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Married to Her Enemy
Amid the chaos of the Norman Conquest, a Saxon beauty goes from captive to bride . . .
In the eleventh century, in the land of Mercia--one day to be known as the English Midlands--Lady Aediva of Etton is prepared to do anything to protect her sister, Cille. So when enemies storm her family's keep, Aediva assumes Cille's identity . . . taking her place as prisoner of Sir Svend du Danemark.
Svend's sole aim is to fulfill his service to William the Conqueror and rebuild the life a woman's betrayal once lost him. So when he receives his new orders to quash the Saxon rebellion, he is stunned. For to do his duty, he must vow to take the beautiful yet provoking Aediva as his wife!
In the eleventh century, in the land of Mercia--one day to be known as the English Midlands--Lady Aediva of Etton is prepared to do anything to protect her sister, Cille. So when enemies storm her family's keep, Aediva assumes Cille's identity . . . taking her place as prisoner of Sir Svend du Danemark.
Svend's sole aim is to fulfill his service to William the Conqueror and rebuild the life a woman's betrayal once lost him. So when he receives his new orders to quash the Saxon rebellion, he is stunned. For to do his duty, he must vow to take the beautiful yet provoking Aediva as his wife!
369 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2017
16 people are currently reading
584 people want to read
About the author
Jenni Fletcher
85 books184 followersJenni Fletcher writes heartwarming Historical Romance and fun Formula 1 romances. She has won 2 Romantic Novelists' Association Awards and teaches creative writing at Bishop Grosseteste University. Originally from Scotland, she now lives in the north of England with her family and one extremely hairy dog.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
December 18, 2018
Eh, it's alright. [/Wodehouse]
While this was a better overall storyline than BESIEGED & BETROTHED, the character types were really, really similar. Svend had more personality than the other guy, so that's a bonus (though his Badly Wounded Heart backstory made me 🙄, because that trope is obnoxiously overused). Another positive: there were some legit Action Scenes in this one. How nice! A medieval with period-appropriate stuff happening! Shocker, I know. :P
...Alas, Aediva made my teeth grind something awful -- a classic bicker-happy bitch that refuses to apologize gracefully or dial down the 'tude, because all her ABSOLUTELY CORRECT & INFLEXIBLE!! points must be made with a sledgehammer. And look, if Svend hadn't been a ridiculously overprotective ninny & refused her access to the dangerous, violent rebel prisoners the final scene wouldn't have had to happen! She's only asserting her rightful independence, y'know?! She's not being stupid or thoughtless or heedless of others, not in the least...because she's a Strong Woman, & therefore the hero must grovel for not encouraging her thoughtless, heedless stupidity. (Yeah, I really despise that trope. Can you tell? :P)
As I said via update, this author seems to have a preferred love story -- the poker-faced badass with a Twagic Past that leads him to have no interest in marrying + the shrill, bickery moo who flails her arms (literally) & can't help but be SO VERY INSULTED!! by every gentle, polite, or even civil thing the hero does, because he's not ____. It's a modified Taming of the Shrew approach, & it just doesn't do it for yours truly -- I liked Svend well enough, but I didn't care for Aediva in the least. I just felt sorry for the poor guy. This author also seems inclined toward insta-love; with both books, the MCs have barely met before the hero must exert "every shred of self control" or "every ounce of control he possessed" to not bend the heroine over the nearest flat surface every time they lock eyes. Seriously? *Maybe* I could buy that later in the story, but not in chapter 2.
So. Will I read this author again? Eh...maybe. But not for awhile, & not unless the blurb shows a radical departure from these MCs.
Random thought: Svend was a pretty obvious Thor/Hemsworth clone, so if that's your preferred brand of beefcake, go crazy. ;)
While this was a better overall storyline than BESIEGED & BETROTHED, the character types were really, really similar. Svend had more personality than the other guy, so that's a bonus (though his Badly Wounded Heart backstory made me 🙄, because that trope is obnoxiously overused). Another positive: there were some legit Action Scenes in this one. How nice! A medieval with period-appropriate stuff happening! Shocker, I know. :P
...Alas, Aediva made my teeth grind something awful -- a classic bicker-happy bitch that refuses to apologize gracefully or dial down the 'tude, because all her ABSOLUTELY CORRECT & INFLEXIBLE!! points must be made with a sledgehammer. And look, if Svend hadn't been a ridiculously overprotective ninny & refused her access to the dangerous, violent rebel prisoners the final scene wouldn't have had to happen! She's only asserting her rightful independence, y'know?! She's not being stupid or thoughtless or heedless of others, not in the least...because she's a Strong Woman, & therefore the hero must grovel for not encouraging her thoughtless, heedless stupidity. (Yeah, I really despise that trope. Can you tell? :P)
As I said via update, this author seems to have a preferred love story -- the poker-faced badass with a Twagic Past that leads him to have no interest in marrying + the shrill, bickery moo who flails her arms (literally) & can't help but be SO VERY INSULTED!! by every gentle, polite, or even civil thing the hero does, because he's not ____. It's a modified Taming of the Shrew approach, & it just doesn't do it for yours truly -- I liked Svend well enough, but I didn't care for Aediva in the least. I just felt sorry for the poor guy. This author also seems inclined toward insta-love; with both books, the MCs have barely met before the hero must exert "every shred of self control" or "every ounce of control he possessed" to not bend the heroine over the nearest flat surface every time they lock eyes. Seriously? *Maybe* I could buy that later in the story, but not in chapter 2.
So. Will I read this author again? Eh...maybe. But not for awhile, & not unless the blurb shows a radical departure from these MCs.
Random thought: Svend was a pretty obvious Thor/Hemsworth clone, so if that's your preferred brand of beefcake, go crazy. ;)
December 20, 2016
“Married to Her Enemy” is the debut book by Jenni Fletcher, and it is a historical romance for those who love history. This is not your typical historical romance; the scope of the story and the history set it apart.
The Story-
Aediva is a Saxon lord’s daughter is in the midst of the Norman invasion. Her sister, Cille, has returned from her castle which has been sacked, only to give birth just as their family home is being invaded. When the invading Norman mentions taking her back as a bride for the Norman commander, Aediva decides to stand-in for her sister to protect her. Svend is not truly a Norman, but he cannot return to his homeland, and he is searching for a home and for a place to put down roots. When he begins to bond with his prisoner, past betrayals remind him to guard his heart.
My Thoughts-
All of the characters in this story are well-developed with realistic motivations and actions. One of my favorite things about reading books set in a different time period is the chance to learn something about that time. This book accomplished that as I really hadn’t considered the people involved in the Norman invasion of England before. You visit these big crumbling towers, and it isn’t always easy to imagine the lives of the people who lived there. Fletcher does a great job of bringing them to life. My only issue was something near the end that I’m not sure was needed, and that the heat level, while not closed door, is somewhat tame in comparison to many current releases. That being said, I enjoyed this book thoroughly.
The Bottom Line-
Jenni Fletcher has written a very good debut novel, and I look forward to reading more from her. This historic romance is a fresh departure from our beloved rakes and rogues with realistic characters that breathe life into another time. It whisked me off to another place and time: a perfect escape, which is exactly the reason I read romance. 4 stars
The Story-
Aediva is a Saxon lord’s daughter is in the midst of the Norman invasion. Her sister, Cille, has returned from her castle which has been sacked, only to give birth just as their family home is being invaded. When the invading Norman mentions taking her back as a bride for the Norman commander, Aediva decides to stand-in for her sister to protect her. Svend is not truly a Norman, but he cannot return to his homeland, and he is searching for a home and for a place to put down roots. When he begins to bond with his prisoner, past betrayals remind him to guard his heart.
My Thoughts-
All of the characters in this story are well-developed with realistic motivations and actions. One of my favorite things about reading books set in a different time period is the chance to learn something about that time. This book accomplished that as I really hadn’t considered the people involved in the Norman invasion of England before. You visit these big crumbling towers, and it isn’t always easy to imagine the lives of the people who lived there. Fletcher does a great job of bringing them to life. My only issue was something near the end that I’m not sure was needed, and that the heat level, while not closed door, is somewhat tame in comparison to many current releases. That being said, I enjoyed this book thoroughly.
The Bottom Line-
Jenni Fletcher has written a very good debut novel, and I look forward to reading more from her. This historic romance is a fresh departure from our beloved rakes and rogues with realistic characters that breathe life into another time. It whisked me off to another place and time: a perfect escape, which is exactly the reason I read romance. 4 stars
November 19, 2017
L'idée sur laquelle se base ce roman avait du potentiel mais n'a pas été exploitée. Toute l'intrigue repose sur des non-dits/des quiproquos...
May 28, 2017
This has been on my to read pile for so long, in fact for way too long and I can only apologise to Jenni Fletcher for making her wait so long for my review. But it was well worth the wait, Oh, my goodness! This is why I like Medieval Romance. The story is fast, intriguing and beautifully written by an author who I can tell you now is going to go a long way.
It is so atmospheric and very realistic it is as though you are actually living in Norman Britain with our adorable couple. It is thrilling, sensual with so much historical fact.
I adore Svend what a terrific character! Cool under pressure, a natural leader honourable and protectively. Plus he is as handsome as hell, I see him more like a renegade pirate than a military man, he is fabulous. He at first comes across as a very sullen and moody man and a very serious man for his age, but once you get to know his story you understand completely why he is how he is.
Svend does have his suspicions about Aediva – or how he first knows her as Cille – once he meets both sisters, you can see the cogs turning in that intelligent brain of his, that something isn’t adding up. He knows there is something that she is keeping back and as he finds it difficult to trust woman in the first place, he is on high alert. On top of his suspicions, he is feeling things for this woman that he shouldn’t he can’t stand the thought of this beautiful, fiery woman being someone else’s wife.
Aediva is a fighter, she said like an alley cat unsheathing her claws at every opportunity, honestly I think if she didn’t find Svend so attractive she would have skewered him with her broad sword. Like Svend, Aediva is having an internal war, on one hand she hates him with a vengeance for just being who he is, but she can’t get away from the fact that she is hugely attracted to the large blonde haired blue-eyed Knight. He is a mystery to her, he keeps saying he isn’t a Norman and he definitely doesn’t look like one, with all that white-blonde hair and icy blue eyes. He doesn’t act like how she has always thought Norman’s acted, he is kind and generous and so caring, with that and his rough charm he has got under her skin.
I love the chemistry between our two leads, it just leaps out at you, even when they first meet and he has got a sword aimed at him by our hellcat, you just feel the sexual tension rippling off the page. You get a sense of intruding in on their private world, whether that be when they are bickering or when they are having a loving tender moment. Both with huge personalities, both very loyal, both fiery and stubborn and hugely protective. They are an absolute success as a couple.
What does amaze me about “Married to her Enemy” is that it is Fletcher’s debut novel, to produce something of this quality on the first outing is astounding and it speaks volumes of this author’s talent. She has an extraordinary eye for the details, not just of the area and the time but the detail she puts into the simplest of scenes, such as a coy look between our leads, it’s clarity is amazing. I can honestly say that Jenni Fletcher is going to be huge success, in the Historical Romance world and she is going to be on the scene for a very long time.
Full Review at Chicks Rogues and Scandals
https://chicksroguesandscandals.wordp...
It is so atmospheric and very realistic it is as though you are actually living in Norman Britain with our adorable couple. It is thrilling, sensual with so much historical fact.
I adore Svend what a terrific character! Cool under pressure, a natural leader honourable and protectively. Plus he is as handsome as hell, I see him more like a renegade pirate than a military man, he is fabulous. He at first comes across as a very sullen and moody man and a very serious man for his age, but once you get to know his story you understand completely why he is how he is.
Svend does have his suspicions about Aediva – or how he first knows her as Cille – once he meets both sisters, you can see the cogs turning in that intelligent brain of his, that something isn’t adding up. He knows there is something that she is keeping back and as he finds it difficult to trust woman in the first place, he is on high alert. On top of his suspicions, he is feeling things for this woman that he shouldn’t he can’t stand the thought of this beautiful, fiery woman being someone else’s wife.
Aediva is a fighter, she said like an alley cat unsheathing her claws at every opportunity, honestly I think if she didn’t find Svend so attractive she would have skewered him with her broad sword. Like Svend, Aediva is having an internal war, on one hand she hates him with a vengeance for just being who he is, but she can’t get away from the fact that she is hugely attracted to the large blonde haired blue-eyed Knight. He is a mystery to her, he keeps saying he isn’t a Norman and he definitely doesn’t look like one, with all that white-blonde hair and icy blue eyes. He doesn’t act like how she has always thought Norman’s acted, he is kind and generous and so caring, with that and his rough charm he has got under her skin.
I love the chemistry between our two leads, it just leaps out at you, even when they first meet and he has got a sword aimed at him by our hellcat, you just feel the sexual tension rippling off the page. You get a sense of intruding in on their private world, whether that be when they are bickering or when they are having a loving tender moment. Both with huge personalities, both very loyal, both fiery and stubborn and hugely protective. They are an absolute success as a couple.
What does amaze me about “Married to her Enemy” is that it is Fletcher’s debut novel, to produce something of this quality on the first outing is astounding and it speaks volumes of this author’s talent. She has an extraordinary eye for the details, not just of the area and the time but the detail she puts into the simplest of scenes, such as a coy look between our leads, it’s clarity is amazing. I can honestly say that Jenni Fletcher is going to be huge success, in the Historical Romance world and she is going to be on the scene for a very long time.
Full Review at Chicks Rogues and Scandals
https://chicksroguesandscandals.wordp...
January 2, 2021
This was a fun story that distracted me while flying from California to Florida. Married to Her Enemy was entertaining, dramatic, romantic, and also a bit silly, at times. How can it not be, when the heroine's lie about pretending to be her sister just gets more out of control as the story progresses? Yet, it's all worth it, in the end.
When the Thor-like hero of Svend shows up to escort Cille to the Normans, her younger sister Aediva pretends to be her sister to protect Cille. However, as Aediva learns more about Svend's errand, she realizes how out of control her lie has become, and she struggles to do what is right and to protects those she loves.
Personally, I really liked Aediva. She's a bit TSTL, especially in the final scene, where she literally goes against Svend's wishes and almost gets several people killed. Honestly, it's surprising no one dies, at all, in this book, but I digress. Aediva's impulsiveness is due to her having to make decisions on the fly in a time of great unrest (the Normans have just conquered England), and the people she normally relies on are dead/incapacitated. It's believable, and I found her behavior consistent throughout the story. In addition, I didn't find it unbearable because she does learn to be honest with Svend at the end of the novel... even if she does what she wants anyway. She was refreshing.
For his part, Svend is a gentleman ahead of his times. He's not only chivalrous but pretty feminist, to the point where he not only questions but argues that women shouldn't just be given in arranged marriages-they should have a choice. I'm sure some medieval knight thought this way, but it was a different perspective than most grooms in arranged marriages have, especially when said groom is about to get a castle and a lot of land out of the deal. His growth is also believable, especially because he really does learn to trust Aediva and think things through instead of just jumping back to his old ideas. Who doesn't like a romance hero like that?
If you like romance novels with misunderstandings, slow-burners, as well as good action scenes, then this is the romance for you!
When the Thor-like hero of Svend shows up to escort Cille to the Normans, her younger sister Aediva pretends to be her sister to protect Cille. However, as Aediva learns more about Svend's errand, she realizes how out of control her lie has become, and she struggles to do what is right and to protects those she loves.
Personally, I really liked Aediva. She's a bit TSTL, especially in the final scene, where she literally goes against Svend's wishes and almost gets several people killed. Honestly, it's surprising no one dies, at all, in this book, but I digress. Aediva's impulsiveness is due to her having to make decisions on the fly in a time of great unrest (the Normans have just conquered England), and the people she normally relies on are dead/incapacitated. It's believable, and I found her behavior consistent throughout the story. In addition, I didn't find it unbearable because she does learn to be honest with Svend at the end of the novel... even if she does what she wants anyway. She was refreshing.
For his part, Svend is a gentleman ahead of his times. He's not only chivalrous but pretty feminist, to the point where he not only questions but argues that women shouldn't just be given in arranged marriages-they should have a choice. I'm sure some medieval knight thought this way, but it was a different perspective than most grooms in arranged marriages have, especially when said groom is about to get a castle and a lot of land out of the deal. His growth is also believable, especially because he really does learn to trust Aediva and think things through instead of just jumping back to his old ideas. Who doesn't like a romance hero like that?
If you like romance novels with misunderstandings, slow-burners, as well as good action scenes, then this is the romance for you!
March 24, 2019
Married to her Enemy is author Jenni Fletcher’s debut novel. I’ve had the pleasure of reading all of Ms. Fletcher’s books to date and loved them, so was looking forward to reading the one book I had yet to read. Well let me tell you, I’m in awe! This is an absolutely fabulous book and shows exactly how talented Ms. Fletcher is.
Sir Svend du Danemark is the son of a Danish farmer. He’s earned his position as a Knight in the King’s personal guard. He’s sent by the King’s deputy to escort Lady Cille back to Redbourn. What Svend doesn’t know is Lady Cille is actually her sister Lady Aediva….
Lady Aediva of Etton is a Saxon maiden. To protect her sister and nephew she pretends to be her sister Lady Cille and returns with Svend to Redbourn. What she doesn’t expect is to start to have feelings for her enemy Svend…
Both Svend and Aediva are strong characters, loyal and protective and find it hard to trust each other in the beginning. They are enemies and yet the tension and attraction between them is there from the start. Aediva has a lot of responsibility on her shoulders and no one to turn to. She would do anything to save her sister and nephew. Svend feels that Aediva is hiding something from him. He struggles to trust her and thinks she’s the most infuriating woman he’s ever known. Whether they were fighting or trying to resist their attraction, there was just this great chemistry between them. They truly were a great couple and I was happy to see them finally trust in each other and admit their feelings.
This was a wonderful enemies to lovers story and I’m still in disbelief that this was a debut novel. Such a fantastic book from the pen of Jenni Fletcher! She’s an author I highly recommend from her debut novel to her very latest, you won’t be disappointed!
Sir Svend du Danemark is the son of a Danish farmer. He’s earned his position as a Knight in the King’s personal guard. He’s sent by the King’s deputy to escort Lady Cille back to Redbourn. What Svend doesn’t know is Lady Cille is actually her sister Lady Aediva….
Lady Aediva of Etton is a Saxon maiden. To protect her sister and nephew she pretends to be her sister Lady Cille and returns with Svend to Redbourn. What she doesn’t expect is to start to have feelings for her enemy Svend…
Both Svend and Aediva are strong characters, loyal and protective and find it hard to trust each other in the beginning. They are enemies and yet the tension and attraction between them is there from the start. Aediva has a lot of responsibility on her shoulders and no one to turn to. She would do anything to save her sister and nephew. Svend feels that Aediva is hiding something from him. He struggles to trust her and thinks she’s the most infuriating woman he’s ever known. Whether they were fighting or trying to resist their attraction, there was just this great chemistry between them. They truly were a great couple and I was happy to see them finally trust in each other and admit their feelings.
This was a wonderful enemies to lovers story and I’m still in disbelief that this was a debut novel. Such a fantastic book from the pen of Jenni Fletcher! She’s an author I highly recommend from her debut novel to her very latest, you won’t be disappointed!
October 16, 2018
Let's start with the cover. I liked it. The cover is of a woman looking period appropriate for 1067. She's not stunning, but she is young and attractive, someone that it would not be hard to imagine the hero being attracted too. And I love it that the cover reflects the character inside. It's aggravating when the woman described in the text doesn't match the one on the cover. The cover is not the cheesy type of the hero and heroine pose sexily with the woman showing a lot of skin and sometimes the guy is shirtless. The heroine is alone on the cover and that seems fitting since it is primarily her story though the hero could have been on the cover too since they seem a couple from early on. It seems clear they made an effort with the cover and I appreciate it.
The story itself... the heroine is sympathetic, appealing, understandable. The author makes it clear how the character thinks and why she does what she does. Same with the hero. You can see both sides in their situations.
Major bonus points for setting it in the atypical time period of 1067. This alone sets it apart and makes it worth reading.
It's funny but the more I write this review the more I realize this book was above average, I really liked it from the cover to the characters to the story. So, instead of giving it a 3 or 3 1/2 star rating I've decided to give it a 4.
It's not only worth reading but worth owning, it just has so much going for it. In fact, now I think about it I'll see what else the author, Jenni Fletcher, has written. Maybe's she's done another historical romance I can try.
The story itself... the heroine is sympathetic, appealing, understandable. The author makes it clear how the character thinks and why she does what she does. Same with the hero. You can see both sides in their situations.
Major bonus points for setting it in the atypical time period of 1067. This alone sets it apart and makes it worth reading.
It's funny but the more I write this review the more I realize this book was above average, I really liked it from the cover to the characters to the story. So, instead of giving it a 3 or 3 1/2 star rating I've decided to give it a 4.
It's not only worth reading but worth owning, it just has so much going for it. In fact, now I think about it I'll see what else the author, Jenni Fletcher, has written. Maybe's she's done another historical romance I can try.
October 18, 2017
This book took me forever to finish because of my daily busy schedule, but it's finally done!
One things that didn't sit quite right for this book is the pace of the event which I had a hard time grasping. The timeline of event is a little warped as there are moments where I thought the event only occurred within 1 or 2 days but the description states it as a week ago. And if I were to quote, it would seems like Aediva had known Svend for only 1 week (duration of their journey from Etton to Redbourn) and following that forced into marriage (which was quoted in the book 2 weeks into their marriage). So, the time taken for them to progress from foes to closely acquainted was only within a month. I might be wrong but this is the inclination I get.
Despite so, this is still a good book worth considering to read if you favor Medieval fiction. Storyline is relatively simple none to sophisticated, oh, maybe give it up to the occasional plot twist which will make you thirst for more.
*Plus point: if you have good imagination, you will definitely feel as though you existed through the book as a bystander!
One things that didn't sit quite right for this book is the pace of the event which I had a hard time grasping. The timeline of event is a little warped as there are moments where I thought the event only occurred within 1 or 2 days but the description states it as a week ago. And if I were to quote, it would seems like Aediva had known Svend for only 1 week (duration of their journey from Etton to Redbourn) and following that forced into marriage (which was quoted in the book 2 weeks into their marriage). So, the time taken for them to progress from foes to closely acquainted was only within a month. I might be wrong but this is the inclination I get.
Despite so, this is still a good book worth considering to read if you favor Medieval fiction. Storyline is relatively simple none to sophisticated, oh, maybe give it up to the occasional plot twist which will make you thirst for more.
*Plus point: if you have good imagination, you will definitely feel as though you existed through the book as a bystander!
July 21, 2021
[mature content warning] but not super explicit, less than what is now considered “New Adult”. So I wouldn’t let my 10 year old read it, but for an older teenager it’s less than ACOTAR
Skimmed through in a single day. It’s a good swoony short read. The historical events surrounding it are not some that I’m extremely familiar with so that piece was interesting. After the Norman invasion of Saxon England. The prejudice expressed was interesting, though the fact that north MCs just happened to know the other’s native language was very convenient even if the explanation was plausible
Biggest pet peeve is that even though the title is “married her enemy” the marriage part is MAYBE a fourth of the book. It’s not even a huge plot point until past the halfway mark. So I don’t think the title is fitting.
Skimmed through in a single day. It’s a good swoony short read. The historical events surrounding it are not some that I’m extremely familiar with so that piece was interesting. After the Norman invasion of Saxon England. The prejudice expressed was interesting, though the fact that north MCs just happened to know the other’s native language was very convenient even if the explanation was plausible
Biggest pet peeve is that even though the title is “married her enemy” the marriage part is MAYBE a fourth of the book. It’s not even a huge plot point until past the halfway mark. So I don’t think the title is fitting.
October 30, 2018
MY SECOND JENNI FLETCHER STORY AND I ALREADY SEE A SIMILAR PATTERN IN HER PLOTS, THOUGH I STILL ENJOY THEM DESPITE THE REPETITION.
OUR HERO is from an unglamorous background, born a lowly civilian who has to curry favours with the King in order to achieve his current status, a soldier yet one who still didn't have his own lands. Sent to retrieve an important woman, he finds a wildcat instead whom he mistook as Cille. The attraction is there, and it slowly builds as they journey for the heroine to meet her intended. Svend may not be a highborn lord, but he's honourable and also intimidating in his own way. I rather liked how the author made him seem sensible and her CHARACTERS always appear a bit more "real" that they actually do think before they act or sometimes speak. Having been betrayed by a woman he loved before, Svend finds himself wavering to trust our heroine after he uncovers her true identity.
OUR HEROINE is a protective filly who only wants to make sure that her sister gives birth without any fatality to complicate the mess they were in. Cille has ranaway from her home and the King's men are looking for her - desperately. Taking her sister's place when the Normans come for her, or at least in this case was Svend, she travels in disguise yet she doesn't know the truth behind her sister's baby and walks in blind to her own deceit. She's also brave and beautiful, with a hint of her own insecurity that will endear you to her.
OVERALL this was enjoyable despite not having any drama or angst. But if you have read one Jenni Fletcher book, you will get that she writes her stories in a similar manner that falls dangerously to repetitive.
OUR HERO is from an unglamorous background, born a lowly civilian who has to curry favours with the King in order to achieve his current status, a soldier yet one who still didn't have his own lands. Sent to retrieve an important woman, he finds a wildcat instead whom he mistook as Cille. The attraction is there, and it slowly builds as they journey for the heroine to meet her intended. Svend may not be a highborn lord, but he's honourable and also intimidating in his own way. I rather liked how the author made him seem sensible and her CHARACTERS always appear a bit more "real" that they actually do think before they act or sometimes speak. Having been betrayed by a woman he loved before, Svend finds himself wavering to trust our heroine after he uncovers her true identity.
OUR HEROINE is a protective filly who only wants to make sure that her sister gives birth without any fatality to complicate the mess they were in. Cille has ranaway from her home and the King's men are looking for her - desperately. Taking her sister's place when the Normans come for her, or at least in this case was Svend, she travels in disguise yet she doesn't know the truth behind her sister's baby and walks in blind to her own deceit. She's also brave and beautiful, with a hint of her own insecurity that will endear you to her.
OVERALL this was enjoyable despite not having any drama or angst. But if you have read one Jenni Fletcher book, you will get that she writes her stories in a similar manner that falls dangerously to repetitive.
December 7, 2016
***FULL REVIEW ORIGNALLY POSTED ON ANONYMISSES.COM***
In a land torn apart by war and hate, two people are drawn together by an undeniable attraction…
In Married to Her Enemy, Jenni Fletcher’s absolutely fantastic debut novel, a Norman warrior and a Saxon noblewoman meet as deadly adversaries. Aediva, our heroine, has plenty of reasons to hate the Normans: they took her homeland, they made outlaws of her people, and they murdered her beloved father. When a band of their soldiers is sighted making its way toward her village, she knows she has only one choice: she must fight.
When the soldiers arrive, Aediva attacks the first one she sees: a giant Dane-turned-Norman called Svend du Danemark. Svend, despite his stature and Norman allegiance, is kind to the beautiful and very feist Aediva, responding to her attempt to stab him to death with some ninja-style disarmament skills and only a bit of annoyance. In classic romance fashion, Svend and Aediva’s tussle results in physical closeness that, despite the charged situation, ignites desire in them both. *Elinor fans self with book.*
The story that follows this wonderful scene is a classic case of mistaken identity, in which Svend confuses Aediva for her sister, Cilla, whom King William has ordered him to capture. Aediva continues the charade in an effort to protect her sister, and so off she goes as the hostage/guest of a very handsome, blue-eyed knight. In the course of their travels the two face illness, rain storms, armed rebels, and a whole host of misunderstandings, arriving to their destination very much in love but still separated by past wounds and hidden truths. Svend’s discovery of Aediva’s true identity almost destroys their chance at happiness, but a forced marriage and the eventual confession of their love for one another ultimately brings them together for good. Hurrah for happy endings!
As you’ve surely already guess, I absolutely adored this book. It’s a funny, poignant, profoundly romantic story set in a world about which I’ve always been very curious (I mean, who doesn’t want to know everything about the aftermath of the Norman invasion?!). The historical details make that world come alive, as does Fletcher’s clear, precise prose. I was instantly invested in the burgeoning affections of Aediva and Svend, and deeply moved by the pain they both felt after years of loss and struggle. Their chemistry is off the charts, and the slow burn of their desire for each other was hugely appealing. You really come to hope and worry for the hero and heroine and you’re overjoyed when they finally get together. As a romance reader, there’s nothing I love more than that!
Another thing I love? That I don’t hate anyone in this book! (Well, except maybe the terrible King William, who’s referenced here and there.) Instead, almost all the characters are surprisingly admirable, and may of them are even endearing. Aediva and Svend are noble, reliable, and courageous, but not so much so they we can’t see them as real people. The supporting cast is clever and caring, and even the conniving Earl FitzOsbern seems redeemable in his own way. I was really interested in learning more about Aediva’s sister, Cilla, especially after we discover that (gasp!) she had a secret romance with a Norman nobleman! (Pssst, Jenni: I really, really hope their story will become a book of its own!)
I would recommend this book to…well, basically everyone, but especially to readers who care more about the story and the characters than explicit sex scenes. Fletcher does a lot with anticipation and building tension, and the sex scenes are definitely sexy, but if you’re the kind of person who wants graphic consummation this might not be the book for you. I would also recommend this to lovers of historical romance, as the book is deeply steeped in period details. I already want to read it again just so I can relish them!
In a land torn apart by war and hate, two people are drawn together by an undeniable attraction…
In Married to Her Enemy, Jenni Fletcher’s absolutely fantastic debut novel, a Norman warrior and a Saxon noblewoman meet as deadly adversaries. Aediva, our heroine, has plenty of reasons to hate the Normans: they took her homeland, they made outlaws of her people, and they murdered her beloved father. When a band of their soldiers is sighted making its way toward her village, she knows she has only one choice: she must fight.
When the soldiers arrive, Aediva attacks the first one she sees: a giant Dane-turned-Norman called Svend du Danemark. Svend, despite his stature and Norman allegiance, is kind to the beautiful and very feist Aediva, responding to her attempt to stab him to death with some ninja-style disarmament skills and only a bit of annoyance. In classic romance fashion, Svend and Aediva’s tussle results in physical closeness that, despite the charged situation, ignites desire in them both. *Elinor fans self with book.*
The story that follows this wonderful scene is a classic case of mistaken identity, in which Svend confuses Aediva for her sister, Cilla, whom King William has ordered him to capture. Aediva continues the charade in an effort to protect her sister, and so off she goes as the hostage/guest of a very handsome, blue-eyed knight. In the course of their travels the two face illness, rain storms, armed rebels, and a whole host of misunderstandings, arriving to their destination very much in love but still separated by past wounds and hidden truths. Svend’s discovery of Aediva’s true identity almost destroys their chance at happiness, but a forced marriage and the eventual confession of their love for one another ultimately brings them together for good. Hurrah for happy endings!
As you’ve surely already guess, I absolutely adored this book. It’s a funny, poignant, profoundly romantic story set in a world about which I’ve always been very curious (I mean, who doesn’t want to know everything about the aftermath of the Norman invasion?!). The historical details make that world come alive, as does Fletcher’s clear, precise prose. I was instantly invested in the burgeoning affections of Aediva and Svend, and deeply moved by the pain they both felt after years of loss and struggle. Their chemistry is off the charts, and the slow burn of their desire for each other was hugely appealing. You really come to hope and worry for the hero and heroine and you’re overjoyed when they finally get together. As a romance reader, there’s nothing I love more than that!
Another thing I love? That I don’t hate anyone in this book! (Well, except maybe the terrible King William, who’s referenced here and there.) Instead, almost all the characters are surprisingly admirable, and may of them are even endearing. Aediva and Svend are noble, reliable, and courageous, but not so much so they we can’t see them as real people. The supporting cast is clever and caring, and even the conniving Earl FitzOsbern seems redeemable in his own way. I was really interested in learning more about Aediva’s sister, Cilla, especially after we discover that (gasp!) she had a secret romance with a Norman nobleman! (Pssst, Jenni: I really, really hope their story will become a book of its own!)
I would recommend this book to…well, basically everyone, but especially to readers who care more about the story and the characters than explicit sex scenes. Fletcher does a lot with anticipation and building tension, and the sex scenes are definitely sexy, but if you’re the kind of person who wants graphic consummation this might not be the book for you. I would also recommend this to lovers of historical romance, as the book is deeply steeped in period details. I already want to read it again just so I can relish them!
February 1, 2024
1.5/2 Stars
I'll admit, the first 30-40% this one was interesting and it showed potential. Sadly though as the story goes on the more things begin to fall apart.
While I did enjoy how this book was written and that we didn't dwell heavily on the MCs inner thoughts for pages upon pages like other HQN novels, it also had plenty of faults.
1. The heroine Aediva's hair color seemed to be constantly changing. Described as dark, hazel (how??), then dark but kissed by the sun, and lastly caught between light brown and dark blonde. At one point even the heroine mentioned light colored strands in front of her face but mostly they referred to her hair as dark. Regardless, it was rather confusing.
2. Aediva was so bullheaded and full of stubborn Saxon pride that it nearly made the story unreadable. I understand she hated Normans and why she seemed so passionate about hating them once she meets the hero but after watching her find the Normans and the hero to be likeable, kind and respectful towards her despite her beliefs she would quickly give us whiplash (and the hero tbh) by diving headfirst into another hate fueled rant or argument about horrible Normans. It was exhausting and I honestly don't see what the hero Svend found so appealing about her behavior. She was so stubborn and it didn't make her look any better by the fact the Svend was quite patient with her and her outbursts and disrespect. He was understanding and calm in the face of her fury most of the time that she just came across like a child throwing a tantrum.
3. The hero Svend's backstory which included him being outlawed and wrongfully blamed for stealing jewels when in fact it was this woman, Maren, whom he thought he loved at the time who stole them and begged for his help. So, being young and dumb he took the fall and lost everything because naturally this Maren chick didn't love him and only played him. So, of course he doesn't trust women or particularly the heroine because of this. Which tbh I can understand his wariness because of his past experience BUT it played a very big role in the relationship between the MCs and I found that the author liked to use it like she did the heroines prejudice against Normans as impromptu hurdles everytime she needed another reason for them to be arguing (which was majority of the book) or to be distant with each other.
4. I also found the drama of Svend finding out Aediva lied about who she was by pretending to be her sister (50% in btw) to be far too overblown. Yes, Svend had trust issues and all that BUT he whined about it as if it changed WHO Aediva was when all she did was lie about her name. Her behavior with him while they traveled and the times they conversed and kissed were all Aediva. There was no acting or pretending, Aediva acted like herself all the way to her endless Saxon pride and arguing with him nonstop. And all she did was let him believe she was her sister when he made the assumption when they first met. To make it out like she was so great deceiver was hilarious tbh. It was just dumb.
5. The Aediva's sad decline into too stupid to live behavior. The sheer audacity she had to claim if Svend had given her permission in the first place when she asked all the bad things wouldn't have happened. When in fact he gave her legitimate reasons why he wasn't letting her do what she wanted and she STILL snuck out behind his back to do it DESPITE that they had only just consummated their marriage and agreed to no more secrets between each other so they could build trust. WHY take that risk and potentially ruin your fresh start with your husband??
ESPECIALLY because the risk wasn't the least bit worth it. You want to know why? Let me tell you!
The author had the heroine turn into a dumbass toward the end. You see, the heroine had this guy Edmund who was a neighbor to her father's land and whom her father apparently favored. Naturally her father had pushed for an alliance between them. While Edmund all but salivating over her dowry tried his hand at seducing her or acting as if she was a sure thing due to her father's agreement. From the Aediva's references it seemed he was quite forceful with his kisses and even tried to push her into giving him more before marriage. She spoke of him as if he was a brute and a bully. Even admitted because of him she never wanted to marry and never wanted a man to touch her. So, Edmund was a POS and not worth any effort right? Well, you'd be wrong.
By the end, Edmund is captured by Svend with the other Saxon rebels. Aediva spots Edmund and decides she should speak to Svend about him. She spends a couple paragraphs going on about how she may not care for Edmund but he was a Saxon, her countrymen, and she didn't want him to be imprisoned or killed. So, she plans to ask Svend if he can release him.
I just could not grasp why Aediva would take it upon herself to speak on Edmunds behalf when he was nothing but an ass to her. So he's a Saxon too...so what?! He treated you like shit and frightened you BUT you want to save him from a worse fate when he chose to leave y'all's home to become a rebel anyway?!?!
Honestly if the book wasn't nearly over when this all went down I would ha e DNF'd right then. The author just threw any sense and intelligence the heroine had right out the window and has her acting irrationally and against all better judgement. ESPECIALLY because she KNEW that Svend would feel betrayed if he caught her. She reasoned that he didn't outright forbid her from doing it but told her he couldn't release Edmund and told her no when she asked to speak to Edmund, hoping to make him see reason and surrender to the kings cousin.
If it had been for a good reason, if Edmund had been a decent dude who had been misled or she had truly cared for him at some point I could maybe excuse her dumb behavior as her acting on emotion. Instead it seemed like she was acting on a twisted sense of patriotism and empathy for this asshat despite all evidence of him being a terrible human. It just made her look absolutely FOOLISH particularly in regards to her relationship with the Svend. She risked EVERYTHING that they had just settled for THAT one act of stupidity and for what?! To get kidnapped by Edmund, of course!
Honestly Svend should have just gotten an annulment and moved on. Aediva wasn't worth the trouble.
I'll admit, the first 30-40% this one was interesting and it showed potential. Sadly though as the story goes on the more things begin to fall apart.
While I did enjoy how this book was written and that we didn't dwell heavily on the MCs inner thoughts for pages upon pages like other HQN novels, it also had plenty of faults.
1. The heroine Aediva's hair color seemed to be constantly changing. Described as dark, hazel (how??), then dark but kissed by the sun, and lastly caught between light brown and dark blonde. At one point even the heroine mentioned light colored strands in front of her face but mostly they referred to her hair as dark. Regardless, it was rather confusing.
2. Aediva was so bullheaded and full of stubborn Saxon pride that it nearly made the story unreadable. I understand she hated Normans and why she seemed so passionate about hating them once she meets the hero but after watching her find the Normans and the hero to be likeable, kind and respectful towards her despite her beliefs she would quickly give us whiplash (and the hero tbh) by diving headfirst into another hate fueled rant or argument about horrible Normans. It was exhausting and I honestly don't see what the hero Svend found so appealing about her behavior. She was so stubborn and it didn't make her look any better by the fact the Svend was quite patient with her and her outbursts and disrespect. He was understanding and calm in the face of her fury most of the time that she just came across like a child throwing a tantrum.
3. The hero Svend's backstory which included him being outlawed and wrongfully blamed for stealing jewels when in fact it was this woman, Maren, whom he thought he loved at the time who stole them and begged for his help. So, being young and dumb he took the fall and lost everything because naturally this Maren chick didn't love him and only played him. So, of course he doesn't trust women or particularly the heroine because of this. Which tbh I can understand his wariness because of his past experience BUT it played a very big role in the relationship between the MCs and I found that the author liked to use it like she did the heroines prejudice against Normans as impromptu hurdles everytime she needed another reason for them to be arguing (which was majority of the book) or to be distant with each other.
4. I also found the drama of Svend finding out Aediva lied about who she was by pretending to be her sister (50% in btw) to be far too overblown. Yes, Svend had trust issues and all that BUT he whined about it as if it changed WHO Aediva was when all she did was lie about her name. Her behavior with him while they traveled and the times they conversed and kissed were all Aediva. There was no acting or pretending, Aediva acted like herself all the way to her endless Saxon pride and arguing with him nonstop. And all she did was let him believe she was her sister when he made the assumption when they first met. To make it out like she was so great deceiver was hilarious tbh. It was just dumb.
5. The Aediva's sad decline into too stupid to live behavior. The sheer audacity she had to claim if Svend had given her permission in the first place when she asked all the bad things wouldn't have happened. When in fact he gave her legitimate reasons why he wasn't letting her do what she wanted and she STILL snuck out behind his back to do it DESPITE that they had only just consummated their marriage and agreed to no more secrets between each other so they could build trust. WHY take that risk and potentially ruin your fresh start with your husband??
ESPECIALLY because the risk wasn't the least bit worth it. You want to know why? Let me tell you!
The author had the heroine turn into a dumbass toward the end. You see, the heroine had this guy Edmund who was a neighbor to her father's land and whom her father apparently favored. Naturally her father had pushed for an alliance between them. While Edmund all but salivating over her dowry tried his hand at seducing her or acting as if she was a sure thing due to her father's agreement. From the Aediva's references it seemed he was quite forceful with his kisses and even tried to push her into giving him more before marriage. She spoke of him as if he was a brute and a bully. Even admitted because of him she never wanted to marry and never wanted a man to touch her. So, Edmund was a POS and not worth any effort right? Well, you'd be wrong.
By the end, Edmund is captured by Svend with the other Saxon rebels. Aediva spots Edmund and decides she should speak to Svend about him. She spends a couple paragraphs going on about how she may not care for Edmund but he was a Saxon, her countrymen, and she didn't want him to be imprisoned or killed. So, she plans to ask Svend if he can release him.
I just could not grasp why Aediva would take it upon herself to speak on Edmunds behalf when he was nothing but an ass to her. So he's a Saxon too...so what?! He treated you like shit and frightened you BUT you want to save him from a worse fate when he chose to leave y'all's home to become a rebel anyway?!?!
Honestly if the book wasn't nearly over when this all went down I would ha e DNF'd right then. The author just threw any sense and intelligence the heroine had right out the window and has her acting irrationally and against all better judgement. ESPECIALLY because she KNEW that Svend would feel betrayed if he caught her. She reasoned that he didn't outright forbid her from doing it but told her he couldn't release Edmund and told her no when she asked to speak to Edmund, hoping to make him see reason and surrender to the kings cousin.
If it had been for a good reason, if Edmund had been a decent dude who had been misled or she had truly cared for him at some point I could maybe excuse her dumb behavior as her acting on emotion. Instead it seemed like she was acting on a twisted sense of patriotism and empathy for this asshat despite all evidence of him being a terrible human. It just made her look absolutely FOOLISH particularly in regards to her relationship with the Svend. She risked EVERYTHING that they had just settled for THAT one act of stupidity and for what?! To get kidnapped by Edmund, of course!
Honestly Svend should have just gotten an annulment and moved on. Aediva wasn't worth the trouble.
December 13, 2016
Goodreads Signed Win
She would do anything for her sister even pretending to be herand be taken as a prisoner.
Lady Aediva of Etton finds herself in the hands of Sir Svend du Danemark when he mistakes her for her older sister who he is sent to escort back. She does not know the reason why her sister returned home suddenly to have her baby.
Svend serves William the Conqueror as he was once betrayed by a woman he thought he loved. He finds himself falling for her despite her hatred of the Normans. As they clash between them as both see the worst in each other. But is there something more than that between them as things heat up?
Enjoyable historical romance with sparks.
She would do anything for her sister even pretending to be herand be taken as a prisoner.
Lady Aediva of Etton finds herself in the hands of Sir Svend du Danemark when he mistakes her for her older sister who he is sent to escort back. She does not know the reason why her sister returned home suddenly to have her baby.
Svend serves William the Conqueror as he was once betrayed by a woman he thought he loved. He finds himself falling for her despite her hatred of the Normans. As they clash between them as both see the worst in each other. But is there something more than that between them as things heat up?
Enjoyable historical romance with sparks.
Read
February 17, 2017"Fletcher makes a delightful Harlequin debut with a sensual tale between a Saxon wildcat and a Norman warrior. Medieval fans will love the pageantry, the original setting and the surprises at every turn" (4 stars @ RT Book Reviews).
January 5, 2017
Plot: 4/5
Characterisation: 3/5
Prose: 3/5
How much I enjoyed it: 3/5
Characterisation: 3/5
Prose: 3/5
How much I enjoyed it: 3/5
May 14, 2017
A stunning Medieval historical that brings the past to vivid and colourful life, Married to Her Enemy is a fantastic debut novel from a very talented new author: Jenni Fletcher!
Lady Aediva of Etton would do absolutely anything to protect her family – even jeopardise her own life by lying to the enemy. With her sister Cille about to give birth and the Normans almost upon them, Aediva knows that she must act fast for a single moment of delay could result in the loss of everything which she holds dear to her heart. Assuming her sister’s identity is the only option available to her if she wants to save Cille’s life, but little does Aediva realise that being Svend of Denmark’s captive is going to unleash a maelstrom of long-buried feelings and emotions that are going to turn her entire world upside down.
After the devastating betrayal of the woman he had loved above anyone else in the world, Svend had hardened his heart and built impenetrable walls around himself. He is not interested in forming attachments with women or in relationships, but just wants to do his duty by William the Conqueror and rebuild the shattered pieces of his life. Having been assigned the task to quash the Saxon rebellion, Svend thinks that escorting Lady Cille to safety would be a job like any other, but he is ill-prepared for the headstrong, aggravating and stunningly beautiful woman who has become his captor who manages to get under his skin. Unable to stop himself from thinking about her, Svend finds himself unable to resist her – even though he is well aware that she is betrothed to another!
When Aediva had assumed her sister’s identity, she had never imagined that she would find herself falling in love with the enemy. But as her feelings for Svend develop into something more, her lies and deception soon begin to catch up with her. With her secrets about to be revealed, Aediva must fight for her sister’s safety and her survival, but when Svend uncovers the truth about her identity, will he find the courage to forgive her and fight for her? Or will Aediva’s betrayal end up costing her everything?
With so much standing in their way, does Svend and Aediva’s love stand a chance of surviving? Or is their relationship doomed to fail?
Jenni Fletcher plunges the reader into a world of passion, danger and deception from the very first page and keeps them enthralled from beginning to end. A terrific storyteller who tells a story rich in period detail, vivid atmosphere, searing emotion, nail-biting drama and poignant romance, Jenni Fletcher writes with great gusto, flair and style and will make her readers fall in love with courageous and valiant Aediva and honourable and dashing Svend.
Married to Her Enemy is a wonderfully written historical romance that will sweep readers away and have them eagerly awaiting the next compelling tale by a writer set to become a huge favourite with romance readers everywhere – Jenni Fletcher!
Lady Aediva of Etton would do absolutely anything to protect her family – even jeopardise her own life by lying to the enemy. With her sister Cille about to give birth and the Normans almost upon them, Aediva knows that she must act fast for a single moment of delay could result in the loss of everything which she holds dear to her heart. Assuming her sister’s identity is the only option available to her if she wants to save Cille’s life, but little does Aediva realise that being Svend of Denmark’s captive is going to unleash a maelstrom of long-buried feelings and emotions that are going to turn her entire world upside down.
After the devastating betrayal of the woman he had loved above anyone else in the world, Svend had hardened his heart and built impenetrable walls around himself. He is not interested in forming attachments with women or in relationships, but just wants to do his duty by William the Conqueror and rebuild the shattered pieces of his life. Having been assigned the task to quash the Saxon rebellion, Svend thinks that escorting Lady Cille to safety would be a job like any other, but he is ill-prepared for the headstrong, aggravating and stunningly beautiful woman who has become his captor who manages to get under his skin. Unable to stop himself from thinking about her, Svend finds himself unable to resist her – even though he is well aware that she is betrothed to another!
When Aediva had assumed her sister’s identity, she had never imagined that she would find herself falling in love with the enemy. But as her feelings for Svend develop into something more, her lies and deception soon begin to catch up with her. With her secrets about to be revealed, Aediva must fight for her sister’s safety and her survival, but when Svend uncovers the truth about her identity, will he find the courage to forgive her and fight for her? Or will Aediva’s betrayal end up costing her everything?
With so much standing in their way, does Svend and Aediva’s love stand a chance of surviving? Or is their relationship doomed to fail?
Jenni Fletcher plunges the reader into a world of passion, danger and deception from the very first page and keeps them enthralled from beginning to end. A terrific storyteller who tells a story rich in period detail, vivid atmosphere, searing emotion, nail-biting drama and poignant romance, Jenni Fletcher writes with great gusto, flair and style and will make her readers fall in love with courageous and valiant Aediva and honourable and dashing Svend.
Married to Her Enemy is a wonderfully written historical romance that will sweep readers away and have them eagerly awaiting the next compelling tale by a writer set to become a huge favourite with romance readers everywhere – Jenni Fletcher!
October 9, 2025
Married to Her Enemy by Jenni Fletcher is a beautifully wrought historical romance that captures both the fire of conflict and the tenderness of forbidden love. Set in the turbulent aftermath of the Norman Conquest, the novel blends political intrigue, emotional vulnerability, and a slow burning passion that feels both timeless and intimate.
Lady Aediva’s courage and devotion to her sister set the tone for a heroine whose strength lies not only in defiance but also in compassion. Sir Svend, scarred by betrayal yet driven by duty, is a complex counterpart whose guarded heart begins to thaw in unexpected ways. Fletcher’s storytelling shines in the balance she strikes between historical realism and emotional intensity each scene steeped in tension, sacrifice, and unspoken longing.
What makes Married to Her Enemy stand out is its emotional honesty. It’s not merely a story about love found in unlikely places it’s about redemption, trust, and the human capacity to heal, even after war and betrayal. A must read for lovers of medieval romance and resilient heroines.
Lady Aediva’s courage and devotion to her sister set the tone for a heroine whose strength lies not only in defiance but also in compassion. Sir Svend, scarred by betrayal yet driven by duty, is a complex counterpart whose guarded heart begins to thaw in unexpected ways. Fletcher’s storytelling shines in the balance she strikes between historical realism and emotional intensity each scene steeped in tension, sacrifice, and unspoken longing.
What makes Married to Her Enemy stand out is its emotional honesty. It’s not merely a story about love found in unlikely places it’s about redemption, trust, and the human capacity to heal, even after war and betrayal. A must read for lovers of medieval romance and resilient heroines.
April 17, 2018
Having just read a load of regency romances, I thought I'd try something different and read a book with a medieval setting.
Aediva hates Normans (she's a Saxon). So when big, blonde Norman dude Svend comes crashing into her village, she's not happy about it. Svend, incidentally, is a Dane and not actually Norman ... but to all intents and purposes he is the enemy.
I liked that Aediva is a 'Saxon wildcat'. Her conversations with Svend are interesting to read.
The medieval setting was really interesting and unusual. I liked that the characters were realistically young too. I really cared for them.
Good characters, great dialogue, interesting setting, lots of fighting with swords... what more could you ask for?
Aediva hates Normans (she's a Saxon). So when big, blonde Norman dude Svend comes crashing into her village, she's not happy about it. Svend, incidentally, is a Dane and not actually Norman ... but to all intents and purposes he is the enemy.
I liked that Aediva is a 'Saxon wildcat'. Her conversations with Svend are interesting to read.
The medieval setting was really interesting and unusual. I liked that the characters were realistically young too. I really cared for them.
Good characters, great dialogue, interesting setting, lots of fighting with swords... what more could you ask for?
July 6, 2018
Such a fabulous read! I fell in love with the medieval world from the off, the author manages to submerge you into it with such ease and the sparks between Aediva and Svend leap from the page the second they meet (and boy did I love this scene!). She’s a sprightly wildcat and he’s a towering hunk of a warrior, their roles in life ensuring they are destined to hate one another. Which only makes their attraction all the more powerful on the page. The tale is packed with exciting events and you're kept on the edge of your seat right up until the very end. I can't wait to discover more from this author.
February 3, 2018
Four stars for the background and the setting - this is a medieval that feels like a medieval. However, the plotting could use some work - the final climax came out of nowhere, and the relationships between various characters were very up-and-down. I'm looking forward to seeing what else Fletcher writes.
September 22, 2019
I loved reading about Aediva’s adventures and how she finally ended up with her true love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 26, 2024
Just okay.
January 24, 2017
This was a good book. I did have two small problems with it but for now what I liked. For an author's debut book this was good. I enjoyed reading about both main characters; they were engaging and fun to read. I loved that I thought things in the book would go one way but they went another.
The only problem is the back description of the book doesn't really fit as well to an overview of what the story is. Also the title just doesn't quite fit to me. I completely thought they'd be married throughout most of the book not the last few chapters. Also as the back description said Svend is quash the Saxon uprising -- that was also only the last few chapters.
Overall I enjoyed the book, would read again, would recommend it and will definitely look forward to other books by this author.
The only problem is the back description of the book doesn't really fit as well to an overview of what the story is. Also the title just doesn't quite fit to me. I completely thought they'd be married throughout most of the book not the last few chapters. Also as the back description said Svend is quash the Saxon uprising -- that was also only the last few chapters.
Overall I enjoyed the book, would read again, would recommend it and will definitely look forward to other books by this author.
February 2, 2017
Harlequin Historical have a shining talent in Jenni Fletcher. Her writing of the period is top notch, and the characters are just what you want them to be. The men are strong, flawed and the women run rings around them! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel and I shall be adding Fletcher to my list of favourite authors. For those of you wanting a romance with a bit of a twist, look no further. The plot is not laid bare from the first few pages either, so there is plenty to keep you turning the pages right till to satisfying end.
February 5, 2017
This book was an absolute delight to read! I was intrigued by the setting and context of the Norman invasion, but even more so by the characters. Lady Aediva pretends to be her sister, Cille, and is taken captive by the handsome Sir Svend du Danemark. The chemistry between these characters is gripping, and the ever-present threat of danger heightened the tension throughout the book. The author did a wonderful job of creating characters you can identify with and her writing is fresh and appealing. I recommend this book to anyone who loves romance, especially the enemies-to-lovers arc.
January 22, 2017
This book was good. It's not often I read historical fiction, as I normally find most difficult to get into, but this book proved to be more interesting than others I've attempted to read. I enjoyed the characters, the plot and the story and many who enjoy historical fiction would enjoy reading this.
*won as a GoodReads Giveaway*
*won as a GoodReads Giveaway*
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