Το Μεγαλείο του Έρωτα

by Julie Garwood, Ειρήνη Παϊδούση (Translator)

Αγγλία, στα χρόνια του Μεσαίωνα. Ένα ολόκληρο βασίλειο βρίσκεται σε αναβρασμό, καθώς οι πόλεμοι μεταξύ των ευγενών σκορπίζουν το θάνατο και την καταστροφή. Η Λαίδη Μάντελεϊν βρίσκεται άθελά της στο επίκεντρο της διαμάχης του τυραννικού αδελφού της, Βαρόνου Λούντον, και του ορκισμένου εχθρού, του έντιμου Βαρόνου Ντάνκαν Γουέξτον, γνωστού σε ολόκληρο το βασίλειο με το προσωνύμιο Λύκος.
Ο Ντάνκαν κάνει πράξη το σχέδιό του να απαγάγει τη Μάντελεϊν και την οδηγεί στο κάστρο του, αφού πρώτα της δίνει το λόγο του πως δε θα τη βλάψει. Σύντομα η καλοσύνη και η ομορφιά της κοπέλας θα κλέψουν την καρδιά του ατρόμητου πολεμιστή, ενώ και η Μάντελεϊν με τη σειρά της θα ερωτευτεί παράφορα τον Ντάνκαν. Μαζί θα αντιμετωπίσουν τους κινδύνους μιας από τις πιο συγκλονιστικές περιόδους της Ιστορίας και θα παραδοθούν ολόψυχα στο μεγαλείο του έρωτα...

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Medieval, Historical Fiction, Medieval Romance, Fiction

464 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1987

About the author

With more than 35 million books in print and 26 NEW YORK TIMES bestsellers, Julie Garwood has earned a position among America's favorite fiction writers.

Born and raised in Kansas City, MO, Ms. Garwood attributes much of her success to growing up in a large family of Irish heritage. "The Irish are great storytellers who relish getting all of the details and nuances of every situation. Add in the fact that I was the sixth of seven children. Early in life, I learned that self expression had to be forceful, imaginative, and quick," says Ms. Garwood.

She began her writing career when the youngest of her three children entered school. After the publications of two young-adult books, she turned her talents to historical fiction. Her first novel, GENTLE WARRIOR, was published by Pocket Books in 1985. Since then, she has branched into other genres including contemporary romantic suspense. Today, her name appears regularly on the bestseller lists of every major publication in the country, and her books are translated into dozens of languages around the world. Her bestselling novel FOR THE ROSES was adapted for the HALLMARK HALL OF FAME television movie ROSE HILL.

Ms. Garwood lives in Leawood, KS and is currently working on her next novel.

Reviews

[Val ⚓️ Shameless Handmaiden ⚓️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Re-read: 12/11/22
Re-read: 10/17/21

I've been slowly replacing my ginormous collection of classic romance mass market paperbacks by Julie Garwood, Linda Howard, Judith McNaught, Sandra Brown, etc., as their kindle counterpart goes on sale.

This one came up this week and I thought it was the perfect time to re-read it for the millionth time.

Review:

There is just nothing better than classic Julie Garwood. Nothing. I would die on the classic Julie Garwood romance hill.

I LOVE Duncan and Madelyne and their story. From beginning to end. Love every second, every time.

[EmBibliophile · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This is my fourth Julia Garwood’s book and so far all of her books kind of have the same plot? But still I’m finding them so addictive to read? I guess I’m just enjoying their simplistic form so much to care.

Madelyn saves Duncan who has been held captive by her brother. After setting him free and helping him escape she discovers that he intentionally gotten himself into that position because he has a bigger plan which includes kidnapping her.

This book won me over with that first chapter! I don’t know why but I just thought that it was funny and cute.

I loved Madelyn so much and her uncontrolled honesty. Duncan was a traditional HR hero. He was such an arrogant alpha male but with honour and a soft side. The banter was so freakin enjoyable and hilarious! There were many sweet moments between the characters that I enjoyed. Overall, this was such a fun time from the very first chapter.

[TJ ☾ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

this is why you can't do something nice for a man. warm his feet one time and he'll kidnap u and force u into marriage 🙄

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have this memory of reading Honor's Splendour as a sixteen-year-old, and I chuckle at how much I've changed from that sweet and innocent little flower. I believed that once I found my true love, I would want to warm his feet if he ever needed it. Let's just say, I love hubby but he'd have to pay me BIG BUCKS to touch, let alone warm his feet. I love him though, so I'd buy him a pair of warm woolly socks. ;-)

LOVE this story. Can't say I'm a huge fan of the narrator, especially when she's performing the sexy times. A little too husky, sex-line for me.

I will be back for more Julie Garwood I'm sure, she is, after all, one of the Queens of Historical Romance.

**********

I did plan to take a little longer to listen to this one...

I forgot how much I LOVE this story, and how funny it was. I can't help but swoon when the big tough hero comes to realise that the temptress he kidnapped has the power to bring him to his knees. Duncan and Madelyn's love story was one of the first romance books I read as a teenager. Julie Garwood is still one of my favouritist historical romance authors and it broke my heart that she no longer writes them. I like her contemporary romances, I LOVE her historical romances.

The audio was good but the narrator's voice could get a little annoying sometimes. I really love re-reading/listening to my favourite historical romances and this will definitely be a regular step back in time for me.

I originally planned to take a little longer listening to this one but once I started, I just couldn't stop. I highly recommend this audio.

****

Where's my gallant hero when I need him...

This was a re-read of one of my favourite Julie Garwood historical romances.

Whenever I think of this story I always remember it for the beautiful beginning when the heroine warms the feet of the hero.

Julie Garwood's stories make me want to step back in time to meet a gallant hero who will lift me on to his horse, tuck my head under his chin and protect me from all dangers.

This story is about a woman who has lived a life of fear from her abusive brother. Madelyn was sent away when she was younger to live with her elderly uncle who was a priest. In this time she was taught to read and enjoyed wonderful stories about characters including Odysseus. When she was forced to return to her brother she would remember the stories and retreat into her mind and imagine Odysseus would watch over her and protect her. I think she wished to have her own Odysseus.

When Duncan, the hero, has his feet warmed by a lady trying to save him, he was shocked to realise that she was the lady he planned to kidnap. After Duncan's men attack the fortress, he decides to keep Madelyn and take her home with him.

I don't want to give away the whole story, so I'll say that this was the start of a connection that grew between them. The story is filled with passion, intrigue and excitement that kept me riveted from the beginning to the end.

This is one of my favourite historical romances and Julie Garwood is a legend in this genre. I think I will have to start including a weekly re-read of some of my Favourites...maybe The Secret will be next.

[Rain · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the one where she defrosts his frozen feet by placing them on her warm stomach 🥹

A little too syrupy at times for me, but a beautiful love story overall.

[UniquelyMoi ~ BlithelyBookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say, I have yet to read a Julie Garwood novel that I don't love, but there was something special about Honor's Splendour that makes it stand out in my mind and has made it one of my favorite reads.

Garwood's books feature women who, though they might not know it at the time, are strong, honorable, compassionate and very wise. Watching them come into their own is such an enjoyable experience.

The same can be said for the men of her novels. They are usually gruff, arrogant and very set in their ways, but at all times honorable.

Now to Honor's Splendour.

Seeking revenge, Baron Duncan of Wexton sets out to kidnap Madelyne, the sister of Baron Louddon, the man responsible for the brutal attack on Duncan's sister, Adela. What happens though, he could never have anticipated. Madelyne became the captor, holding Duncan's heart as no other woman ever has.

Madelyne spent years being abused by her brother,Baron Louddon, and has finally had enough. Packing her few belongings, she waits for the right moment to leave her brother's fortress, hoping to find safety in Scotland at the home of her cousin. As she awaits the moment she can escape, she spots Baron Duncan, stripped of clothing and tied to a post in the courtyard, left to die in the freezing night. Unaware of Duncan's purpose for being there--to kidnap her, she risks all to set him free, to protect him from her brother. What she didn't realize was that Duncan didn't need rescuing. Allowing himself to be captured was part of the plan for he and his men to gain access to the fortress, and Madelyne, herself.

Freeing Duncan from his bindings and gathering his clothes, Madelyne takes him into the visting priests quarters behind the chapel where one simple act of compassion will change her life--and his, forever.

Which leads me to my favorite quote from the book, found on page 28 and gave me one of those *sigh* moments that I love so much: "Lady Madelyne had sealed her own fate. She'd warmed his feet."

Julie Garwood has become one of my favorite authors and Honor's Splendour one of my favorite books.

[Dora Koutsoukou · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,5 💘💘💘💘🌟🌟🌟🌟s❣️

What more can I add for this beautiful and wonderful story, that other readers haven’t already posted...

It was a fantastic read for me!! 🤩

[Mareeva · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Ah yes, just what I deserved. A proper, much belated vacation.

This book was a ray of sunshine in my snow infested world (yes where I live it's still fucking snowing and it's May 2nd)

This book basically had everything I didn't know I needed:

➼ Medieval England
➼ Cold, stoic, alpha hero
➼ Sweet, slightly naive heroine that never fails to stand up for herself & challenge the hero
➼ Heroine is the sister of hero's enemy (is also abused by her brother)
➼ Hero takes heroine captive (after she cluelessly attempts to save his life too)
➼ Forced marriage
➼ HILARIOUS banter
➼ Heroine brings light into hero's monotonous, grey life + wins over his disapproving family
➼ No misunderstandings, thank fuck.
➼ I repeat, HILARIOUS banter. I laughed so freaking much during this book
➼ Engaging plot with just enough exciting scenes to keep me on my toes
➼ HEA

Madelyne whispered, “I think I would rather belong to no man.”
Duncan heard her. A slow smile crossed his face. What Lady Madelyne wanted wasn’t the least significant to him. Aye, she belonged to him now, whether she wished it or not.
Lady Madelyne had sealed her own fate.
She’d warmed his feet.

[NMmomof4 · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was better than I thought it'd be! I'm not sure why, but I just wasn't expecting all that much for some reason. I enjoyed the dialogue/banter, the characters, and their connection! It was steamier than I was expecting for a HR too! I think I need to read some more from this author, because I do enjoy her writing style. If anyone has a recommendation for any more of her works -- please send them my way!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Madelyne and Duncan's story. They meet when Madelyne chances her brother's fury when she saves Duncan from being held captive. Duncan was planning all along to kidnap Madelyne to get revenge for her brother's crimes against his sister. When they spend more time together, Madelyne is not what Duncan was expecting and he can't help but fall in love with her. Madelyne is damaged from her brother's abuse so it takes a while for her to understand her own value to others, but she quickly gains the loyalty of Duncan's people. There are some suspenseful moments, some sexy times, and some funny and sweet scenes...and they get a HEA ending.

POV: This alternated between focusing on Madelyne and Duncan in 3rd person narrative.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed, and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No, they take a bit before they develop stronger feelings.

H rating: 4.5 stars. Duncan. I really liked him! He was alpha but also didn't hesitate to show his affections and be sweet to the h when she needed it.

h rating: 4.5 stars. Madelyne. I really liked her too! She was smart, sweet, and super protective.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes There are times when they both push away as well as pursue the relationship.

Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW/OM drama: Yes, but mild The H had a woman that he was interested in before the h. The h is jealous when she finds out about her, and the OW is in one scene confronting the h.

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: No. Once they're together they never separate (they do separate physically but not in the relationship sense).

Possible Triggers: Yes Physical and emotional abuse (h's brother to h), rape of side character (off page), and violence/death (on page)

Closure: This had pretty good closure with what I would call a HEA they're married and she is pregnant. I still would've liked a farther glimpse into their future though with maybe their own family as well as the h connecting with the family that she newly discovered at the end.

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers

- Does Not have cheating
- Does Not have a descriptive sex scene with OW/OM
- Does have the h and H both pushing away
- Does Not have a separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse
- Does have a HEA ending

[Rose May · Rating 1 out of 5]

Note: This review, and all my reviews, comes from my blog - Romantic Rose's Bookshelf (http://romantic-rosesblog.blogspot.com)

Chest-beating primates, mysterious wolves, and swooning, bi-polar, PMSing tiger/kitten mixes, oh my!

(I should warn you the following is a REALLY long rant review with only one positive paragraph at the end. Feel free at any time to skip to the 'bottom line' portion of the review, to get the gist of it)

This book was my first Julie Garwood ever, and I am happy to say it will be my last. Never again will I disgrace my mind with such folly. The book started out, well, interesting. I actually enjoyed the first two or three chapters. Our heroine, Madelyne, starts us off by freeing her brother’s captive, Duncan Wexton, and saving him from death by freezing. She warms his feet for him, and it is apparently that act of kindness (not the risking her life by freeing him of course) that prompts him to declare her ‘his’. His men rush over the wall, kill all of her brother, Louddon’s, men and whisk her away as a captive. Keep in mind that our 'ever-compassionate' soon-to-be-paragone-of-a-heroine saves a servant from death during the battle by standing in front of him and proclaiming that she will die before the servants. No one kills her, or moves her out of the way, and the servants go free, owing their lives to the wonderful Madelyne.

Duncan burns Louddon’s home to the ground, and begins the journey with his men and Madelyne, and this is where the trouble starts as we begin to discover how absolutely PERFECT he is. He’s the bestest!!! He’s the greatest warrior, and since he trained his men they’re invincible (as in, not a single man of his dies in the attack on Louddon’s fortress, despite taking on an entire army) just like him! Madelyne mentions at some point she believes him the most handsome man in England. He’s so kind, too, and sweet and protective and fierce and strong and handsome and masculine and he’s just so great cause he’s always thinking of her and he’s sensitive but manly and aloof and he’s really hot cause he doesn’t die or act cold even when he’s freezing to death and he’s able to control his body’s natural reaction to shiver because he’s just so amazing and wonderful and fantastical – you get the picture. He’s perfection, and it’s really annoying. By the middle of the book, I was ready to throttle him – though no more than I was ready to throttle Madelyne.

Madelyne had the issue that she was never the same character twice. She was totally unpredictable, in as much that she had no solid base. There was no common thread to her character. She was all over the place. Here are some examples: first Garwood shows us how weak Madelyne is by having her struggle against Duncan, even punch him in the face, and not hurt him or make any headway. Later, she walks through a battlefield, injured, and swings a mace hard enough to kill a man. She also hip-checks Edmond the giant, causing him to stumble, and when she punches HIM in the face it gives him quite the colorful bruise. Inconsistent? I think so. Another example. Garwood gives us several examples of Madelyne’s innocence in regard to men. In fact, it’s kind of humorous how little she knows and the fun conversations that ensue - that I loved. Yet the first time they kiss, SHE kisses HIM. And Garwood tells us how wild and passionate and uninhibited she is. This makes no sense! When its Duncan and Madelyne’s first time, she’s all shy again – about her nudity and everything. They’ll make wild, uninhibited, ‘tigress’ love (which, by the way, is a terrible mental image because it literally makes me think of a tiger in bed with Duncan) and then she’ll go back to being horribly shy. And then, once again, just to confuse us, she’ll suddenly decide not to be shy anymore.

More examples? She faints erratically. She glares then is meek, is emotionally aloof then warm and pliant, is defiant then tame. Her behavior is nonsensical. It seems Garwood is trying to make Madelyne confusing – we see that in how the men say they can’t figure out or understand Madelyne. But while its okay for the other characters not to understand Madelyne, the reader should always be able to understand her and her motives, and that we could not do. Lastly, Madelyne becomes a paragon in the book – a little clumsy, but she never lies and is virtuous and beautiful and humble and loved by animals and children alike. Ugh. Give me a break.

I will also make a case of Madelyne’s stupidity. She’s far too trusting on certain occasions – like with Edmond, Duncan’s oaf of a brother. When she first meets him, despite his roaring, yelling, shouting etc, she looks up at him ‘with eyes so trusting it made him pause’. Yeah. Gag me. She also trusts Duncan though he turned and took her as his captive in order to get vengeance on her brother. And what of this captive business? Madelyne, despite how we are told she’s such a defiant, free spirit, never makes an actual escape attempt. Its like she has courage to yell about the awful eating habits of the men but not over her captivity. When one doesn't try to escape captivity, it makes us feel like you want to be there, hon.

Also, I despise Madelyne’s treatment of Adela – Duncan’s sister. Adela has been raped, and is a filthy, mean mess because of it. Now, it is in my experience that rape victim’s usually take care to be extra extra clean because they feel dirty and they do not become loud and belligerent but quiet and withdrawn. But, of course, rather than mold her to reality, Garwood molds her to suit her purposes. Madelyne’s treatment of Adela, to me, is horrible. She adopts a tough love, philosophy, which is fine. But forcing her to take a bath and forcing her head underwater – and calling her filthy, even if only in the literal sense? It shows a lack of compassion for what the other woman went through. A total lack of empathy or sympathy and it made me angry at Garwood for putting Adela through that.

Now, enough about my hatred for Madelyne’s consistently annoying, unbelievable character. What is with the men? In totally inappropriate situations, Gilard, Edmond, and Gerald shout in anger, when there has been little to no provocation. In fact, it’s not just the ‘loud anger’ that is overblown in this book. Characters will laugh at lines that aren’t funny, or cry at things that don’t warrant an emotional outburst. It gives me the feeling Garwood was trying to make her characters seem more merry than they were or make the events seem more devastating or emotional then they were. It was all very false feeling.

Some other key problems? Madelyne is forced to marry Duncan – by Duncan. That’s just not the stuff romance books are made of. They also make love in a freezing cold lake as if there’s no chill at all. Be real, night-time river fun is only endearing for the reader if you haven’t made such a huge point about how cold the river is before hand. Otherwise, as I’m reading all the romantic lines I’m thinking about the two of them shivering against one another.

Finally, there’s too much sub-drama, or mini-plots. Madelyne with Duncan got lost amidst Madelyne with Gilard, Adela, Silenus, Edmond, Loddoun, the non-priest, and Madelyne with the wolf plus the conflicts between the King and his brother, Adela and Gerald, Gerald and Morcar, and the whole Madelyne finding-out-she’s-a-bastard-child thing. There were too many other dramas going on for the author to focus on the main conflict and truly build it up – or to build up any of the smaller conflicts. Thus, the main conflict felt a bit like a mini-conflict to me. The entire book was dull and lack-luster because it was just a mini-revelation followed by another mini-revelation with no suspense to make us care about the revelations at all. Many of those characters could, and should, have been eliminated. They served little purpose and were actually quite ridiculous (the wolf, for instance. That was just stupid and silly).

This book was saved in my eyes by the suspenseful beginning (Chapters 1 and 2) and the end. There are, admittedly, some great lines between Madelyne and Lady Eleanor and Madelyne is much less annoying by the end. The ending was satisfactory, most ends are tied – though I can’t help wondering if there was ever going to be books written about Edmond or Gilard, because their stories are left unsatisfied. The author does write beautifully, I will say that in her defense. Her sentences were fluid and eloquent, and I think my favorite parts were when she was talking about nature – because the characters weren’t making a mess of things with their terrible, inconsistent, inhuman personalities. So the language was good. The book was competently written, but that won’t encourage me to pick up another Garwood anytime soon. But, by all means, if you feel there’s a Garwood I should try, comment or send me an email at romanticrosemay@yahoo.com and I’ll try again.

“Sexy”ness rating: Hot + Traditional

Overall Rating: D

Bottom Line: If you like… well… if you like Julie Garwood you’ll like this book. If you like chest-beating hunks and wilting, fainting women this is probably a book for you. If you like characters with unique personalities, this book is NOT for you. Also, there’s little humor throughout this book, only some at the beginning so if you like comedy this is a no-no.

[Blacky *Romance Addict* · Rating 5 out of 5]

What will you get if you decide to read this book?

1. Wonderful writing
2. A beautiful story
3. A fierce warrior for a hero
4. A herione that has great character
5. Total and utter enjoyment

For me, this was a pure 5 star book <3


1. Wonderful writing - Julie Garwood has an amazing style. I just love reading her books, and this one wasn't dissapointing. How ever good the stroy was, how great the characters were, the best thing in this whole book was the writing. I don't remember the last time I just enjoyed simply reading the book, the sentences, the dialogue. She does it marvelously.

2. A beautiful story - Set in the medieval times, it's about a baron seeking revenge for his sister's rape. He plans to kidnap the sister of his enemy, you know, an eye for an eye. It begins with Duncan, The Wolf, being tied to a post in the middle of winter left to freeze to death. Madelyne (the sister of his enemy) plans to escape her brother, and save the poor warrior from certain death. Not knowing he is in fact there just for her, she frees him and ends up being captured. Duncan immediately sees she is nothing like her brother, and Madelyne learns to trust him and eventually they fall in love (well duh XD).

3. A fierce warrior for a hero - almost all JG's heroes are alike - huge, musceled, fierce and brave warriors, and Duncan is no different :) He's alpha as any alpha can be, considering in what time period he's in lol. They know him as The Wolf, he is feared by all, his enemies never wish to see his face in battle for they would not come out of it alive. Considering I absolutely LOVE those fierce alpha warriors, he was just my thing, I loved him :)) Anyway, from the moment Madelyne "saved" him and warmed his feet when he couldn't stand, he knew she would belong to him.

4. A herione that has great character - I usually read novels just for the male ch., but this was an exception :) Madeline was so great! Even though I doubt that ladies behaved like that in those times, it was great to read :) She has a fierce temper, and is not affraid to stand up to Duncan, when even his soldiers would cower in fear of him. She's so funny and clueless about it, that makes her even more funny XD At one time, after she kisses Duncan, she went up in tears and apologized for taking advantage of him when he promised her he would not touch her XDXD Yeah she's just great :)

5. Total and utter enjoyment - All of these things together make a great read, if you're not opposed to the medieval period you'll really like this :) Well, I have to admit, I was totally opposed to medieval, and then I read this one, my first from this period, and what can I say - now I LOVE it <3
This was a re-read, and now I'm thinking I'm going to have to go through all JG-s <3


My favorite scenes
- Duncan is half frozen from being in the cold, Madelyne gets him inside to warm him up, she presses his feet against her stomach to warm them up

"She let out a loud gasp when his icy skin touched her own warm flesh, and then adjusted her gown and wrapped her arms around the outside, hugging him to her. Her shoulders began to tremble and the warrior felt it was as if she were drawing all the cold from his body and taking it into her own.
It was the most unselfish act he had ever witnessed."

- The first time when they sleep in the tent, she kisses him, and then later appologises for taking advantage of him looool

- When she is wounded in battle, and has the fever, she's hallucinating about Odisseus ahahaha that was the funniest part of the whole book, loved it

- The first time she goes down for dinner and witneses the "feeding" as she calls it loooool

- When his horse breaks out of the stable and everyone panicking that he will run her over, and figuring out that she "tamed" him hahahaha

- When he tells her he loves her, and she only thanks him for it ehehe

[Esther · Rating 5 out of 5]

11/23-Reread and continue to love this story.

My yearly fix of Julie Garwood never gets old. Loved every minute of this book and this beautiful love affair.

I never get tired of rereading this one. Loved the hero and heroine.

Reread!!

Another 6 star rating if possible.

I forgot how much I loved these two together. Madelyne and Duncan's love story was beautiful, sweet, full of chemistry and sexy. Such an incredible love story.

I miss the medieval romances, we need more like this one.

The writing was excellent and beautiful. What a wonderful storyline.

I will definitely be reading this one again and again.

[Colette · Rating 4 out of 5]

“She liked to pretend that one day Odysseus would magically appear and take her away with him. He’d fight for her, protect her from Louddon. And he’d love her. When Madelyne became a woman, she put the childhood dreams away. And until this moment, she’d actually forgotten her secret dream. Yet in this precious moment, while she stared at her husband, she realized that her dream had come true. Duncan was her Odysseus. He was her lover, her protector, her savior from her brother. Dear God, she was in love with the man.” To avenge his sister who was wronged by Baron Louddon, Duncan of Wexton also known as “The wolf”, did not only destroy Louddon’s fortress, he also took the Baron’s sister, Lady Madelyne as his captive. An eye for an eye. But the urge to protect the beauty was stronger than Duncan's original plan to use Madelyne as his pawn in the war her brother waged.

Honor’s Splendour is a stand-alone medieval romance written by Julie Garwood. This one is highly popular and I’m sure many of my Goodreads friends have already read this one so I’ve no need to write a synopsis all over again. This book is about Duncan, Baron Wexton and Lady Madelyne. This is my first Julie Garwood ever! I’ve never read a medieval romance so this was altogether a new experience! I am glad, and have no disappointments that I finally decided to read this one. Even before I read the book, I had a feeling that it’ll be good because of the many good reviews and friends who say that this was their favorite Garwood…So, I knew it had to be great.

Meet Lady Madelyne: She is the sister of Baron Louddon. She was constantly mistreated by her brother and dreams of escaping her home. I can’t really describe her character. All I have to say is that she was fun more often than not to read about. She was this character who you expect to be meek but it turns out she can hold her own. She was charming because of her truth telling ways, her constant clumsiness, her innocence and her urge to protect and save everyone. She could also be argumentative and contradictory but she was delightful nonetheless.

Meet Duncan Wexton: He is a baron which I think was a high rank during the medieval era. He was nicknamed “The Wolf” because of his legendary fighting skills. His soldiers are the best trained and strongest in all of England. He was a character that you would come to love alongside with the h. He was very strong in both personality and build and yet he was super gentle, caring, loving and protective towards the heroine. Just like the title, he was indeed honorable.

The story starts with Duncan fooling Louddon’s soldiers into thinking he was their captive and that they were in control. Madelyne saw this happening and without a doubt proceeded to free him knowing that she would have to suffer the consequences. She was supposed to be a pawn in Duncan’s war against Louddon but the moment she warmed his feet, she basically sealed her fate! Duncan knew that he would protect her and as they reached his fortress, he stayed true to his words. As they spent more time in each other’s company, this gentle lady seemed to charm everyone including Baron Wexton himself. Meanwhile, Baron Louddon is eager to make Duncan pay for destroying his fortress and stealing his sister who he began to have the hots for. Neither Duncan nor Madelyne wanted to return her to Louddon…what is there to do but marriage? But it doesn’t end there. Louddon would stop at nothing to have his revenge on Wexton…

I loved the heroine. As I’ve stated, she was charming. I liked her eagerness to help people who she deemed are in need, how honest she was, how clumsy and how she was willing to learn how to do things even if it seems, even with much training, she wasn’t particularly gifted in the area she wanted to be good at. I think I fell in love with her the moment she warmed Duncan’s feet. I think that is when most readers did as well. It was so unusual and yet I loved every bit of that scene. From that moment on, I, myself, wanted to protect her. I wouldn’t go as far as to say she’s one of my favorite heroines, but she was enjoyable in her own right. What can I say that hasn’t been said yet? I’ve read reviews, of course, wherein people didn’t like her very much and all I can say is that we all have our own preferences. She was a contradictory character and even I who have finished reading the book have a hard time saying what I liked / didn’t like about her. I’ll just say that for most part, she was a joy to read about.

I loved the hero as well. To be honest, I wasn’t expecting his character to be the first to confess he loved the h but he did and that surprised me. Don’t we all love a man who is not afraid to proclaim his love? None of that “I can’t love” excuses we so often see in historicals. I loved his protectiveness and the way he treated Madelyne. He was honorable and it is touching how he was always there to save Madelyne. I liked the trust that the heroine has for him. It showed their deep connection and how she knew he wouldn’t ever let her down and that says a lot about how he makes her feel and how he treats her. Even when the heroine had her bouts of insecurity, he was always there to reassure her of his love. He made Madelyne feel wanted, loved and treasured. I guess we can all agree that he was a good hero. He is the type of man that you know would always be there for you. We all need someone like him.

This was my first medieval romance. It was a new experience. I must admit, I miss my 19th century book boyfriends. This was the furthest era in historicals I have ever had the chance to read. Since this was set during the medieval era, the atmosphere of the story was definitely different than what I was used to. I think at the time I read this, it was a good change since I seem to be in want of something new.

I’ve had worries about medieval era romances; I worry that romance would not be the main focus since the heroes of this time were warriors, there are no balls / ton events which I enjoy so much in historicals and just confusion about the era since I was new to it. These are the main reasons why even as I’ve had this on my kindle for months, I was hesitant to read it. But I finally took the leap since lately I seem to get no excitement from some books I read which are all set during the 19th century.

This book did not disappoint. Julie Garwood writes well. I feel like I was really transported during the era in which this book took place. I could see everything so vividly, the castles, the horses, the warriors, the clothing and just about everything. Aside from that, she has such good humour! I loved the wit and banter between the h and H and even the h’s conversations with supporting characters. I found myself laughing at least once each chapter. Julie Garwood has a way with words…she just perfectly knows how to make her book lively and humorous.

I loved the romance between Madelyne and Duncan! This book had many bed scenes but it wasn’t a problem to me because I know that their love is not just based on lust. I could really feel their connection to each other. Like even if this book had no bed scenes at all, I still would know that the h and H’s relationship is passionate. The development of their relationship was great. It was believable. The H’s perspective wasn’t full of “God I want to fuck her!” which quickly escalates to love which is nice. I loved how he saw her and knew her better than everyone else did, including herself. And with enough time, he fell in love with her because how couldn’t he when she brought joy to his emotionless life? As for the h’s love for the hero, it is believable and relatable. I, too, would fall in love with a man who proves himself to be honorable, a man who makes me feel protected, loved and most of all treasured. The h was very relatable especially because of her childish yearnings. For someone to save and protect her….I relate to that all too well.

I enjoyed Gilard’s character and his infatuation with Madelyne! I found it so cute how when he first saw her, he was this ill-tempered man and suddenly he was her champion. I liked Edmond too, and how he eventually came to care for Madelyne. And most of all, I enjoyed Adela and Madelyne’s friendship, how Madelyne helped Adela heal. How Adela quickly become Madelyne’s confidant. I think I just love the Wexton family. They aren’t very easy people to like at first and I had moments where I was suspicious of them but then I loved them more as the story progressed. The Adela and Gerald side romance was also nice! I was invested in their relationship and was happy they eventually had their happily ever after.

My first Julie Garwood book did not disappoint. It is possible for me to read more of her work but I think only when I am in need of something that’s not the usual era I am comfortable with. I like how she writes and as I’ve mentioned a million times, her humour was good! I can definitely understand why other people would love this book. It was a gem with compelling characters and an equally compelling writing.

Some quotes:

“What Lady Madelyne wanted wasn’t the least significant to him. Aye, she belonged to him now, whether she wished it or not. Lady Madelyne had sealed her own fate. She’d warmed his feet.”

“Nay, Madelyne, you don’t belong to Carthage.” Madelyne nodded and then closed her eyes. She sagged against Duncan’s chest. Duncan used his hand to push her chin up, forcing her to look at him again. “You don’t belong to Louddon, Madelyne. From this moment on, you belong to me. Do you understand?” Madelyne nodded her head.

“You’ve just given me the most wonderful gift, Duncan. I am overwhelmed.” He waited to hear more. “You’re the only man to ever tell me you love me.” Madelyne whispered. A wrinkle crossed her brow and she added, “How could I not love you in return?”

“You called me simpleminded,” Madelyne told him, smiling over the memory. The sparkle was back in her eyes. She wasn’t angry any longer. Duncan pretended outrage over her remark just to gain her reaction. “I’ve never called you simpleminded. It was someone else and I will challenge him immediately.” Madelyne burst into laughter. “It was you, Baron. I’ve already forgiven you though. Besides, I’ve called you many unkind names.” “You have? I’ve never heard any of them,” Duncan said. “When did you call me these names?” “When your back was turned, of course.”

“If you get yourself killed, I’ll find your grave and spit on it,” she threatened. “Then I’ll take every care.” “You promise me?” “I promise you.”

[Lady Nilambari Reads HR · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is still the best one out there! Just so romantic, sigh!

5 My-Feet-Are-So-Warm-Stars!

Can I rate a book higher than five stars, ten perhaps? I am weeping with joy, Missy you have my eternal gratitude for this recommendation.

My Thoughts
- This book, this wonderful, wonderful book was a revelation in the amount of happiness, a great romance novel can bring its reader. Ms Garwood, thank you.
- This author has tapped open the entire genre of medieval romances for me to explore with all the alpha, warrior heroes, damsels in distress, early political landscapes etc. All of it makes for a splendid setting for a swoon-worthy romance.
- Now, about this story, let's start with its title. Honor's Splendour, how perfectly intriguing. Who knew being honourable would be so enchanting. And everything that followed in this plot was thoroughly riveting as well. I was alternatively smiling and frowning, well, mostly smiling.
- There was nothing I did not love about this book, and I have zero complaints, but what made it even more heartening was Madelyne. She stole my breath.
- Madelyne's character was a work of art. She had my attention the second she decided to save Duncan, consequences be damned; and I fell in love with her the minute she warmed Duncan's feet. That, in my book was the truest act of kindness, fictional or real, does not matter. She was so innocent, pure, and guileless I couldn't help but love her. I adored this compulsively truth-telling, clumsy, non-horse riding, but horse charming, people charming, utterly confusing, contrary, argumentative, rule-defying, Duncan saving, non-arrow aiming, wolf believing, Gilard saving, Adela avenging, utterly charming heroine. She was so cute that I just couldn't stand it.
- Duncan was your amazing, super alpha warrior hero avenging his sister. There was everything to love about this guy. I quite enjoyed how absolutely flabbergasted he was with Madelyne, how he struggled to keep pace with her, and how gentle and loving he was. As swoon-worthy as Duncan was, I believe his character shined because of Madelyne.
- Their romance was delectable. Their banter, his confusion, her insecurities, their trust, and their unable to sleep without each other was beautiful. I am basking in the glow of this lovely romance.
- The subplot, the villain, and the side characters were amazingly created as well. I liked Gilard's infatuation, Edmons's incredulity, Gerald - Adela secondary story. Even the revenge drama kept me hooked.
- I can sing many praises of this story, but Madelyne won it for me.

My Recommendation
If you like a good, strong heroine, a lovely romance, an alpha hero, and an excellent plot, look no further. Yes, more Julie Garwood, please.

[Somia · Rating 4 out of 5]

A re-read that had me smiling and entertained.

Set in the medieval times, this book gives us fierce Baron Duncan of Wexton who seeks revenge against the man who raped his sister, what he doesn't count on is falling in love with the women he aims to use in order to gain his revenge - Madelyne.

At times Madelyne's switch from meek to defiant and back again had me pausing ever so slightly but it didn't drive me mad.

There's a sweet and gentle tone to this one that I enjoy.

Potential Triggers: References to rape and murder.

[Dina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yay, another great book by Julie Garwood! :)

The story opens with Baron Duncan of Wexton stripped of his clothing, tied to a post, and left to freeze to death by Baron Louddon's men. But as soon as he's alone, Louddon's sister, Lady Madelyne, comes to his rescue and frees him. Ducan can't believe his luck - not that he's in any real danger and in need of her help because his "capture" was all part of a bigger plan -, but fate is just giving him what he came for. Duncan's sister, Adela, was raped by Louddon about a month ago, so he decided to kidnap Madelyn and force a confrontation with her brother, seeking revenge for what he's done. Having Madelyne unselfishly help him is beyond anything Duncan expected, and he falls hard and fast for her. Obviously, it takes some time until he realizes that.

As soon as Duncan is freed, he and his men attack Louddon's men and destroy his fortress. When the battle is over, Duncan is disappointed to find that Louddon is absent, since the coward Baron escaped to London soon after Duncan was "captured", thinking of establishing an alibi for Duncan's death. Knowing that Louddon will go after them, Duncan takes Madelyne as his "captive" to his home. And so it begins a most romantic story...

This book hooked me from the start, with one of the most beautiful opening scenes I've ever read. Oh, I've heard about the whole "feet warming" and such beforehand, as it's often mentioned as a memorable scene by many readers, but it didn't lessen the impact of it. It was exciting to actually read the whole scene and not only a snippet of it, and I was smiling and sighing like a ninny the whole time. Like Duncan, I fell in love with Madelyn there and then.

As I'm beginning to expect from Garwood's heroines, Madelyne was a bit ditzy and clumsy, but her kindness and courage won me over. Her inability to tell a lie was charming, sometimes funny and, in the end, saved the day. See, it pays to always tell the truth, especially if you tell it in a way that gets people a little confused. :)

Duncan was also what I've come to expect from a Garwood's hero: an arrogant but honorable warrior, protective, patient and completely devoted to Madelyne. He did force her to marry him, but it was for her protection - among other reasons, like his yet-unprofessed love for her and his desire do bed her ;) - and he never meant to hurt or harm her in any way.

Honor's Splendour was all about Duncan and Madelyne realizing they were made for each other and, as a bonus, making Louddon pay for his sins. I loved the way Ducan explained to himself why he felt compelled to sneak into Madelyne's bedroom to sleep with her when she was still his "captive", I smiled with his listing the reasons for marrying her, I sighed every time he sighed - just for show, of course - with one of her antics, I laughed with her attempts at learning self-defense... To sum things up, I adored Duncan and Madelyne.

The only thing that bothered me a bit in this book was, I felt it dragged a little after Duncan and Madelyne said ILY to each other. Things got too calm and quiet after that, and I couldn't wait to see how Duncan was going to "finish" Louddon for good. I trusted Duncan but I didn't trust King William, and his "special friendship" with Louddon could be a problem. In the end, everything worked out, and Duncan and Madelyne got their true HEA - after all, this is Romancelandia. :)

This was only my fourth book by Garwood and, based on what I've read so far, I can't wait to read more of her. Working my way through her backlist will keep me entertained for a long time, and I couldn't be happier.

[Azet · Rating 5 out of 5]

"For though Duncan was a mere mortal, flawed as well, he'd accomplished a daring feat. Aye, he'd captured an angel. And she belonged to him. "

After finishing "Honor`s Splendor" it troubled me that i had read historicals novels from many other famous authors ever since i was 12 year old,and still had missed out on reading anything by Julie Garwood!I mean,she is a very loved author and i have realized it over the years when i checked out many positive reviews to her beloved books.Garwood is indeed a class of her own,in the way she portrays her characters and their character developement and the way she mix adventure,romance and family-drama together.

This book being a medieval historical romance about a lady being captured by a fierce warrior,it was he who becomes the captive instead.As Duncan of Wexton was thinking when he looked at her:“Lady Madelyne had sealed her own fate. She'd warmed his feet.”

You guys have no idea how i swooned at the sweetness between Duncan and Madelyne!So many tender emotions,as i love how they fall in love with each other and eventually marry!Madelyne is a innocent but stubborn heroine who blooms in front of Duncan`s love.I adored his brothers,and i liked Madelyne`s friendship with them.She hooked everyone around her little finger,and i am certainly sure that they have a entertaining,loving and passionate happy ever after ahead of them!

[Debbie DiFiore · Rating 5 out of 5]

1/2/2022

To start this new year out with a good book, I re-read this one since it is my favorite. And I thoroughly enjoyed it. Great start to my reading challenge!!!

I love this book

Due to some bad book decisions over the last week I decided to re-read an old favorite. This is probably my most favorite book. I love the h and her innocence and strength. Duncan is an awesome hero too. I loved how he protected her at any cost. The scene where she warms his feet is priceless. One of the greatest scenes ever. I have probably read this 10 or more times. It just makes me feel good inside. Romance at its best.

[Arini · Rating 3 out of 5]

again, not a review, but an excuse...

this one caught me at a bad time. i was in a mood and overthinking things, and apparently it wasnt distracting enough. or i guess i was just more broody than usual. this had some of my fave tropes, and the beginning was so good. i feel like i couldve loved it more under different circumstances. so hopefully a re-read some time in the future will fix it. no promises though. i could still choose to remove the book altogether.

(read as an audiobook)

[⋆Isaᵕ̈ · Rating 5 out of 5]

HE HAS A DIMPLE! 😭

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

How I love these epic medieval romances. And I absolutely loved these characters. A gruff and grunting hero and a strong-willed, intelligent heroine. There was even an added bonus here, with many references to The Odyssey which I just finished reading. Fantastic. I will never tire of these stories. And Garwood does a stellar job with them.

[Gloria · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my 5th? Julie Garwood medieval romance and I’ve enjoyed them all, although they’re starting to run together in my mind. The plots are not to blame for the blurriness; each of the stories is whopping good and unique. The main characters, though, are the same two people in each book, only with different names. The heroine is always addlepated, willful, mouthy, and unpredictable, but with flashes of sly intelligence and a penchant for deciding things that may or may not be true but she always proceeds as if they are. The heroes are honorable, strong-and-silent types, quick to fall but slow to realize they’ve fallen.

It’s a winning formula obviously, as I keep coming back for more, but I’d prefer uniquely memorable characters to populate these imaginative stories. Surely that’s not too much to ask.

[Anna [Bran. San. Stan] · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars. I am so disappointed - this just didn't hit my sweet spot.

[Ingie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written September 4, 2014

4 1/2 Stars - So very delightful and tenderly heartwarming, just swoonish sweet

This was a LOVELY romance to listening too. It was my second by Julie Garwood. ~ I loved The Bride (4.5 stars). ~ Two great HR to highly recommend.

It may be 30 years old but Honors's Splendour is still amazing sweet. Ms Garwood does this with an incredible skill. ~ A lovely adorable heroine and a tough rugged hero, at least they had me with full attention, twinkling eyes and a goofy smile - all these hours. Heaven, this is pleasure in good classical romance style.

**********************************************

England 1099...

This oldish story is perhaps not especially innovative. You get the expected:

• A gentle heroine, Lady Madelyne who is suffering the cruel whims of her ruthless half-brother, Baron Louddon.

• A bitter angry warrior leader, Baron Duncan of Wexton - the Wolf.

‘Lady Madelyne had sealed her own fate. She'd warmed his feet.’

• A family conflict and the heroine Madelyne is the prize the warrior hero capture. A proud beauty, with a good heart he soon pledge to protect with his honor and life.

• A rough-hewn big old castle in need of a lady and good housewife's tender hand. ~ A younger angry sister in need, two suspicious goodlooking brothers, curiously servants and sloppy maids, a beloved horse, cute little kids, new routines, behold adoring soldiers, a traitor, an irritated mighty king etc, etc.

Yes, you might have heard and read that story earlier you too. So true, but this is nevertheless fascinating and addictive reading (listening). It is both heart and pain, funny dialogue, everyday events in the castle, witty, charming, seductive and cute tender. Just as a historical romance should be in my opinion.

The heroes are divine and the bad guys are inhuman gutless wimps.

~*~ The best, strongest, most clever knight win and get the most dear and beautiful heroine. ~*~

*********************************************

‘She wished she could understand her reaction to him. Why, her heart was pacing a wild beat again.
Madelyne dared a quick look up and found Duncan was watching her intently. He looked so handsome. She wanted him to be ugly.’

***********************************************

I'm sorry to say but this narrator, Anna Flosnik wasn't great in all ways. She did it mostly well but her voice for the hero Duncan was actually quite odd. It sounded like he was sick and almost as a h@rny slimy type, with a very hoarse voice like a heavy smoker. Not a young hard, but gorgeous, warrior and noble man year 1099. He could have been done so much better with a normal voice. Female narrator or not. ~ But I liked him anyway. Dunkan is an amazing yummy hero character.

I just tried to feel the words and the great text from Ms Garwood's novel. And I did mostly. The narrators voice for our dear heroine Madelyne was undoubtedly perfect for a young witty (..even sassy) lady then a thousand years ago.

“I am ever a gentle maiden,” she shouted. “Damn if I'm not.”

Ms Flosnik's way of reading some more steamy love-acts were also a bit goofy exaggerated hoarse and cheesy sometimes. But maybe it is when reading by yourself as well? It is after all a thirty years old blockbuster romance for the great mass of readers. We were perhaps a little more prude and shy then back in the 80s?

But all in all: I enjoyed it a lot. I just love to have a good romance in the audiobook form in my ears.
Honor's Splendour IS a lovely grand medieval romance.

***********************************************

“Madelyne, we're married now. 'Tis a usual occurrence to bed one's wife on the wedding night.”

It is great to get a genuine fairy-romance with a larger-than-life hero, a sweet adorable heroine and and grand epic HR feeling. Of course, there is humor also. - Chuckle-worthy, tantalizing hot and so heartbreaking sweet.

My conclusion: Ms Julie Garwood delivers the expected, but so much better.

I LIKE - ..of course who doesn't?


*******
This novel (to read... not the audiobook) was recommended by the 'memory master', dear Kathleen (5 stars) A year ago. ~ Thanks my friend, your book recommendations are always perfect for me when I at last pick them up.

[Rach · Rating 5 out of 5]

5++++++ STARS!!!!

I honestly cannot remember the last time I enjoyed a book so so much!



I will admit I was a person who at the mention on Historical Romances would run the other way! Yet I told Blacky I would try one as I know she loves them :)

I was so wrong to judge them! This one is so wonderful that I think it will stay with me for the rest of my life *sigh*

***Things I loved***

* Duncan known as the wolf- you have my heart my love *sigh* you are amazing and I loved your stern attitude to begin with and yet your love for Madelyne. I will wait for my Duncan to come on his horse to rescue me one day!!
* Madelyne- she was an amazingly strong character who was wise and brought great humor to the story with her willingness to speak her mind. Even to Duncan who commanded respect and submission
* the plot- I cannot fault it! It was never boring or out of context. It had just the right amount of passion and reverence for a book of this genre.

Would I recommend it to others...

YES I MOST CERTAINLY WOULD!! Even to none Historical Romance readers or people wanting to begin with this genre like myself.

I will certainly be reading more books by this author as she is amazing :)

Blacky I could kiss you for recommending this to me. You are the queen of Historical Romance rec's now so be warned I will be coming to you again! Love you woman Mwah mwah

[Hulya Kara Yuksel · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG OMG OMG I'm having a #fangirlin moment right now. Maybe later, I'll write more about the book but now OMG wohooo my mind is spinning!!! hahaha listen to me girls, you have to meet Duncan. Mark my words... You MUST meet him. Oh God help me, I think I lost my mind. See you later. :)

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honor's Splendour is classic Garwood. *sigh* My favorite is still Ransom, but this one was really good, too. If you're a fan of her medieval romances, then this one won't disappoint.

Unfortunately, I did happen to notice something while reading this that kept me from giving it five stars. I love you Ms. Garwood, so please don't hate me for saying this... Has anyone else noticed that all of these books have basically the same plot? Spunky (yet kind) heroine get kidnapped or otherwise forced into marriage by a seemingly cold (yet honorable) leader of the clan/family who is in a blood feud with said spunky heroine's family/clan/country. Heroine then proceeds to win over entire clan/family (who all initially hate her), all the while putting herself in danger (that she is usually unaware of) thus giving the hero enough heart palpitations to realize that he can't live without her. The War-hardened hero then turns into a giant ball of mush (which for some reason, all of his soldiers think is ok...maybe because they are all smitten with the heroine, as well?), and finally professes his undying devotion to the heroine. Once that happens, the story still ends up going on for about 150 pages, 'cause there's all sorts of intrigue going on that threatens to destroy the happy couple now that they've found each other.

Maybe this realization should have prompted me to lower my rating on this book, but I couldn't do it. After all, just because you've eaten a triple chocolate chunk fudge brownie once, doesn't mean you won't still love it the next time you eat it, right?

[Chenaule · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars

[Millie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Starting the new year with a meh 😔

I have no recollection of reading this book twice before. None. I didn't even remember the title. The only memorable thing about this book is that the heroine warmed his feet in the first few chapters, and that's cute, I guess.



Baron Duncan Wexton and Louddon are enemies. The book starts with Baron Wexton stripped and put in chains, outside in the snow to die. Louddon's sister, Madelyn, saved him. Not only that, she warmed his feet. Wexton then kidnaps her. Little did both of them know, he's going to fall in love with his enemies sister.

Review

Let me start this by saying this used to be on my favorites shelf. I love Garwood. I just don't love this book as I used to. Time had either developed my brain or changed my tastes, point is, I dragged my rating from 5 (how did that happen?) to a 2.5 or 3 if I'm generous. Why? Hohoho.

This forced me into a slump in December. Yes, this one is the culprit. The first few chapters were fine. It was great, really. But the magic died down pretty quickly.

I always knew Garwood's writing were a bit... cliche. I don't mind it at all. I prefer it sometimes. But this one is just to... how do we say it?? Cartoonish. Here are my problems with it:

- At one point she hits him in the face and he gives no reaction. None. I mean, I know he's written as this big brute of a man, but being punched in the face and giving no reaction other than "😐", no matter how small a woman Madelyn was, is just comical. There's other multiple instances that accentuates his strength and her "delicate figure" 🙄, which I usually gloss over but this one is just one too many.



-The description and their interaction is so weird. She was always insulting him and he was gruff and unfeeling. In the narrative he was angry, but then he saw her wear his colors and he's happy for some reason and forgot his annoyance in her previous behavior in a second. I know it could be possible to change emotions, but it's just so abrupt like the author can't decide what to write and started rambling.

-I know that Garwood is a religious person. It's ingrained in her books. This one however, feels a little .... even I had to punch the breaks. There's misogyny (which is a regular in medievals) and then theres homophobia by the heroine (which could be ignored, but the fact it serves no purpose to the story was weird, Garwood was truly biased), multiple self-righteous attitudes, and then the justifying of an act that I consider old-school. Why do I say this? Because Madelyn, our heroine, punched a rape victim in the mouth to "fix" her tantrum and it somehow worked



Only in fiction will this fix a behavior, truly. That's another matter which we will get into next.

- So Adela, the rape victim is violated by Madelyn's brother and his friends. Adela threw a tantrum and treated Madelyn horribly despite Madelyn doing nothing wrong. Granted, Adela was wrong for blaming her and trying to slap her, but what Madelyn did was not good either. Why would the rape victim trust you!!! Out of all people?? She has a sister of her own. A family. You're telling me she won't trust anyone but the sister of her rapist? THIS IS HIGH FANTASY. I don't understand it. It's literally plot convenience. Madelyn did nothing to deserve Adela's trust. Right after MAdelyn slapped her as well. I don't know it all just seemed silly to me.

- Quirky not like other girls trope. SMH. Madelyn is quirky all right. I enjoyed her just fine, it's silly. but it comes to a point. It usually isnt a problem for me. All of Garwood's heroine is "quirky and weird". The problem was she kept telling everyone how better she was, how gentle and kind she was than everyone, and the second someone mentions gods name shes like u shouldn't use gods name in vain. Girl???? You say it too. Shes so self righteous.

She kept saying shes a gentle maiden when shes obviously not, other than being violent (as violent as the wextons) she has a dirty mouth and speaks blasphemy. You mean to tell me this girl is raised by tame old priests?? She threw tantrums and insults EVERYONE, yet everyone says shes "a gentle lady" I'm like



Where is this gentle lady everyone was talking about?? She keeps saying it too. She says "I'm a gentle maiden" give me a break!!



- Here's another thing that's comical. The conflict. This rivalry between the hero and heroine's brother. Everything is cartoonish I swear, from Madelyn overhearing the bad guys screaming and conveniently revelaed a plot twist in that moment, or the way the bad guys expects to just win with no effort? It's a bit comical. Like why in hells name would the bad guys let her go and stand in front of the king when she obviously would tell the truth. I don't get it. What outcome did they even want? I think they should read Game of Thrones to learn how to scheme properly.

- The whole lecture and quirk about odyesseus stories took too much time. It did nothing for the plot other than make her character unique, yet it took suuuch a long time. I didn't care the slightest about odysseus and they kept bringing him up. One instance (when duncan referred to himself as her odysseus and will clean the home from evil or wtv) it actually made me cringe.



-Duncan is not much memorable and sometimes an ass. The list goes long, especially when they supposedly hate each other. Their bickering gets tiring after a while. I thought him sleeping without having sex with her was so weird. Like what was the point? People assumed she lost her virginity just because you wanna cuddle? You let your own servants assume you were having sex this whole time and you did nothing to correct them? Such a good guy. 🙄


Conclusion

I don't hate it. I don't. In fact, I enjoyed the first chapter and the last few chapters, no matter how comical it got. But the middle part I struggled a lot and it's taking me months to finish. I truly don't understand how I could have given this a 5 stars years ago. My old review says "He warmed his feet 😍"



Yeah, let's forget that review. This is the real one.

I still like Garwood. Some of her books is still in my favorites shelf, but this one just doesn't do it for me anymore. The heroine is a tad bit too childish and the hero does nothing for me. It was just OK. This would probably be my last re-read of this.

[Vintage · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though we have some different taste in some books, I love Val ⚓️ Shameless Handmaiden' reviews because she is so passionate about the books she loves. Her review on this is pretty short, but I've read enough Garwood to believe Val's review.