wow!!!

[Amanda Figueroa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not a person that is to into the "Medieval" genre of books, but I was fortunate to be a beta-reader for this specific book. I was pleased in so many different ways. At times I felt as if I was actually living in the story. Lets just say this particular book had me at "Hello"!

"Love is the result of all things conquered..." That is a saying that has proven itself completely through the adventure, happiness, and misfortune of this book.

To all of you that truly enjoy adventurous, whimsical, magical and true romance I would MOST DEFINITELY recommend "MarcoAntonio & Amaryllis".

[Andrea Houtsch · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given a copy of this book by the author for a beta read. Caution: possible spoilers ahead, but I have tried to keep these to a minimum.

I typically do not read historical romances, let alone romances that cover the spectrum of genres that MarcoAntonio & Amaryllis covered, ranging from romance and light erotica to action and adventure and the paranormal. Despite the fact that I might otherwise never have come across this book or chosen to read it on my own I enjoyed MA&A.
Ms. Correa has invented a cast of characters that catch your attention and remain with you after the book and story has ended. The plot pacing is well done - quick, to the point, and keeps you wondering what will happen next. There is never a dull moment in these characters' lives for the duration of this adventure. There are no extraneous characters; each person has a history and behavioral motivations that are believable.
While enjoying the story I would have enjoyed a bit more delving into specifics on just why the English hated the Spanish as fervently as they did. A bit more historical detail would have brought MA & A's backstory and current situation to brighter, richer life as well as giving credence to MarcoAntonio's family's connection to the crown. Yet these are minor issues when considering the entirety of the experience.
I would also have loved to see more physical detail as to where all of the action was taking place. Ms. Correa does specify the general locations, ie: Madrid, Spain as well as the time frames each scene was taking place in, but I did feel a little lost trying to track them from one location to another, leaving me with a few questions that otherwise did not necessarily detract from the reading. I would also have appreciated a bit more backstory on the paranormal aspects; I felt a bit "plonked down" into a story already in full swing and into a world that did not question the presence of covens of witches or the presence of an otherworldly demon/spirit questing for world domination.

One other note, which may be solved in editing, is the use of anachronistic terminology in a few places. Modern terminology or slang juxtaposes the medievil setting in one or two instances (particularly for MarcoAntonio) that did pull me away from the story. On a related note I did have some difficulties understanding the English dialog due to the spelling of some words (wilw, vs will) but this may come down to my unfamiliarity with the phonetics of early English spoken language vs today's pronunciation and sentence structuring.

Overall I appreciate the time invested in reading this book/story. Ms. Correa clearly has a passion for writing and knows what stories she wants to tell. With MA&A she has gone for the gusto, weaving a story that sweeps you away and begs to enchant. I would definitely recommend this book to someone who is looking for a light historical romance interspersed with a slew of genre-merging elements that all serve to deliver an intriguing story.

[Brenda Perlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

"A single look. That was all it took...
One single glance, for them both to know that they wanted each other more than they had wanted anything else in the world. It was "love at first sight" indeed."

This story opens up and takes you to another time and place. An adventure where the mundane is not attainable. Forbidden love for no other reason than color of ones skin. Just like life, this story is about sacrifice and judgment. Where the color of your skin determines how you can and cannot share your love with another. Where love is forbidden for reasons that makes sense to some but not all. It’s a great meaningful topic with touching characters that you can’t help fall in love with.

I really enjoyed the poetic flow and the fairytale quality to this unusual enthralling story. There is a depth that reached out to the farthest depth of my inner-core. It is a beautiful story that takes you in, entertains you and makes you a part of the saga instantly. Marc & Amaryllis is unique and spellbinding. It has you routing for the lovers as you feel their great pain. The way the writer shares their special connection you cannot help but get lost in this memorizing adventure of love and survival. There is beauty in the dialog that I found irresistible. Like Romeo and Juliette. Here is a love that needs few words but you can feel it by the colorful descriptions. The romantic part of me believes in love at first sight.

“He jumped out of his nightmare with a leap up in his seat. It was still night. Rye lay on his donkey, still fast asleep. MarcoAntonio looked around, almost as if he could not believe that he'd awaken from the dream. He rubbed his face and felt the wetness of the single tear that streamed down. Drawing in a long hard breath he spoke, “Amaryllis,” only for the sake of himself. As if by saying her name, things would somehow make sense.”

[M.J. Holman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.

I finished reading MarcoAntonio and Amaryllis today and my initial thoughts were ones of ambiguity. The writing is at times beautiful, in a free flowing style reminiscent of a fairytale. On other occasions it is slightly stuccato and loses it's shape. The plot is simple, the characters engaging and I was particularly drawn into the relationship between MarcoAntonio and Rye. The latter is an inventive character – in more ways than one – and is pivotal to the whole piece. Each character holds their own in some way whether they represent dark or light.
There is a supernatural aspect to what would have been a procedural love story. This lifts the novel above the ordinary. The darkest character is Mother Haydie, being one of the strong female leads and two further empowered females – without giving anything away – makes this a story about female resilience.
I was taken by many aspects of the writing, though given it was a period piece thought there were a number of anachronisms. My other reservations are in line with some of my fellow reviewers: the flashbacks brought the proceedings to a halt too often and the sex scenes a little repetitive.
However, the author has great style and at times sinuous grace and thought the prose was for the most part exciting and fresh.

[Jennifer Loiske · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

The story begins in Spain in 1585. The people are fighting over land while a young noble man MarcoAntonio sets his eyes on an English lady Amaryllis. It’s a love at first sight, something prohibited and something worth fighting for. But young love is often impatient and foolish, driving the young lovers doing something they will regret later.

Amaryllis’s father ends up contacting The Sisterhood, an evil coven of witches, sealing not only her destiny but a destiny of so many others by starting a cycle of events that will awaken an ancient creature who once summoned back to earth will not yield without a fight, if even then.

This is not only a story of MarcoAntonio and Amaryllis but also a story of young gypsy called Rye and MarcoAntonio’s brother Damian. The story is full of unexpected twists and turns, suspense and a wicked siren kind of witchcraft. It is refreshingly different and brave. A story well worth of reading and something I will warmly recommend for all paranormal romance readers who likes medieval stories!

[Da'Kharta Rising · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fly ass read! I like my heroines and my villians powerful and sexy. I wanted Rye to have more of a chance to shine so I will forgive the author since there's rumor of a sequel that's going to feature more Rye. I don't see Mother Haydie going down without a fight. She's my villian hero: if there is such a thing.

I am a background chic, so I would have liked some more background as far as the conflict with England and Spain. Not like History Channel overkill or anything but just enough. Also why couldn't M & A have gotten a bit more one-on-one time before....well, that's just my imagination going into overload.

Historical read, paranormal goodness, lots of action--this had me sold. Oh, super romantic saps, get this too!

P.S. I saw an updated cover of M & A. Whoever designed that should be shot! WTF is up with all that brown? Were they encased in a brownie. I was about to say another word but I'll keep in nice on GR.

#firethenewcoverartist

[Jordanna East · Rating 4 out of 5]

MarcoAntonio and Amaryllis is a romance you might be told while sitting around a fire with your girlfriends. A long ago era, a forbidden love, a bittersweet ending. Romance isn't my usual genre, but I didn't mind this one. I really felt the emotions of the characters jump off the page: the love and the lust, the desperation and the urgency.

The blurb implies that this is a historical romance, but I was disappointed to find few elements of the Anglo-Spanish War. However, what M&A lacked in historical elements, it made up for in another, rather unexpected, plot twist, which I won't spoil for you here. Not only that, but there are a couple of other twists thrown into the mix that I hadn't seen coming. Characters aren't always who you think they are!

Overall, this is a good read and a unique romance you'll surely enjoy.

[Dominique Goodall]

This story at first sung to me of Romeo and Juliet though with different names and different lives. Quickly, I fell into the story and learning more about the pasts of the characters was beyond interesting! Rye, Damian and Marco Antonio are the three heroes, set out to rescue Amaryllis - Marco Antonio's one and only love. Betrayed by her father and given to dark forces, only they can rescue her and inadvertently, the world! Would definitely read a sequel for this book!

[Synful Desire · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing story that makes my heart pound with excitement and cheer for MarcoAntonio and Amaryllis. Perhaps it is the whole concept of forbidden love that increased my enjoyment as well. I am really a fan of this cover, although I have seen the updated cover which really saddened me. The flashbacks, exciting characters, and conflict really kept me on the edge of my seat. Highly recommend for someone who wants works that are outside the box of what is promoted today.

[C. Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great story. I really enjoyed it. It's a lot different than most medieval books out there, and I think that that's what I enjoyed the most about it. My favorite character was Rye, although the story is actually about MarcoAntonio & Amaryllis.
I really recommend this book to anyone who like historical fiction with a paranormal spin.