What do you think?
Rate this book
A Dusting of Syn
As the seventh son of a duke, Keran of Bristol never thought to have his own lordship. So when King Edward IV offers him a bride and a castle near the Scottish border, he is ecstatic. However, when he arrives at the country keep, he finds that His Majesty's court is not the only place where intrigue resides. Syndra of Mardoon knew that after her father's death, her stepmother would never allow her to be anything more than a servant in her own home. Threatened with the death of her friend if she doesn't cooperate, she hides in the shadows while her younger half sister is introduced to the new lord as his intended. With the scheming ploys put forth by her stepmother already in play, Syndra is reluctant to believe that the handsome new lord can set things right at Mardoon. But one touch of Keran's lips convinces Syndra otherwise, and she finds herself surrendering to him... mind, body and soul. [WARNING: This title features strong sexual situations that may be offensive to some readers, including but not limited to: explicit depiction of sexual intercourse, and graphic sexual language.]
ebook
First published January 1, 2008
12 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
About the author
Melinda Barron
128 books210 followersMelinda Barron loves to explore Egyptian tombs and temples, discover Mayan ruins, play in castles towers, and explore new cities and countries. She generally does it all from the comfort of her home by opening a book.
Melinda loves to lose herself between the pages of a book. The only thing she loves more is creating stories from the wonderful heroes and heroines that haunt her dreams and crowd her head. She believes love is for everyone, not just those who are a size 2. Her books are full of magic, suspense and love, in all sorts of shapes and sizes.
Mel currently lives in the Texas Panhandle, with two cats, and a file stuffed with new ideas to keep her typing fingers busy, and your heart engaged.
Mel also writes as Maura McMann
Email: bast_writer@yahoo.com
Melinda loves to lose herself between the pages of a book. The only thing she loves more is creating stories from the wonderful heroes and heroines that haunt her dreams and crowd her head. She believes love is for everyone, not just those who are a size 2. Her books are full of magic, suspense and love, in all sorts of shapes and sizes.
Mel currently lives in the Texas Panhandle, with two cats, and a file stuffed with new ideas to keep her typing fingers busy, and your heart engaged.
Mel also writes as Maura McMann
Email: bast_writer@yahoo.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
September 21, 2020
This is a quick read with a medieval version of a Cinderella story. Syndra and Keran are great characters with steamy chemistry and there is plenty of drama and intrigue. It does need some work on the language and historical side, needs a bit of editing. I did enjoy the story. A good read.
September 25, 2020
Intrigue begins at page one. The wicked stepmother Elizabeth is hiding Syndra from everyone. She is her father's first born and is slated to marry the new Lord of Mardoon Keran. However, Elizabeth has kept Syndra in hiding as a servant in her own home. If Syndra tries to take her rightful place Elizabeth will kill her best friend. When Keran arrives, he suspects treachery from the very start. He got a glimpse of Syndra and needed to meet her. When he did things became clearer. He continued his investigations and found that Elizabeth had sided with a group training on Mardoon land to over throw the king. Keran had to tread carefully. As his love for Syndra grows she becomes insecure when for appearances sake he has to pretend to court her stepsister. But Keran straightens her out. The bedroom scenes are explicit. Keran is a sensitive and thoughtful lover. It was sweet the way Syndra and Keran interacted with each other. Other times it was hot and heavy and quite sexy. With the King's help Keran was able to thwart the rebellion, have Elizabeth and one of her daughters arrested. The King would decide their fate. Keran married Syndra. The epilogue added just the right touch to end the story. I really enjoyed it and I do recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 21, 2020
⚖️⚖️ONE THRILLING JOURNEY⚖️⚖️
Exceptional! Melinda serves up one delectably delicious deep dish delight, delivering this incredibly composed debacle, keeping you riveted on a razors edge and frozen to your seat, catapulting this gem to staggering heights. Sparks fly as daring drama, churning turmoil, perilous intrigue, sinister acts, damning deception, underlying threats, escalating danger, spiraling suspense and intense situations, along with a boatload unnerving encounters, make for one mind-blowing adventure. The attraction and chemistry collides with such ardor, baring profound emotions, drawing our characters closer, binding them to one another perfectly. The characters, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow adding depth and diversity, transforming into genuine charismatic personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and graphic descriptions creating an elaborate backdrop that feels as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Fantastic job Melinda, thanks for sharing this amazing jewel with us.
Exceptional! Melinda serves up one delectably delicious deep dish delight, delivering this incredibly composed debacle, keeping you riveted on a razors edge and frozen to your seat, catapulting this gem to staggering heights. Sparks fly as daring drama, churning turmoil, perilous intrigue, sinister acts, damning deception, underlying threats, escalating danger, spiraling suspense and intense situations, along with a boatload unnerving encounters, make for one mind-blowing adventure. The attraction and chemistry collides with such ardor, baring profound emotions, drawing our characters closer, binding them to one another perfectly. The characters, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow adding depth and diversity, transforming into genuine charismatic personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and graphic descriptions creating an elaborate backdrop that feels as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Fantastic job Melinda, thanks for sharing this amazing jewel with us.
September 17, 2020
This was a thoroughly captivating read….
In this book we are able to enjoy the interactions between Keran of Bristol, he is surprised when he is offered the opportunity to marry a bride that will give him a title and castle by the Scottish border.
The woman that he happens to glance is attractive and he is drawn to her and is determined to find out who she is and discover her story. Syndra of Mardoon knew that her stepmother would indeed take over her home once her father died along with her daughters, she the rightful heir is treated as no more than a servant.
The handsome new lord is determined to right the wrongs that have been done and to make the desirable Syndra his, nothing worth getting is ever simple to achieve.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
In this book we are able to enjoy the interactions between Keran of Bristol, he is surprised when he is offered the opportunity to marry a bride that will give him a title and castle by the Scottish border.
The woman that he happens to glance is attractive and he is drawn to her and is determined to find out who she is and discover her story. Syndra of Mardoon knew that her stepmother would indeed take over her home once her father died along with her daughters, she the rightful heir is treated as no more than a servant.
The handsome new lord is determined to right the wrongs that have been done and to make the desirable Syndra his, nothing worth getting is ever simple to achieve.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
September 15, 2020
Enjoyed the story. It is well written, entertaining and keeps you wondering what is going to happen next. Keran is sent, by the king, to marry to late lord Richard’s eldest daughter, Syndra and become the new lord of the castle. Upon arriving, he is duped into believing another is his bride-to-be but he is quick to find his intended bride. There is danger lurking around every corner, threats are made and things are not as they appear on the surface. I enjoyed the story and the relationship/love that developed between Keran and Syndra was beautifully written. It is a great read and I would highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and are voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and are voluntarily leaving a review.
September 18, 2020
This is a retelling of Cinderella. Keran has been given the keep of Mardoon. He is to marry the eldest daughter, Syndra. But Syndra has been raised to be household help, not as the daughter of the Lord. Her stepmother, Elizabeth wants her oldest daughter to marry Keran so that she can keep control of the castle. Keran realizes that something is up right from the start. With help from some of his friends and the staff, he is able to thwart Elizabeth and have a HEA for him and Syndra. There is no power exchange except for some bedsport.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 19, 2020
I really enjoyed reading this Cinderella like tale modified into a more intense story of intrigue and treason in medieval England, with more than enough erotic sex to make it a very adult read. You have the obligatory evil stepmother, 2 step sisters, and a prince-like man looking for a bride, but the similarities end there. In this story the evil stepmother is a traitor to the king and Lord Keran is his very loyal servant, their battle of wills is epic and the conclusion is absolutely divine. Not much in the way of spankings but lots of graphic sex. All in all, a pretty good read. 4 Stars
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 21, 2020
This book was a fun and funny retelling of the classic Cinderella tale with a decidedly spicy twist. It’s a quick read, so there wasn’t the space to dig very deep into any of the characters. Which is a bit of a shame as there’s more than just the main relationship at work here and I think it could have been very interesting to expand more on those others. I really enjoyed seeing Syndra and Keran get their Happily Ever After, but I was a bit frustrated that most of the ‘justice’ takes place off-page. The vindictive part of me really wanted to witness the villains get their comeuppance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.
September 19, 2020
A hot Cinderella tale.
Looking for a steamy and really hot Cinderella tale than this is the book to pick up. Set in Medieval time you have a big hunk of knight saving the poor mistreated older daughter of the dead lord. There is an evil stepmother and a couple of stepsisters just to round off the tale. There are some twists in this one that made it a very interesting read. I enjoyed the book it was a quick and fun book to read. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
Looking for a steamy and really hot Cinderella tale than this is the book to pick up. Set in Medieval time you have a big hunk of knight saving the poor mistreated older daughter of the dead lord. There is an evil stepmother and a couple of stepsisters just to round off the tale. There are some twists in this one that made it a very interesting read. I enjoyed the book it was a quick and fun book to read. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
September 30, 2020
This is A Dusting of Syn by Melinda Barron and I loved reading this book. It had amazing characters with great chemistry and a good story line that grabbed me from the beginning. It's a Cinderella-type story that is set in medieval times and is the story of Syndra and Keran. Her stepmother has kept her hidden and told her that if she did not follow what she is supposed to do she would kill her friend. Keran knows things are not what they seem. It was an amazing story and I highly recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 1, 2020
This is my first time reading something by this author, but it won't be my last. I enjoyed the story and the writing style. A creative and unique story and full of great moments, this book will pull you right in and keep you engaged all the way through. Plenty of drama and intrigue to keep you turning the pages. The author does a great job of bringing the story to life with great characters that are lovable and endearing. Look forward to reading more by this author!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 21, 2020
This is a Cinderella story only better. It has castles and spies, intrigue and so much more. I really liked this book alot. It was entertaining and kept me engaged. Syn and Keran they were great characters and it was well written and just enjoyable. Great book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 6, 2020
Sometimes sin needs a little help... enter knight in shining armor
Over all a good read. I love Melinda Barron and enjoyed this book but it was not a favorite. Some great characters, some evil characters and some witty exchanges.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Over all a good read. I love Melinda Barron and enjoyed this book but it was not a favorite. Some great characters, some evil characters and some witty exchanges.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 25, 2020
A medieval retelling of Cinderella a well written short story that kept me turning pages. I enjoyed reading the seventh son of a duke, Keran of Bristol and Syndra of Mardoon's story. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 1, 2020
I fell in love with these characters and this story. there's mystery, action, Suspence some sensual scenes. this is a standalone with a HEA. I would definatly read more from this author
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 7, 2020
Kind of a new take on Cinderella except without a prince, but a lord instead. A story that captures your attention from the start and holds you there till the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 20, 2020
This was a real keeper. It was intriguing, adventurous and full of romance. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book in exchange for a free copy.
September 23, 2020
Loved this mid evil version on Cinderella. Keran & Cyndra had an intriguing book. I received a free copy of the book. And am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
November 29, 2014
4.5 Bookmarks - Originally posted on Wild on Books: http://www.wildonbooks.com/reviews/20...
As the seventh son of a duke, Keran of Bristol doesn’t have much of a chance to acquire land of his own. So when King Edward IV offers Keran a wife and, with her, a keep called Mardoon that is located near the Scottish border, Keran takes the opportunity. A wife and land of his own are exactly what Keran desires. Yet upon arriving at his new keep, Keran finds that all is not as it should be.
Since her father’s death, Syndra of Mardoon’s life has gone from bad to worse, thanks to her spiteful and calculating stepmother, Elizabeth. When word comes of the king’s plan, Elizabeth threatens Syndra with the death of her friend should Syndra not cooperate with Elizabeth’s devilish plot that will leave her daughter the lady of Mardoon and Elizabeth in control.
Keran is captivated by a mysterious beauty who he knows is more than she seems. The instant Keran and Syndra meet, passion burns brighter and hotter than either expected. But when the truth comes out, will the lovers be able to survive Elizabeth’s evil schemes?
It is probably a good thing I don’t own a time machine, because A DUSTING OF SYN makes me want nothing more than to take a step back in time to the fifteenth century. Of course, this desire is contingent upon there being a seductive hero such as Keran awaiting my arrival. With A DUSTING OF SYN, Melinda Barron has delivered a fantastic, engaging tale that is sure to sweep you off your feet.
Keran is the picture of the perfect hero. He’s strong, handsome, intelligent, and kind. He sees Syndra for the beauty she really is, which I find endearing. There is just something utterly delicious about a hardened warrior being tender with the woman he loves. As for Syndra, she is a delight. She’s sweet and slightly mischievous, with a touch of vulnerability that will grab your heart. She’s the kind of heroine you would love to have as a friend, were she real.
Individually, Keran and Syndra are wonderful characters that would win me over on their own. But when paired together? A DUSTING OF SYN might be set more than five hundred years in the past, but it would be handy to have a very modern fire extinguisher at the ready because the love scenes are hotter than a wildfire! In bed and out, Keran and Syndra are perfectly matched in every way.
A deliciously wicked adventure with a healthy dose of Cinderella charm makes A Dusting of Syn a joy to read. Truly, this book is a sinful (or is that synful?) delight.
As the seventh son of a duke, Keran of Bristol doesn’t have much of a chance to acquire land of his own. So when King Edward IV offers Keran a wife and, with her, a keep called Mardoon that is located near the Scottish border, Keran takes the opportunity. A wife and land of his own are exactly what Keran desires. Yet upon arriving at his new keep, Keran finds that all is not as it should be.
Since her father’s death, Syndra of Mardoon’s life has gone from bad to worse, thanks to her spiteful and calculating stepmother, Elizabeth. When word comes of the king’s plan, Elizabeth threatens Syndra with the death of her friend should Syndra not cooperate with Elizabeth’s devilish plot that will leave her daughter the lady of Mardoon and Elizabeth in control.
Keran is captivated by a mysterious beauty who he knows is more than she seems. The instant Keran and Syndra meet, passion burns brighter and hotter than either expected. But when the truth comes out, will the lovers be able to survive Elizabeth’s evil schemes?
It is probably a good thing I don’t own a time machine, because A DUSTING OF SYN makes me want nothing more than to take a step back in time to the fifteenth century. Of course, this desire is contingent upon there being a seductive hero such as Keran awaiting my arrival. With A DUSTING OF SYN, Melinda Barron has delivered a fantastic, engaging tale that is sure to sweep you off your feet.
Keran is the picture of the perfect hero. He’s strong, handsome, intelligent, and kind. He sees Syndra for the beauty she really is, which I find endearing. There is just something utterly delicious about a hardened warrior being tender with the woman he loves. As for Syndra, she is a delight. She’s sweet and slightly mischievous, with a touch of vulnerability that will grab your heart. She’s the kind of heroine you would love to have as a friend, were she real.
Individually, Keran and Syndra are wonderful characters that would win me over on their own. But when paired together? A DUSTING OF SYN might be set more than five hundred years in the past, but it would be handy to have a very modern fire extinguisher at the ready because the love scenes are hotter than a wildfire! In bed and out, Keran and Syndra are perfectly matched in every way.
A deliciously wicked adventure with a healthy dose of Cinderella charm makes A Dusting of Syn a joy to read. Truly, this book is a sinful (or is that synful?) delight.
December 20, 2014
A quick, fun historical romance which takes place in the time of King Edward IV. I have to state there is a lot more sex in this historical than one usually finds, but the plot is still interesting enough to keep the story alive. It's a "Cinderella" story with the sexy hero saving the poor and abused beautiful stepdaughter from the evil and cruel stepmother. Definitely no surprises to the plot, but the lusty and blatant sexual scenes were inspiring.
March 5, 2015
A short but a spicy version of the Cinderella story. Not too bad but lacked something to make it really good.
July 1, 2015
Cute story, not many surprises, but the characters are interesting and its well written.
April 2, 2017
Retelling of Cinderella.. Kinda
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews