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The Knights of Roselyn
Not all legends are myths…
All Roselyn Garcia wanted was to teach alongside her father at the University of Berkeley in the History Department, but once she meets her father’s new handsome assistant, Daniel Smith, Roselyn’s life takes a thrilling and terrifying turn.
Up until now, Roselyn believed she had a normal life, her family managed to keep her Grail identity a secret even from Roselyn but now she’s transforming, garnering supernatural powers she can’t control. Daniel is the one person who can help her, her personal Knight of Templar vowed to protect her no matter what.
When she’s betrayed by the very Knights of Templar’s sworn to keep her safe. Not knowing who to trust, Daniel and Roselyn run from the sect of Templars that want to use her as a weapon.
Can Roselyn escape the treacherous Templars intent on weaponizing her, learn to utilize her newly found powers, and keep everyone she loves safe?
All Roselyn Garcia wanted was to teach alongside her father at the University of Berkeley in the History Department, but once she meets her father’s new handsome assistant, Daniel Smith, Roselyn’s life takes a thrilling and terrifying turn.
Up until now, Roselyn believed she had a normal life, her family managed to keep her Grail identity a secret even from Roselyn but now she’s transforming, garnering supernatural powers she can’t control. Daniel is the one person who can help her, her personal Knight of Templar vowed to protect her no matter what.
When she’s betrayed by the very Knights of Templar’s sworn to keep her safe. Not knowing who to trust, Daniel and Roselyn run from the sect of Templars that want to use her as a weapon.
Can Roselyn escape the treacherous Templars intent on weaponizing her, learn to utilize her newly found powers, and keep everyone she loves safe?
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 7, 2022
35 people are currently reading
885 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Bowman
12 books53 followersJL Bowman grew up imagining, dreaming, reading, and writing. She is a wife to the Captain of Fun, mother to a freethinking spawn, inspirerer of young minds, organizer for employee rights, and at night, a writer of adventures, love, and sadness.
Teacher
Writer
Avid reader, hiker, baseball watcher and adventurer.
You can often find Ms. Bowman at her computer weaving her next novel.
Teacher
Writer
Avid reader, hiker, baseball watcher and adventurer.
You can often find Ms. Bowman at her computer weaving her next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
July 20, 2022
Hmmm I have many thoughts about this book. First of all, the cover is gorgeous and is what peaked my interest in the first place. The title is also unique and very eye catching. The blurb sealed the deal.
I enjoyed this story but felt like there were many moments that just dragged. There were specific details inserted during seemingly unimportant scenes and very important scenes that felt like they were missing details and therefore we were missing the gravity of what was happening. And what happened to Mr. Long's gift that he gave to Rosie? A lot of the dialogue and writing also felt very formal, almost too stiff at times. Paired with strange chapter breaks, it made the story feel choppy. Along with that, there were a few punctuation errors and many missing commas, primarily when addressing someone. Such as, "How are you Rosie?" instead of "How are you, Rosie?" It was pretty distracting since I had to reread many sentences to try and figure out the cadence of the sentence.
The plot was interesting and I found this twist on the Holy Grail to be refreshing. However, I didn't feel that much of a connection between Daniel and Rosie. I liked that he called her Rose and there was some good tension, but I didn't feel the chemistry. I'm glad Rosie didn't immediately say she loved him back when he told her he loved her... that would've felt too insta-lovey for me. It makes sense though that he would be in love since he's literally watched her for practically her whole life. I don't know if they really specify the age difference, but it doesn't come off as creepy or anything. So far, this is a fade to black romance with only brief kisses and mentions of passion.
Some of the plot points were strange, and one that I just didn't like was the "love over hate" philosophy that Rosie's dad and Daniel were preaching. Maybe I read too much dark romance, but I completely agreed with Rosie when she said Matthew should die. Over and over, Daniel kept saying to choose love, choose peace. It was a little too kumbaya for me. But, I understand that this is imperative to the story and there are physical consequences if Rosie does kill, so I get it.
Overall, a very interesting concept and I'm curious to see how it plays out in book 2.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed this story but felt like there were many moments that just dragged. There were specific details inserted during seemingly unimportant scenes and very important scenes that felt like they were missing details and therefore we were missing the gravity of what was happening. And what happened to Mr. Long's gift that he gave to Rosie? A lot of the dialogue and writing also felt very formal, almost too stiff at times. Paired with strange chapter breaks, it made the story feel choppy. Along with that, there were a few punctuation errors and many missing commas, primarily when addressing someone. Such as, "How are you Rosie?" instead of "How are you, Rosie?" It was pretty distracting since I had to reread many sentences to try and figure out the cadence of the sentence.
The plot was interesting and I found this twist on the Holy Grail to be refreshing. However, I didn't feel that much of a connection between Daniel and Rosie. I liked that he called her Rose and there was some good tension, but I didn't feel the chemistry. I'm glad Rosie didn't immediately say she loved him back when he told her he loved her... that would've felt too insta-lovey for me. It makes sense though that he would be in love since he's literally watched her for practically her whole life. I don't know if they really specify the age difference, but it doesn't come off as creepy or anything. So far, this is a fade to black romance with only brief kisses and mentions of passion.
Some of the plot points were strange, and one that I just didn't like was the "love over hate" philosophy that Rosie's dad and Daniel were preaching. Maybe I read too much dark romance, but I completely agreed with Rosie when she said Matthew should die. Over and over, Daniel kept saying to choose love, choose peace. It was a little too kumbaya for me. But, I understand that this is imperative to the story and there are physical consequences if Rosie does kill, so I get it.
Overall, a very interesting concept and I'm curious to see how it plays out in book 2.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 6, 2022
Thank you to BookSirens for providing the ARC for my honest review.
I loved the premise of this story. It immediately captured my attention. It unfortunately did not meet my expectations. I personally think it could have used another round or two of edits and reviewing with beta readers. The story felt a little all of over the place and I felt like I was missing information during other moments. And I understood that the main character is supposed to be a little awkward, but it didn’t come across natural. There were also kind of whiplash moments between the main character and love interest regarding their temperament and feelings that also didn’t come off as natural. I still think this is a super interesting story idea that could have used a little more time to clean up the rough edges.
I loved the premise of this story. It immediately captured my attention. It unfortunately did not meet my expectations. I personally think it could have used another round or two of edits and reviewing with beta readers. The story felt a little all of over the place and I felt like I was missing information during other moments. And I understood that the main character is supposed to be a little awkward, but it didn’t come across natural. There were also kind of whiplash moments between the main character and love interest regarding their temperament and feelings that also didn’t come off as natural. I still think this is a super interesting story idea that could have used a little more time to clean up the rough edges.
July 18, 2022
I selected this book because I am a “huge” Dan Brown, and Knights Templar fan.
The plot line was very well crafted. Historically, I seemed to jive with my knowledge of the places and times.
The pacing is superb and full of nonstop action-a true page turner.
Great characters lead the list of platitudes. I love books with a strong female lead. This is a good example of a strong female hero with supernatural powers. I could see this as a basis for a movie.
I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The plot line was very well crafted. Historically, I seemed to jive with my knowledge of the places and times.
The pacing is superb and full of nonstop action-a true page turner.
Great characters lead the list of platitudes. I love books with a strong female lead. This is a good example of a strong female hero with supernatural powers. I could see this as a basis for a movie.
I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 25, 2024
So, the book was quite a journey for me. It was a fairly engaging read, and the story flowed well. It was an interesting twist of a Grail story, which I appreciated, and there was a wide variety of characters and plot lines. What I didn’t like was that the characters of Matthew and Eddie were so evil, manipulative, and violent. The scenes with those characters made me want to close the book and stop reading. There is too much violence and torture for my taste. But I did finish and did enjoy the book for the most part, but I wouldn't read it again.
June 22, 2022
Super interesting story! I read it cover to cover in about 2 days! I just wanted to keep reading to see what happens!
June 6, 2023
Good plot
The cover of the book is very attractive and the title of the book is also interesting. The storyline is good and I really enjoyed the plot twists. The character development of Roselyn was great. I really love reading strong female characters.
I really liked the writing style of the author and as I have already read the second part of the book before reading the first part I can say that the story becomes more and more interesting. Good job done by the author.
The cover of the book is very attractive and the title of the book is also interesting. The storyline is good and I really enjoyed the plot twists. The character development of Roselyn was great. I really love reading strong female characters.
I really liked the writing style of the author and as I have already read the second part of the book before reading the first part I can say that the story becomes more and more interesting. Good job done by the author.
July 11, 2022
This is was a very original and innovative, contemporary retelling of the Knight Templar and Holy Grail story set into a modern day context. It contained romance, action, adventure. The plot had lots of twists and turns with the main characters it would seem being on a rollercoaster fight for survival within the intense, turmoil and shock of realisation that Roselyn's life had never been "normal" because everyone including her "tight family" and "extended family" had created this smokescreen of lies and cover ups to try to let her have a normal life away from both danger and her ultimate destiny.
The cover of the book was gorgeously eye-catching and so well done. It really grabbed the reader's interest, drawing them in, wanting to get reading. Coupled with the well described and written burb it promised to be an amazing story that took the reader on a journey with Roselyn and Daniel. I liked the main characters although I didn't like the many references to extreme affluence - it was wasn't needed from the detail it was obvious there was extreme wealth and resources and therefore came across as quite ostentatious and crass.
I also didn't like the fact that one minute they just met and the next they was in love, even though there was exceptional intense circumstances to it felt like we went from 0-70mph in 6 seconds so the reader missed out on so much finer, deeper, intense detail that would have really developed there personalities and how they connected with each other much better than the "electric touch", which was part of the story. "Relationships that start under intense circumstances never last" as Sandra Bullock said in Speed!
I really liked both Roselyn and Daniel's characters but I wanted to see more of there personalities not just what was on the surface that supported the story line and where it was going. There was beautiful moments like in the cabin and seeing the sunrise, dinner dressed up and dancing to the radio on the last night and the way Daniel always supported Roselyn and allowed her to make choices. I felt in the scene where she learn't to move rocks it reminded me of similar in Stars Wars. I loved how the Bowman created that safe space in the story not just to develop Roselyn and her powers but also her relationship with Daniel and it gave the story much needed breathing space.
Bowman also introduced and started developing the characters of her "family" and "extended" family which she did so well and whether they will have more prominence in the following books remains to be seen. From the way she kept going on about how family matters and all there for each other (tightness of the group) - I would hope so otherwise it was not necessary.
So to sum it up, yes it was an enjoyable read but felt if it needed a really good edit (nothing major as it would take away from the story and the bones are there), taking out all the repetitions, grammatical and punctuation errors and tightening the loose ends up in the appropriate parts of the story as it felt like it was all over the place in places. This would really improve the whole story taking it to a much higher professional level, "polishing it off" then it would be an absolutely fantastic read up there with the best of them and I would have given it 5 stars.
I am very thankful to BookSirens and the Authoress for the opportunity of being able to read this ARC which I received for free in return for my honest review, which I am leaving voluntarily.
The cover of the book was gorgeously eye-catching and so well done. It really grabbed the reader's interest, drawing them in, wanting to get reading. Coupled with the well described and written burb it promised to be an amazing story that took the reader on a journey with Roselyn and Daniel. I liked the main characters although I didn't like the many references to extreme affluence - it was wasn't needed from the detail it was obvious there was extreme wealth and resources and therefore came across as quite ostentatious and crass.
I also didn't like the fact that one minute they just met and the next they was in love, even though there was exceptional intense circumstances to it felt like we went from 0-70mph in 6 seconds so the reader missed out on so much finer, deeper, intense detail that would have really developed there personalities and how they connected with each other much better than the "electric touch", which was part of the story. "Relationships that start under intense circumstances never last" as Sandra Bullock said in Speed!
I really liked both Roselyn and Daniel's characters but I wanted to see more of there personalities not just what was on the surface that supported the story line and where it was going. There was beautiful moments like in the cabin and seeing the sunrise, dinner dressed up and dancing to the radio on the last night and the way Daniel always supported Roselyn and allowed her to make choices. I felt in the scene where she learn't to move rocks it reminded me of similar in Stars Wars. I loved how the Bowman created that safe space in the story not just to develop Roselyn and her powers but also her relationship with Daniel and it gave the story much needed breathing space.
Bowman also introduced and started developing the characters of her "family" and "extended" family which she did so well and whether they will have more prominence in the following books remains to be seen. From the way she kept going on about how family matters and all there for each other (tightness of the group) - I would hope so otherwise it was not necessary.
So to sum it up, yes it was an enjoyable read but felt if it needed a really good edit (nothing major as it would take away from the story and the bones are there), taking out all the repetitions, grammatical and punctuation errors and tightening the loose ends up in the appropriate parts of the story as it felt like it was all over the place in places. This would really improve the whole story taking it to a much higher professional level, "polishing it off" then it would be an absolutely fantastic read up there with the best of them and I would have given it 5 stars.
I am very thankful to BookSirens and the Authoress for the opportunity of being able to read this ARC which I received for free in return for my honest review, which I am leaving voluntarily.
January 1, 2023
This book has some incredible potential in my opinion. It was the first book to catch my eye on this site, and due to being a single mom of 3 children I read it slow and steady in seconds here and seconds there. I never lost interest despite the slow process. My mind kept going back to this story.
The Amazing points:
1: The family relationships you build are strong and tangible and they make sense. This is by far the strongest aspect of the book for me. Her relationship with the different members of her family, blood or otherwise, are strong and you made me root for them. Aunt Gabby and Cousin Melody were two of my favorites. Strong women that uphold strong women in a way that isn't just violent or manly is something a lot of writers miss the mark on, but you hit it right on the bullseye. Add the Hispanic background and I was in love. I wanted more of that too. More Spanish. More of the Hispanic/American culture, which is our own culture separate from Hispanic or American culture. It's so nice to read about something familiar as that and I wanted more. Not an overwhelming amount, just enough to meet that craving.
2: The story base. The broth that all the words swim in. It's such a good idea. Just adding to the strength of this line of women as a delicious bonus.
3: Not insta-love. That one is self-explanatory. Their romance makes sense. These are educated people. She is awkward to the point of me wanting to hide her under the table and tell her to shush sometimes, but she comes at her romantic relationship in a way that befits her level of education. But God does she ever put her foot in her mouth. It's a wonder Daniel knew what she was talking about half the time.
4: The way you describe the different settings. My mind is very good at building settings around a story, but I honestly didn't need to fill many gaps. Especially in the beginning when you are establishing the setting of the book. I want to live at the roundhouse.
5: Daniel and Papa's twist. Wonderful.
The Constructive Criticism
1: Story Flow. There were quite a few times when the flow of a scene felt a little ADHD (For lack of a better term. Sorry.) It is difficult to give examples in this medium, as I do not want to give anything away. I will attempt two. The final fight was a little messy, and lacked focus and continuity. It really needed some more focused time and attention to detail. So much happens in a few paragraphs, and I wanted to see the whole battle. Battles written in books in the Eragon series (The Inheritance Cycle) and others in the fantasy genre may be good comparisons? There are a few from just one perspective that give great detail without being long and drawn out, which may be what you were trying to avoid? A good battle scene can make a good book even better. The other example I will attempt is the romance. Do they have sex or do they not? While I do not mind a steamy scene personally, I know some authors prefer a tasteful transition to black so to speak. I really was not sure which you were going for. One towards the end was so vague I didn't know they had made love until paragraphs later and I'm still not completely sure.
2: Overall, a laser focus on continuity would level your book up by quite a lot.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Amazing points:
1: The family relationships you build are strong and tangible and they make sense. This is by far the strongest aspect of the book for me. Her relationship with the different members of her family, blood or otherwise, are strong and you made me root for them. Aunt Gabby and Cousin Melody were two of my favorites. Strong women that uphold strong women in a way that isn't just violent or manly is something a lot of writers miss the mark on, but you hit it right on the bullseye. Add the Hispanic background and I was in love. I wanted more of that too. More Spanish. More of the Hispanic/American culture, which is our own culture separate from Hispanic or American culture. It's so nice to read about something familiar as that and I wanted more. Not an overwhelming amount, just enough to meet that craving.
2: The story base. The broth that all the words swim in. It's such a good idea. Just adding to the strength of this line of women as a delicious bonus.
3: Not insta-love. That one is self-explanatory. Their romance makes sense. These are educated people. She is awkward to the point of me wanting to hide her under the table and tell her to shush sometimes, but she comes at her romantic relationship in a way that befits her level of education. But God does she ever put her foot in her mouth. It's a wonder Daniel knew what she was talking about half the time.
4: The way you describe the different settings. My mind is very good at building settings around a story, but I honestly didn't need to fill many gaps. Especially in the beginning when you are establishing the setting of the book. I want to live at the roundhouse.
5: Daniel and Papa's twist. Wonderful.
The Constructive Criticism
1: Story Flow. There were quite a few times when the flow of a scene felt a little ADHD (For lack of a better term. Sorry.) It is difficult to give examples in this medium, as I do not want to give anything away. I will attempt two. The final fight was a little messy, and lacked focus and continuity. It really needed some more focused time and attention to detail. So much happens in a few paragraphs, and I wanted to see the whole battle. Battles written in books in the Eragon series (The Inheritance Cycle) and others in the fantasy genre may be good comparisons? There are a few from just one perspective that give great detail without being long and drawn out, which may be what you were trying to avoid? A good battle scene can make a good book even better. The other example I will attempt is the romance. Do they have sex or do they not? While I do not mind a steamy scene personally, I know some authors prefer a tasteful transition to black so to speak. I really was not sure which you were going for. One towards the end was so vague I didn't know they had made love until paragraphs later and I'm still not completely sure.
2: Overall, a laser focus on continuity would level your book up by quite a lot.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 21, 2022
This book was different from a lot of the books I usually read, I was really drawn in by the title and as I started reading the book I came to enjoy some parts of this story and also how a bookworm was made into the main character. A proud moment.
The storyline was interesting, however, there were some points that felt a bit off that either lead away from problems or changed the topic of conversation at its most important time. The time jumps seemed random which caused the book to feel rushed and caused gaps in between the story which lead to many questions about matters that happened at the beginning of the book.
For a first book, I expected a more background information check so readers won't be as confused however if the book is written to go along with how confused Roselyn was during everything then it was done quite well.
The take on the holy grail was new and gave the book an interesting look internally, with the twists at the end I do want to see how everything plays out as the ending felt very rushed with so much being told, found out and revealed in a chaotic mess sort of way. The ideology of how the grail is and should be pertaining more to how love must always be the answer was weird in certain circumstances where those who truly deserved to die should have died, it would have been justified seeing as to how badly Roselyn was treated and put through. Perhaps book 2 will clarify all the questions book 1 has brought up.
The sentence structure wasn't bad, with a few grammatical errors here and there but that can be overlooked a little bit, there was a lot of formality but that's expected seeing the level of education our characters have and their scholarly knowledge. The pacing felt rushed as the events had too many time jumps, gaps and unnecessary information that wasn't relevant to the story, the chemistry between Roselyn and Daniel felt forced In a way, more of he's seen her, her entire life and she basically wants to get laid type of way.
Overall it was a good read and I found myself to have enjoyed the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The storyline was interesting, however, there were some points that felt a bit off that either lead away from problems or changed the topic of conversation at its most important time. The time jumps seemed random which caused the book to feel rushed and caused gaps in between the story which lead to many questions about matters that happened at the beginning of the book.
For a first book, I expected a more background information check so readers won't be as confused however if the book is written to go along with how confused Roselyn was during everything then it was done quite well.
The take on the holy grail was new and gave the book an interesting look internally, with the twists at the end I do want to see how everything plays out as the ending felt very rushed with so much being told, found out and revealed in a chaotic mess sort of way. The ideology of how the grail is and should be pertaining more to how love must always be the answer was weird in certain circumstances where those who truly deserved to die should have died, it would have been justified seeing as to how badly Roselyn was treated and put through. Perhaps book 2 will clarify all the questions book 1 has brought up.
The sentence structure wasn't bad, with a few grammatical errors here and there but that can be overlooked a little bit, there was a lot of formality but that's expected seeing the level of education our characters have and their scholarly knowledge. The pacing felt rushed as the events had too many time jumps, gaps and unnecessary information that wasn't relevant to the story, the chemistry between Roselyn and Daniel felt forced In a way, more of he's seen her, her entire life and she basically wants to get laid type of way.
Overall it was a good read and I found myself to have enjoyed the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 8, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book was a bit of a struggle. There were so many times I enjoyed myself, but there was so much dissonance within the book itself.
It could be Christian Romance, adventure a la DaVinci Code, regular romance, fantasy, adventure. But it was back and forth with no solid consistency toward a single main genre.
The concept itself is fabulous; I love the idea. But it needs some finessing. The amount of action is phenomenal - but would have liked to see the power do some good and further explanations into the power and teaching.
Information about characters was provided that did not relate to plot or story line; and it impeded the flow. With the excess information being over redundant; ie: to reinforce how loving the family was, that they were protective, or so-and-so was always there (yet the character was only in a couple parts of the book).
This repetition made hard to build a relationship with the characters; lots of talk about relationships and character hx without event/world/climax building. You fall in love with characters because of their actions and interactions in the story. Not because you get an oral history on them. I wanted more plot. Less info on what they were wearing and how they came to know each other 15 years ago.
There was a high level of focus on the idea of forgiveness, but no idea of natural consequences or accountability of the villains. The idea of forgiving only to let them continue to attack you - possibly for the rest of your/their life was very frustrating (this is a very general view of the plot). But it seemed to focus on the idea that you forgive regardless of what the cost is to yourself. As a result you let others protect you or solve your problems for you. Which is not always realistic.
This book was a bit of a struggle. There were so many times I enjoyed myself, but there was so much dissonance within the book itself.
It could be Christian Romance, adventure a la DaVinci Code, regular romance, fantasy, adventure. But it was back and forth with no solid consistency toward a single main genre.
The concept itself is fabulous; I love the idea. But it needs some finessing. The amount of action is phenomenal - but would have liked to see the power do some good and further explanations into the power and teaching.
Information about characters was provided that did not relate to plot or story line; and it impeded the flow. With the excess information being over redundant; ie: to reinforce how loving the family was, that they were protective, or so-and-so was always there (yet the character was only in a couple parts of the book).
This repetition made hard to build a relationship with the characters; lots of talk about relationships and character hx without event/world/climax building. You fall in love with characters because of their actions and interactions in the story. Not because you get an oral history on them. I wanted more plot. Less info on what they were wearing and how they came to know each other 15 years ago.
There was a high level of focus on the idea of forgiveness, but no idea of natural consequences or accountability of the villains. The idea of forgiving only to let them continue to attack you - possibly for the rest of your/their life was very frustrating (this is a very general view of the plot). But it seemed to focus on the idea that you forgive regardless of what the cost is to yourself. As a result you let others protect you or solve your problems for you. Which is not always realistic.
November 3, 2022
I loved the premise of this book, one that has been used before, but which this book does very well. Rose Garcia is a history graduate, longing to work with her father, who has filled her with the myths of the Holy Grail and Knights Templar. But she hasn’t been told the whole story, as she finds out when she starts to have dreams that feel so real and is sure people are watching her. When Daniel appears, it feels like she has known him for ever but can she trust him?
This is such a good book, one I wanted to read quickly but also wanted to take my time to savour. The story of the Holy Grail has intrigued people for centuries and this is a good interpretation of it, and very plausible. How would people treat a new Messiah? Or people with powers that can’t be explained. There will always be people who would want to destroy them, use them to their own ends or worship. There is also the power of love, that can make or break you. The background to Rose’s life comes through slowly, building up nicely, and adding the connections to various people in the book. Can’t wait for the next book. Really good read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is such a good book, one I wanted to read quickly but also wanted to take my time to savour. The story of the Holy Grail has intrigued people for centuries and this is a good interpretation of it, and very plausible. How would people treat a new Messiah? Or people with powers that can’t be explained. There will always be people who would want to destroy them, use them to their own ends or worship. There is also the power of love, that can make or break you. The background to Rose’s life comes through slowly, building up nicely, and adding the connections to various people in the book. Can’t wait for the next book. Really good read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 14, 2022
I chose this book to read because the premise sounded really good. A modern-day Grail story - very interesting. The story starts out very good, catches my interest. But what lost me was the relationship between the two main characters, Daniel and Rose. There was an attraction between the two but then it just jumped into the next level, and I didn't feel the connection. Their relationship throughout just didn't sit well with me. I feel that if the author had given us more of Daniel's thoughts about Rose in the beginning, it would've helped build their connection. The book opens up with Daniel's POV but then we don't get it again and I feel that it could've helped their connection if we did.
The book needed more editing - misspelled words and grammatical errors - that distracted me while I was reading.
There were some slow parts in the middle that seemed to drag on (her training) but the book does end with some curious developments that makes the reader want to come back and find out what happens in Book 2.
Thank you to BookSirens and the Author for an advanced copy for which I voluntarily leave my review.
The book needed more editing - misspelled words and grammatical errors - that distracted me while I was reading.
There were some slow parts in the middle that seemed to drag on (her training) but the book does end with some curious developments that makes the reader want to come back and find out what happens in Book 2.
Thank you to BookSirens and the Author for an advanced copy for which I voluntarily leave my review.
March 7, 2023
I’d give this 4.5 if i could. I really enjoyed this new take on the Holy Grail, very imaginative! It was fast paced, action packed. It had romance, but wasnt your typical fairy tale insta-love, there was a build to it. All the characters were easy to… click with. My absolute favorite was Melody, i really hope we see more of her in the next installment! Without giving much of the story away, i was pleasantly surprised by this book, the author delivers. There was ups and downs, laughter and tears (from me, i was INVESTED!)
A few things i did not like. The story MOSTLY flowed really well, but there were a few times where it felt kind of… disconjoined. Not alot, but enough to take notice. Also, the main female character. I kind of loved her, kind of hated her. Half her problems could have been solved if she hadn’t jumped feet first into the action, and just listened to her loved ones.
Overall a great read, i would definitely recommend adding it to your TBR shelf!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A few things i did not like. The story MOSTLY flowed really well, but there were a few times where it felt kind of… disconjoined. Not alot, but enough to take notice. Also, the main female character. I kind of loved her, kind of hated her. Half her problems could have been solved if she hadn’t jumped feet first into the action, and just listened to her loved ones.
Overall a great read, i would definitely recommend adding it to your TBR shelf!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 15, 2022
Firstly, I am sending my many thanks to Book Sirens for sending me an ARC of this. I am very proud to read and review this awesome book!
It was such a fantastic novel, a page-turner that kept you engaged till the very end. The world construction is intricate, and the characters are complex. It was an emotional read, taking on our main character's anger and anguish after her guardian was slain had me reaching for the Kleenex. The finale, although not a cliffhanger, does leave you craving the next book.
I received a free early review copy and am voluntarily leaving this review. I'll admit that I couldn't put it down. I like the story's idea, nonstop action, strong heroine with supernatural powers, her badass protective knight, loving family, not knowing where the next threat or treachery would come from, and the stunning climax.
It was such a fantastic novel, a page-turner that kept you engaged till the very end. The world construction is intricate, and the characters are complex. It was an emotional read, taking on our main character's anger and anguish after her guardian was slain had me reaching for the Kleenex. The finale, although not a cliffhanger, does leave you craving the next book.
I received a free early review copy and am voluntarily leaving this review. I'll admit that I couldn't put it down. I like the story's idea, nonstop action, strong heroine with supernatural powers, her badass protective knight, loving family, not knowing where the next threat or treachery would come from, and the stunning climax.
October 26, 2024
The Holy Grail and Knights Templar
Bringing the Grail to life can be challenging, JL Bowman does an excellent job drawing you in and keeping you captivated. As a newly graduated scholar, Roselyn is very familiar with the Knights Templar stories...just how familiar is to be seen! Is her father's new assistant Daniel, really a scholar or is he here to protect her? Who can she trust, family, friends, the people who have always been on the periphery of her life? When her powers start to emerge she is terribly confused, how much has she not been told and why?
Very emotional story, some scenes angry, some horribly evil. Overall, well written with enough intrigue and unanswered questions to have you reaching for book 2.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions in this review are my own.
Bringing the Grail to life can be challenging, JL Bowman does an excellent job drawing you in and keeping you captivated. As a newly graduated scholar, Roselyn is very familiar with the Knights Templar stories...just how familiar is to be seen! Is her father's new assistant Daniel, really a scholar or is he here to protect her? Who can she trust, family, friends, the people who have always been on the periphery of her life? When her powers start to emerge she is terribly confused, how much has she not been told and why?
Very emotional story, some scenes angry, some horribly evil. Overall, well written with enough intrigue and unanswered questions to have you reaching for book 2.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions in this review are my own.
August 31, 2022
The Knights of Roselyn is a mixture of fantastic, romance and complex family dynamics. I found the book a little slow to get going but much more enjoyable past the half way mark. It wasn’t what I’d expected but it did offer an interesting take on the Grail and the Knights Templar.
I found the relationships between the Grail and her Knight is the most interesting part. Both characters grow in depth as the journey progresses.
There were parts of the story that I found a little harder to swallow, I think because of the modern setting. It’s still an enjoyable read for anyone into intrigue of the Templars.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I found the relationships between the Grail and her Knight is the most interesting part. Both characters grow in depth as the journey progresses.
There were parts of the story that I found a little harder to swallow, I think because of the modern setting. It’s still an enjoyable read for anyone into intrigue of the Templars.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 18, 2022
This is book one of the Knights of Roselyn series that follows the holy grail. Roselyn is a living grail, not a chalice made of precious metal, but she is equally coveted. It’s a great read for those who enjoy the Knights Templar mysteries. There are strong characters and a budding romance to boot. Roselyn has quite some funny thoughts and humorous quips. The funniest on is when she is sweetly turned down out of a feeling of duty, calling it rejection by poetry. The story has a modern concept. There is a lot of action and plenty of twists and turns. I am looking forward to see where fate will lead Roselyn and what she will do with her powers.
I received an advanced reader copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of my own accord.
I received an advanced reader copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of my own accord.
April 20, 2023
This book had so much potential! I loved how the story was setting up, all the plot lines and the secrecy. However, this book is terrible in so many ways.
There are so many plot holes it's unbelievable. For instance, one minute Rose is walking down a tunnel and the next paragraph it talks about her getting up from her chair. Like what? There are at least several plot holes per chapter where one thing is said and other things are done. I just couldn't keep up with the story.
The next thing is there was so many grammatical and editorial errors it was hard to read. Like did anybody proofread this book? Did anyone edit it or at least tell the Author "How does this connect to this?" Because NONE OF IT MADE SENSE!
UGH
There are so many plot holes it's unbelievable. For instance, one minute Rose is walking down a tunnel and the next paragraph it talks about her getting up from her chair. Like what? There are at least several plot holes per chapter where one thing is said and other things are done. I just couldn't keep up with the story.
The next thing is there was so many grammatical and editorial errors it was hard to read. Like did anybody proofread this book? Did anyone edit it or at least tell the Author "How does this connect to this?" Because NONE OF IT MADE SENSE!
UGH
June 22, 2022
What if, everything you thought you knew about your life, was wrong???
Anyone who is interested in the Holy Grail or The Knights Templar would enjoy this story line. If you have ever had a discussion, that started with what if, the grail is a human; instead of a cup,then this book is for you!
This story is a work of fiction; with a hint of plausibility. There is a bit of a love story (not what I would call mushy) but it does help to explain the story.
I am anxiously awaiting for Dark Promises, book 2!
Anyone who is interested in the Holy Grail or The Knights Templar would enjoy this story line. If you have ever had a discussion, that started with what if, the grail is a human; instead of a cup,then this book is for you!
This story is a work of fiction; with a hint of plausibility. There is a bit of a love story (not what I would call mushy) but it does help to explain the story.
I am anxiously awaiting for Dark Promises, book 2!
August 13, 2022
Well this book was not was I was expecting.
It was ok. Really easy to read but it felt too simple.
Some of the things people said just seemed unnecessarily childish. I can't place why I felt that way. I just thought someone that age wouldn't have did things like that. It was weird.
I liked Rose and Daniel. Their connection was electric and for that alone I may read the next one.
The twist at the end was unexpected and I was actually shocked.
All in all a solid 3 star read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It was ok. Really easy to read but it felt too simple.
Some of the things people said just seemed unnecessarily childish. I can't place why I felt that way. I just thought someone that age wouldn't have did things like that. It was weird.
I liked Rose and Daniel. Their connection was electric and for that alone I may read the next one.
The twist at the end was unexpected and I was actually shocked.
All in all a solid 3 star read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 29, 2025
I received a digital ARC of this book. I have enjoyed other books by this author, and always jump at the chance to read a book early. This book was different than my typical read, but I couldn’t put it down! I read it in one day (thanks to being on Spring Break!) Roselyn is an adult and finds out her whole life has been a lie. As you walk with her through the discovery and the trials, you want her to succeed and overcome! This book will have you on the edge of your seat as you turn each page. I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series!
June 5, 2022
A great page turner that keeps you enthralled till the end. The world building is detailed, with complex characters. It was an emotional read, taking on the frustrations of our main character and the sadness when her protector was killed had me grabbing the tissues. I liked the ending was not a real cliffhanger but does leave you wanting the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 6, 2023
So I really enjoyed parts of this book. However I feel that the first part of the book really dragged however major events near the end felt very rushed. I would have liked to see things a bit more evenly spread or even some earlier parts shortened. But overall a really exciting read. I look forward to reading the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 10, 2022
I received a free copy through Book Sirens. Wow!!! I couldn't put it down. I loved the premise of the story, non-stop action, strong heroine with mystical powers, her badass protective knight, loving family, not knowing where the next threat or betrayal was going to come from and the shocking ending.
December 14, 2022
I love stories about the Knights Templar and the Holy Grail. This was such a unique take on these stories. It’s filled with twists, danger, intrigue, family and love. There is quite a bit of action I. The book that keeps the pages quickly turning. I’m excited to already have book 2 of this series in my hands to start reading next.
June 24, 2022
I will give it 3.5 stars and round down to 3. Far too much use of the same terminology. "Jet lag" was used a total of 12 times in the book with 8 or so in the first two chapters. We all know Rose has jet lag. A little more research is needed. Although good use of Navy terminology. Fun book and I'll recommend. This guidance is only for the author for future writings. Good Luck!
September 3, 2022
I received an advanced copy of this book from book sirens in exchange for my review.
This book was disappointing. It has all the makings of what could be a great book, but it left alot to be desired. The romance was unconvincing and felt forced. It very much felt like a B-series teen romance novel.
What intrigued me initially about the book was the magic and historical aspects, which were present but lacking. If there would have been more character building and world building around that instead of the romance I would have definitely enjoyed it more.
This book was disappointing. It has all the makings of what could be a great book, but it left alot to be desired. The romance was unconvincing and felt forced. It very much felt like a B-series teen romance novel.
What intrigued me initially about the book was the magic and historical aspects, which were present but lacking. If there would have been more character building and world building around that instead of the romance I would have definitely enjoyed it more.
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