The Knight's Convenient Alliance

Notorious Knights #4

by Melissa Oliver

The only man who’s tempted her…

Now poses as her husband!

When an injured knight arrives on Brida O’Conaill’s doorstep, the village assumes he’s her long-lost husband. But her only previous connection to Sir Thomas Lovent was an intense shared moment at a tournament years ago. Brida maintains the pretense while she nurses him, yet once he’s back to full, virile health, she cannot reveal Thomas is not her husband—or that she’s unmarried!—when everyone is expecting them to act like husband and wife…

Genres: Romance, Harlequin, Enemies To Lovers, Medieval

265 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 25, 2021

About the author

Melissa Oliver is from south-west London where she writes historical romance novels. She lives with her lovely husband and daughters, who share her passion for decrepit, old castles, grand palaces and all things historical.
Melissa is the WINNER of The Romantic Novelist Association’s Joan Hessayon Award for new writers 2020 for her debut, The Rebel Heiress and the Knight.
When she's not writing she loves to travel for inspiration, paint, and visit museums & art galleries.
​

Reviews

[Lu · Rating 4 out of 5]

An invented husband turned real.

The Knight’s Convenient Alliance by Melissa Oliver is a medieval historical romance full of adventure and banter.

Brida O’Conaill promised her mother she would remain unwed for the rest of her days, and to keep such promise, she invented an absent husband to keep the man in the village at bay.

When Sir Thomas Lovett, a former acquaintance, arrived at her doorstep hurt, Brida had no alternative but to bring him into her cottage and claim him as her husband.

Brida and Thomas had skeletons in their closets, and their strong personalities clashed at every turn while their attraction to each other became stronger.

This medieval romance has tons of espionage, adventure, a bit of spice, and a lot of banter and chemistry between the couple.

Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

*For more reviews, book art, and book-related articles, please visit https://lureviewsbooks.com *

[Veronica (Honey Roselea Reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quite enjoyed this and liked how cute it was. Definitely easy to go through and had fun reading

[Elodie’s Reading Corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

⚔️ The Knight's Convenient Alliance ⚔️
Notorious Knights Book 4
✒️ Melissa Oliver
https://www.facebook.com/melissaolive...
Release Date 11/25/2021-12/07/2021
Publisher Mills&Boon Historical / Harlequin Historical
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B096T9ZQ9K/...
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B096XZHYP7/...

𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯

The only man who’s tempted her… Now poses as her husband!

When an injured knight arrives on Brida O’Conaill’s doorstep, the village assumes he’s her long-lost husband. But her only previous connection to Sir Thomas Lovent was an intense shared moment at a tournament years ago. Brida maintains the pretense while she nurses him, yet once he’s back to full, virile health, she cannot reveal Thomas is not her husband—or that she’s unmarried!—when everyone is expecting them to act like husband and wife…

𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄

Can she let go of the oath she made under pressure and fear …

I have followed this series since the very first book, each new story linked in some way to the other but they all are standalone tales.
We already met Brida and Thomas in the last book. They were the starring couple’s friends.
Now they rekindle their relationship under the most dangerous omen as Tom is a wanted man.
Brida has spent the last years in a jail of her own making, determined to avoid any entanglement as she believes to be a much unsuitable potential bride, why she poses as a married woman, thus protecting herself from any possible suitor.
She even rejected Thomas some years ago, afraid of the feelings he awakened.
Tom is much more than his charming self, he is a man of lights and shadows, a flirt for everyone to believe but a man of duty when he is least expected. He tried to leave behind his attraction for Brida, but he can’t forget the maiden with the sharp tongue.

Their journey is one to remember, thwarting assassins, traitors, exploring their sentiments, looking at the past and choosing between fears and a future to live for.
4 stars

𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scene.

I have been granted an advance copy by Rachel’s Random Ressources, here is my true and unbiased opinion.

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CWnw1Olo...

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[Romanticamente Fantasy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vanilla_91 - per RFS
.
Ciao Fenici,

ho di nuovo il piacere di essere qui a parlarvi di un romanzo di Melissa Oliver, nello specifico Il cavaliere ritrovato, quarto della serie Notorious knights.

La storia ruota attorno alle vicende di Tom e Brida, due personaggi che hanno in comune un passato doloroso e traumi che ancora influenzano il loro presente. Lei, in particolar modo, a causa di una profezia è convinta di dover rinunciare per sempre all’idea dell’amore e del matrimonio. Dopo un momento di passione condiviso anni prima, Brida aveva allontanato Tom, ritenendolo un cavaliere dedito solo al divertimento, ma quando, a causa di una grave ferita, la gentildonna sarà costretta a prendersi cura dell’uomo, scoprirà una verità ben diversa. Tom è molto più di ciò che mostra: è una spia della corona, invischiato in una pericolosa missione. Brida finirà, suo malgrado, per restarne coinvolta e sarà costretta a intraprendere un lungo viaggio in compagnia del cavaliere.

Tra complotti da svelare ed enigmi da risolvere, i nostri protagonisti impareranno a conoscersi davvero.

Questo romanzo riconferma l’opinione positiva che già avevo. Melissa Oliver riesce a far brillare i suoi racconti per diversi aspetti: la profondità dei personaggi che non sono scontati, la narrazione sempre scorrevole e mai noiosa e le storie d’amore turbolente e appassionanti.

Il legame che instaurano i due protagonisti è uno slow-burn, in assoluto il mio preferito. Il rapporto di coppia cresce gradualmente, di pari passo al desiderio, e l’attesa del momento in cui finalmente i protagonisti cederanno ai propri sentimenti ha creato una smania che mi ha portato a divorare le pagine per l’ingordigia di volerne sapere sempre più e con la sensazione di non averne mai abbastanza. Sicuramente il finale è prevedibile, ma l’autrice è abile a mantenere sempre viva la tensione narrativa che ti porta costantemente a chiederti come o quando accadrà.

Il lato erotico è un po’ penalizzato dato che in tutta la storia i nostri coraggiosi personaggi si lasceranno sopraffare dalla passione un’unica volta, ma questa semi-castità non toglie assolutamente gusto alla lettura. La storia è ricca di momenti davvero dolci e romantici, di parole non dette ma espresse con gesti che mi hanno comunque portata a sentire le farfalle nello stomaco per l’intensità dell’attimo narrativo.

Senza esitazione, a mio parere, anche in questo caso Melissa Oliver merita le cinque stelline per aver dato vita a una storia delicata, zuccherina e davvero molto piacevole.

[Julie - One Book More · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fourth book in the Notorious Knights series, The Knight’s Convenient Alliance follows Brida O’Conaill and Thomas Lovent, who are reunited several years after an intense and passionate encounter. Now wounded, Thomas shows up at Brida’s home, and the villagers assume he is Brida’s long-lost husband. Thomas goes along with the ruse, but he also brings danger with him, and his connection to Brida puts her at risk as well. As their feelings grow, so does the danger, and Brida and Thomas must journey together and figure out who threatens them and how it all relates to the bigger picture and the conflict in their kingdom.

I loved Thomas and Brida’s story. They have a fabulous fake marriage, opposites-attract romance filled with chemistry, angst, and passion! Though they are very different, they connect on a deep level, and their attraction to each other is undeniable. Both fight their feelings for different reasons, but as they grow closer, it proves impossible. I also like that, though they are very different, they have a lot in common. These commonalities, including tragedies in their childhood and mutual friends, bind them in a way they didn’t expect and help each other grow and heal. Brida and Thomas have as many touching and heart-warming moments as they do passionate ones, and you can tell they really care for one another.

The story also has a ton of suspense and intrigue, as Thomas flees a murder, which he is accused of and unwittingly involves Brida in. As a spy, Thomas’s life is often in danger, and as he journeys with Brida, many dangers threaten them. So many obstacles stand in their way, and their journey is rife with risks and deadly consequences, which makes for a suspenseful and entertaining read.

Though it is the fourth book in the Notorious Knights series, it can definitely be read as a standalone. However, if you read the other books in the series, you’ll be thrilled to know that some of the characters from the previous books have roles in this book too. I loved finding out how the other couples were faring and how their lives have changed. They all have such romantic love stories, which complement the romance developing between Brida and Thomas. The couples also serve as a strong reminder that love does defy all obstacles and that, though it seems impossible, there is a chance for Brida and Thomas to have their happily ever after.

This is a wonderful romance and an excellent addition to the Notorious Knights series, and I’m so thankful to Rachel’s Random Resources and Melissa Oliver for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review. I think readers who enjoy historical romance with suspense, great characters, and a swoon-worthy romance will love this book!

[Jena Henry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read, reviewed, and loved the first three books in the linked series “Notorious Knights” by award-winning author Melissa Oliver. In my review of Book 3 I proclaimed that Book 3 was the best book in the series. Well, I was wrong. Book 4, “The Knights Convenient Alliance” is now my absolute favorite. Upon further consideration, perhaps it ties with Book 1.

I will stop trying to figure out which book I love best and get on with my review. The story is set in the High Middle Ages, and mostly takes place in 1224. (A wonderful time if you are a handsome and brave knight, or a beautiful and winsome lady.) The featured knight in this book is Sir Thomas Lovent, who serves the King in a covert way. Escaping from men who are seeking to murder him, he hides in the pretty cottage of Brida O’Connaill near Kinnerton Castle.
(They met briefly before at a wedding at the castle, when an intense connection and bond between them failed to ignite.)

Several parts of the story absolutely delighted me. First, because of a horrible past and curse on her family, Brida has vowed never to wed. However, she pretends to the villagers that she is married but her “husband” is away. Isn’t that great? Then the wounded Sir Tom shows up, and the village is thrilled that her husband is home. Awkward! Brida becomes involved in Sir Tom’s predicament and joins him in his dangerous mission to reach Wales. Traveling together, they hook up with a jovial minstrel group, which is another favorite part of the book. But the best part is when Brida and Tom hide in a hut in Wales and spend a shocking night together!!

Brida is attracted to Sir Tom’s jovial manner, and also his heart and kindness. (And his muscled knightly body.) Sir Tim loves her beauty and brains, and her passion. (And her luscious maidenly body.) But can they overcome the nightmares that haunt them from the past?

If you love to read of the gallantry of yore, filled with scenes of passion that are SO INCREDIBLE, then this is the book and series for you! Let me know which book you like the best. Many thanks to the author and publisher for an advance digital review copy. This is my honest review.

[Tracy Emro · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up.

Brida O’Conaill and Sir Thomas Lovent have a history, three years ago they shared a passionate kiss, and then Brida, who instigated the kiss, delivered a cutting setdown to Thomas and stormed off. She later felt bad, she lashed out at him in frustration – she wants him, but a curse on her family means she can never marry, so she took her disappointment out on him. She meant to apologize, but Thomas left the following morning without a word and she hasn’t seen him since. That is until he shows up half-dead on her doorstep and her neighbors assume he is her long-absent husband!

Thomas has been working as an agent on behalf of the crown and Hubert de Burgh, the Chief Justiciar of England, which thankfully meant that much of his time is spent in London – far from the tempting Brida. But when a mission goes wrong and Thomas is accused of murder – he will have to return to the Welsh border to clear his name and stop a plot against his liege. But his escape was not easy and he was wounded. He went first to his friend Ralph de Kinnerton, but when he learned Ralph was away, he ended up on Brida’s doorstep. When he awakes, he learns that Brida has made up a husband and all the villagers think he is that man. He plays along, but plans to leave as soon as he is well, but when the men who attacked him come calling, he flees with Brida in tow.

Can these two figure out who is behind the sinister plot and thwart it? And more importantly, can they both let go of past hurts and doubts to find love beyond compare? Or will their fears doom them to a solitary, lonely life?

This was a good story, a bit slow-moving, but ultimately, the ending was worth the time invested. The book has strong leads, warm love scenes, a bit of intrigue, a little action, cameos from previous characters, and finally a very sweet HEA. This is the fourth book in the series, but it can easily be read as a standalone title.

*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*

[Jo Reads Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absorbing and involving
5 stars

This is my first book by Melissa Oliver but incidentally the fourth in her Notorious Knights series. Fear not, however, as each book stands alone with a separate couple complete with HEA for every book. Characters from previous books do appear in this one - especially Gwen and Ralph from The Return of Her Lost Knight - and they definitely tease you to go back and read their stories after you’ve finished this one.

The first thing I noticed about this book was that the language and writing style immediately transported me to medieval Britain where this is set - 1221 to be precise. I have absolutely no idea how, but so subtly the language and style gave me a medieval vibe which stayed with me throughout the book. It was clear that Ms Oliver knows and loves the details of the medieval period and wants to share them with her readers.

I love a fake relationship trope but actually this book is so much more. There’s a mystery element due to Sir Thomas’s work for the Crown as well as something of a road trip romance element as our pair go on a journey together - which then gives us some forced proximity. So many things to force our couple together and make me giddy at the same time.

Brida was definitely an interesting character for me and I have to say that I liked her a lot. As an independent woman in a time when it probably wasn’t the norm, Brida had to be strong and feisty. She also has a sharp tongue - especially, it turns out, when it comes to Sir Thomas. While she gives the outward appearance of infallibility, she’s actually quite vulnerable based on her past and her inability to reign in her attraction to Tom. She was complex and while it confused me at times - it was also very real.

Sir Thomas was a great hero - something of a Scarlet Pimpernel with his laughing, teasing facade which hides a more complex man on a furtive mission. I loved his teasing nature and the way he couldn’t help but try and push Brida’s buttons - it was surprisingly sweet. Like a little boy pulling at the pigtails of the girl he likes! You could definitely see the two different sides of the man and, like Brida, it revealed a layered and likeable character.

While our book starts with a blistering kiss between our pair, after that it’s something of a slow burn. But that works well as the couple need time to get to know each other and then like each other before taking things further. When things did get steamy, I got those lovely butterflies in the tummy which signal some great chemistry. The sex scenes are there but not overly explicit and perfectly fit the tone of the book.

The book had some moments that startled a laugh from me and, like I said, fantastic chemistry as well as a writing style that really envelops you into the author’s medieval world. I would have loved an epilogue to see Tom and Brida at some point after their HEA, but since there wasn’t, here’s hoping that this series continues and I can meet them again sometime in the future. I really enjoyed this story and felt absorbed into this world and the lives of Brida and Tom. I’ll look out for more stories by Melissa Oliver in the future as this one was definitely a winner. 5 stars.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Award-winning author Melissa Oliver returns with a sweeping Medieval tale of secrets, seduction and scandal: The Knight’s Convenient Alliance.

Brida O’Conaill has gone to great lengths to keep the truth about herself hidden. She daren’t risk anyone finding out her secret as the consequences simply do not bear thinking about. As an unmarried woman, Brida’s single status could expose her to untold dangers and prejudices. Letting the people in her community assume that she has a husband was a necessary lie that allowed her to live an unencumbered life. Brida never believed that there could be anyone would could challenge the untruths she told – until an injured knight called Sir Thomas Lovent crashes through her doorstep…

Brida and Thomas had met once before and shared a brief yet intense moment together she has never quite managed to put behind her. Brida cannot believe that Thomas has come back into her life in this manner and with the people in the village believing that he’s her long-lost husband, she finds herself with no other choice but to go along with this very convenient charade – even if the more time she spends in Thomas’ company, the more she finds herself falling head over heels in love with him…

As Brida nurses him back to full health, Thomas continues to get stronger, but how can she possibly explain to him that every single person in her village thinks that he is her husband? Brida doesn’t know how Thomas will react when he finds out the truth about her lies, however, with their feelings for one another intensifying with each passing day, it soon transpires that their practical arrangement could give way to a passion that simply cannot be denied.

Will Thomas and Brida become husband and wife for real? Or will secrets and deceptions end up putting paid to any hope they had of a future together?

Melissa Oliver’s The Knight’s Convenient Alliance is a passionate, dramatic and captivating historical romance that takes readers away into a world of high stakes, forbidden desire and intense emotion. Melissa Oliver’s world-building is absolutely superb and she effortlessly transports her readers back in time and makes them fall in love with her characters.

Thomas and Brida are beautifully layered and wonderfully nuanced protagonists it’s a joy to spend time with. Brida’s strength, dignity and resourcefulness is admirable and Thomas is a charismatic and captivating hero readers will fall in love with.

An engaging and enthralling historical romance, Melissa Oliver’s The Knight’s Convenient Alliance is an enjoyable Medieval tale from this fast-rising star.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Cathie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Knight's Convenient Alliance is an engaging romance.

I hadn't read the previous book in the series, where Brida and Tom make an early appearance, but that was no disadvantage. This novel can easily be read as standalone. Any details of their link to the last story were seamlessly woven into the plot.

We begin in the summer of 1221, when Brida and Tom end up sharing a passionate kiss when they both escaped their friends' wedding festivities for some quiet air.

But Brida fears love is not for her, because of a family curse, so she sends Tom away with harsh words.

Three years later, she lives a quiet life in a cottage near Kinnerton Castle, her friends’ home. The villagers believe her husband is away, a notion she never dispelled, as it suited her well. She retained her independence whilst not having to face uncomfortable questions – being a woman living on her own.

Meanwhile, Tom is in London, spying on the king's behalf. But when he runs into a clever trap, where he ends up accused of murder, he flees, with the murderers on his heel. With Ralph de Kinnerton away, an injured Tom seeks sanctuary in the village, where he is deemed to be Brida's missing husband.

In close proximity, their subdued passion rises to the surface, but as soon as he is recovered, his attackers arrive, and Tom has to flee, and to take Brida with him. They flee into Wales.

With Brida's family curse always on her mind, poor Tom often doesn't know what to make of her. His easygoing charm leads to much banter, humorous and deeper, between the two but at the end of the day, he has to reveal his real, more serious character to her.

Tom is a clever character, using his lighthearted charm as a front whilst spying for the king. But he also gets to show his real self, which is a revelation to Brida, and the reader. I really liked him. He was courageous, dangerous, and cheeky at times. A man of his time.

Brida, on the other hand, carries emotional baggage with her in form of a curse. I thought she made things far more difficult for herself than needed, and her abrasive (defensive) nature grated at times. But she also discovered her wicked sense of humour, as the journey with Tom is full of surprises.

The Knight's Convenient Alliance is a nicely-flowing romance between two strong characters. The historical setting his well researched, as the detailed descriptions in the narrative show. The dangers of life in the Middle Ages – for women and men – come across very well.

I enjoyed this intriguing plot. Well worth reading!

Note: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. All views my own.

[lifelonghistorylover · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Knight’s Convenient Alliance is the fourth book in Melissa Oliver’s Notorious Knights series and having not read the previous books in the series, I can assure you that this can be read as a standalone. This story is set in the thirteenth century and follows Brida O’Conaill and Sir Thomas Lovent.

Brida believes she cannot ever marry, due to a family curse. She tries to resist the charms of Sir Thomas, but at a friend’s wedding, she kisses him. Feeling embarrassed at her behaviour, she pushes him away and delivers a cutting remark. The next morning Thomas leaves, and she believes she will never see him again. The story is picked back up again three years later, when Thomas is now in London, working on a mission for the crown. When it goes wrong and he is left injured and wrongly accused of a crime, Thomas must return to a safer place to rest, hide and plan how he is going to clear his name and foil a plot against the king.

When Brida finds Sir Thomas on her doorstep she is shocked! After previously telling her neighbours she was married, they all assume that this is her long-lost husband, returning home. Thomas goes along with Brida’s lie, but eventually the two of them must flee as Thomas knows his attackers are on his tail. Brida, his ‘wife’ will have to leave with him. Can they foil the plot and find out who is behind it in time? And will they let go of their troubled pasts and give into their sizzling chemistry, and find a way to be together?

I immediately liked Brida, she is a strong, independent, and witty woman. In the first few pages I didn’t warm to Thomas, I thought he was rather full of himself! However, as the book goes on, you realise this is a bit of an act he puts on. I then began to like his character and I was routing for Brida and Thomas to get together. Their banter was great, and I really enjoyed the storyline alongside their romance.

This Historical Romance makes for an exciting and heart-warming page turner!

[Adele · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Knight’s Convenient Alliance is Book 4 in the Notorious Knights series and it is also Melissa Oliver’s fourth published book in just 17 months. Melissa Oliver has burst onto the Medieval Romance scene and has left her readers wanting more …

This is the story of Brida O’Connaill and Thomas Lovent and their rather unconventional tale of love overcoming a history that left a guilty feeling within oneself, of a dramatic heroic mystery and a humorous game of ‘will they, won’t they.’

We briefly met Brida and Thomas in book 3 however, you do not need to have read any of the previous books to enjoy any of the stories in the series as they are easily read as a standalone. But characters from previous stories do crop up in later instalments making it lovely to see progression in their lives and it is also a wonderful series.

Brida and Thomas have a brief history but 3 years have passed and they have seen ‘hide nor hair’ of each other until Thomas is found collapsed in her home nursing a wound. For the last 3 years Brida has kept up a pretence that she’s married and her husband works away so when Thomas turns up the villagers are jubilant for his return leaving Brida with some explaining to do for a very smug knight who finds the whole situation hilarious and he thoroughly laps up all the attention.

Thomas Lovent has a secret double life and he’s brought danger inadvertently to Brida’s door. A dramatic escape ensues with a limited timescale to reach a pivotal event that is imperative to run smoothly for the peace of the kingdom. Danger is afoot and no-one is to be trusted. However, what fears both Brida and Thomas is their own past which has indented a guilt within each other that has shaped the way they live their lives now.

Melissa Oliver has written an entertaining medieval romance with danger around every corner which includes the temptation of each others hearts. Gorgeous!

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

For the last three years, Brida O'Connaill has been pretending to be married. When Sir Thomas Lovent arrives on her doorstep, injured and delirious, her neighbours naturally assume he's her husband, finally home. Unfortunately, Tom's attackers are on his tail and it's up to him and Brida to race to Wales to foil a plot against their king.
Brida and Tom's witty banter sparkles as it flies off the page, striking sparks between them, and their attraction is undeniable. It's no surprise that people believe Brida's ruse and helped me believe in their relationship going from irritating acquaintances to friends to lovers. They both carry heavy pasts, though I didn't really get what was up with Brida and the prophecy. Tom is a little easier to understand, even if he did get rather overprotective at times. It was nice to see them bond over shared aspects of their pain, though I feel some of this could've been explored more

The book is stuffed with plot in order to get Tom to Brida and to get them moving and then together. There's also a number of supporting characters from previous books and admit a degree of ignorance about this period of British history so I don't know which, if any, are historical figures. In any case, it's easy to sit back and let the action carry you along, as well as enjoy cameos from previous leads.

Overall, it's an entertaining romance much in the vein of the others in the series. Best enjoyed with a cup of tea where you won't be disturbed.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own

[Gmr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brida O'Connaill and Sir Thomas Lovent...
...two hearts thrown together by circumstance...
...but two souls that were meant to be..
...whether they can admit it or not!


The thing with these particular stories from author Melissa Oliver is that while there is a bigger picture going on all around them...you know, plots against peace, the king, and what have you...it doesn't take away from the romance at its heart. I loved Brida and Thomas' spark. Their witty banter and constant need to annoy each other to no end was delightful! It added a dose of fun, of humor, of something much needed to brighten the darker things that surrounded and haunted them both. The chance Brida took on living a lie to gain a modicum of freedom was understandable. The "unfortunate" assumption that the knight in poor health was the seed of that long held lie, story building. The dash for their lives, the near misses at meeting their maker earlier than planned, and the potential for a bittersweet ending to arrive unwanted, all went into making those tethers in your heart pull tight again and again. But by book's end, the fruit of their labors, however unintentional they may have been, see the light of day...and readers get something they could only truly hope for...with a side of entertainment to boot!

All in all, another great pair in the making from an author who spins the story round her characters with care, knowing that even though danger was at every turn, love, light, and laughter should rule the day...and the heart!


**ecopy received for review...but have purchased one for myself as well; opinions are my own

[Jéssica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melissa Oliver is turning into one of my favorite authors in this genre, and I'm always excited about her new books.

In the one we continue the Notorious Knights series with Brida O’Conaill and Sir Thomas Lovent. We have met our lovely staring characters in the previous book and I have to say that I was curious about them and their story.

The plot on this novel, the marriage pretense, it was very interesting and fun to read about. The way the characters acted and the connection they had in each scene. It was unconventional and yet emotional and intriguing. I wonder how thing would go, would they me discover, how would they react.

Overall, I won't reveal spoilers about the ending or even the development of the story, but it was amazing. I loved it! It was different, with all it's secrets, background story and drama, and just what I needed. I'm quite a historical romances addict and this book hit the spot for me.

[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, Melissa Oliver for the eCopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brida and Tom have chemistry from the very first page of this book… Admittedly, these two were in book three of this series, so they do have some history together. But, don’t worry–if you haven’t read the previous book, you won’t be missing anything important.

These two seem to suffer from poor communication and past issues that affect their chances of happiness. But, when Tom shows up injured and is nursed in Brida’s home–after years without seeing each other–the town quickly just assumes he is the husband that Brida has spoken of for years… The husband that doesn’t actually exist.

Brida and Tom must embark on a journey to keep them both safe… a journey that just brings them closer together.

These two were such a sweet pairing. I just love when both the hero and heroine are kind, caring characters that absolutely deserve each other.

Melissa Oliver is a brilliant writer of historical romance; giving the readers a wonderful story full of romance, intrigue, and happily-ever-after.

[Emma Barnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the forth book in Melissa's Notorious Knights series that this reader has been loving. Now the series can be read as stand alone books or as a series. This instalment of the series concentrates on Brida and Sir Thomas. Their story is told over the course of 21 Chapters (+Prologue).
Now the prologue really sets this book up well. Right from the very start it grabs the readers attention and makes them want to continue reading this book. Not only that but the prologue also leaves the reader with questions that get answered as you read the book.
When it comes to Brida readers are given a bit of a mystery about this character. Something that pops up throughout the book, that does get revealed eventually. However this mystery aspect will intrigue readers and keep them attached to this book until they discover what it is.
Throughout the book Brida and Sir Thomas continue to take part in a kind of verbal sparring. This sparring is witty and engaging to the readers. They will enjoy witnessing this sparring and wondering what it conceals.
Overall this is a brilliant addition to this series. You hear of the other characters throughout this book which will reignite readers love for the series.

[Katie · Rating 1 out of 5]

Poorly edited books drive me nuts. When you misspell, leave out, or use ridiculously contrived words, I want to scream! It detracts from the story, which, unfortunately wasn’t that great to begin with. The dialogue is fake, the conflict bizarre, and the romance severely lacking for a “romance” novel. Lots of “consuming” (this word used at least three times) kisses, then a major let-down of a love-making scene, followed by more kisses. I regret wasting my time on this book. I will not be reading any others in the series.

[Tiziana Langone · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretending to be married, of course nothing more will happen…
 
Brida O’Conaill and Sir Thomas Lovent had a heated moment on a tournament years ago. But she hasn’t seen or heard from him since then. Not that she was left heart – broken, as she is determined to stay unmarried for the rest of her life.
The village she is living is, believes that she actually is married but that her husband is on a pilgrimage. So when Sir Thomas arrives at Brida’s doorstep, injured, everyone assumes they are husband and wife. And Thomas and Brida cannot reveal the truth, especially now that apparently someone is scheming against the King and Thomas finds himself being a suspect of murder…
Forced to keep up the pretence, will they be able to fool everyone? Or are they only fooling themselves?
 
The next part of the series, and I loved it!
We already knew Brida and Sit Thomas as they made an appearance before, but I was very happy when these two got their own story to share!
 
The prologue already was a nice appetizer, making us reader want to see more about the attraction between Brida and Thomas.
So when we jump forward in time, I was a bit surprised as nothing has happened in between.

When Thomas appears wounded at Brida’s doorstep, it’s obviously the real start of their adventure together.
I found it hilarious how they kept up the pretence of being married, and how they manage to appear a lovely couple when surrounded by people, but when alone Brida could strangle Thomas.
Their bantering, and pushing each other’s buttons was so funny, it had me giggling (yes, at 35 years I still giggle!) all the time!
 
Initially I couldn’t understand why Brida was adamant of never getting married, especially when her feelings for Thomas keep developing. But what happened to her when she was younger, and the influence of her mother, made sense to me. Even if Brida would think rational about it, it’s not easy when you are so sure about your future to think about it with a clear mind.
But I saw where she was coming from, and she just want to avoid getting hurt or hurting her loved ones.
 
And Thomas… he is one of the most easy – going men I have encountered in books, he is flirtatious, funny and without a worry. But that is all appearances, because his tale isn’t a very happy one neither.
The way he looks after his sister after his family’s tragedy is wonderful. And that tragedy has scarred him. But he is also courageous, not only because he is a Knight, but because realizing his feelings for Brida, he is ready to risk his heart…
 
I loved seeing how Brida and Thomas joined their forces and grew closer to each other, despite all that constant bickering and fighting (because we know their real feelings!).
This next part was something I truly enjoyed reading, not only because of the adventure our characters make, but also because they also learn that without the other one, there is no laughter (you’ll know what I mean after reading this book!)

[Harlequin Books]

Categories
Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Medieval Romance
Miniseries
Notorious Knights (Book #4)

[Louise Broadfield · Rating 4 out of 5]

better then the last one. it was fun and enjoyable

[Lottie Green · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed, hard to put down, but found ending a little cringy.

[Frankie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly, can we take a moment to fully appreciate how luscious this cover is? I am in absolute love with it, I think it captures Brida and Thomas perfectly, there is a tantalizing longing in their gazes, especially in Brida’s with her averted gaze. I love it and if I hadn’t read any of Melissa Oliver’s books before I would read this just on the cover alone.

The Knight’s Convenient Alliance is easily my favourite of the series so far, It has everything I love in historical romance; fantastically emotional and complex characters, drama, adventure, wit, banter, laughs and sighs, it’s a stonking great read!! Melissa Olivia’s writing just gets better and better – seriously she never puts a foot wrong, I have been a fan of her books from day one, she is a marvel. I am in complete love with her fast-paced, flirtatious, feel-good and utterly romantic writing. I love how easy to read these stores are, the words flow and the story plays out before your eyes, it’s just wonderful, every moment of this book makes me smile.

I was absolutely gripped by the opening, wow! That was dramatic and exciting, and I knew from those first few pages that this story would keep me on my toes, especially tempting Thomas, who isn’t just a gloriously sexy, romantic flirt, but he is the ultimate action man!!

The Knight’s Convenient Alliance is a drama-filled romantic whirlwind, I loved the whispers of curses and prophesies that swirl around Brida’s history – I am fascinated by how old myths and legends, folklore and so-called hexes and curses have such drastic effects on a person and their family. How family superstition makes a person act, I think we all live like that in some way, don’t we? We all grow up with old stories from the family history which may or may not shape the people we become and the choices we make in life, and this is the case with Brida. I refuse to spoil the story by delving into the details, just go and read it for yourself, you won’t be disappointed!

Thomas and Brida have the best chemistry I have read in a long time, the banter and sparring is fun, feisty, sexy, incredibly funny they have such a brilliant report with each other, I have a massive love for the witty and fun banter between character. I have always thought it brings a story to life and these two are fabulous. The air crackles with lust and genuine attraction, despite Brida trying her damndest to keep him at arm’s length, but him being a rascally rogue he pushes and pushes, I love how he constantly jumps at the chance to tease her and make her blush with his outrageous comments. But’s all good fun, she knows he would never purposely go out of his way to hurt or humiliate her, he’s just a consummate flirt with a very wicked sense of humour.

Oh, how much do I adore this man?? I don’t have adequate words to fully profess my love for this rugged, heroic, teasing, cheeky, charismatic rogue. You wouldn’t believe how happy I am that Thomas and Brida got a story, as we met them in the previous book I did wonder if they would have a story of their own and as always Melissa Oliver never disappoints.

I’ve just realised that this entire review is all about Thomas …. hmm, you can see where my loyalties lie, can’t you? 😉

This is the fourth book in the Notorious Knight’s series, you can very easily read them as stand-alone but why would you? These books are so wonderful,I wholeheartedly recommend that you read them all at once, you seriously want to meet the other three Knight’s too. 😍

The Knight’s Convenient Alliance is a great escape from the real world, it has so much entwined with the blossoming and tantalizing romance, their’s is an unexpected romance and years before they had quarrelled and parted on bad terms and yet where does Thomas go when in need?! There is so much to love here, from humour to drama, to adventure and lots of flirty, cheeky romance, you honestly can’t go wrong with this book!