BR The Crusader's Kiss

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Buddy read for The Crusader's Kiss

His dream of becoming a knight achieved, Bartholomew heads home to avenge his parents—only to find himself hunted and in need of the assistance of a most unlikely and unpredictable ally. Anna seeks justice with a disregard for the law that shocks Bartholomew, but the bold maiden’s tactics are as effective as her kisses are seductive. Does she truly wish to aid him in achieving his dream, or is she using him as a pawn in some scheme of her own?

This book is #3 in the Medieval series "The Champions of Saint Euphemia" by Claire Delacroix

Here is the link to the series page:
https://www.goodreads.com/series/1586...

Buddy read with Andrea CP and Joanna, all are welcome to join!

***When you comment, Please first mention the last chapter that you have completed and hide comments behind spoilers.

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

Alright! I intend to read some tonight.

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

I’ve just begun ch 2

(view spoiler)[

Ysmaine’s tears fell with her confession, for she felt great guilt at this loss. “We were betrayed by the other men hired for our party. Thibaud was killed, and we were robbed.”

The h and her maid are lucky they weren’t sold in the slave markets. Her blonde coloring would have fetched a high price—and NOT for duties of emptying chamber pots!
(hide spoiler)]

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Still in ch 2

I’m not going to hide below in spoiler bec the people referred are not on page at all and I’m positions for general discussion:

“And Raymond of Tripoli?” Wulfe demanded. “Was he killed defending his holding?” Terricus spared him a glance. “He left his lady in charge of the keep’s defense when he rode to Jerusalem to muster troops with the

I have seen Medieval HR where in order to make the h relatable to modern readers, she wears armor and swings a sword as well as trained knight.

I think a heroine who runs a castle, manages her husband’s castle, lands, serfs or defends the castle when husband is not home, is “strong” enough to me without improbable prowess with a sword or wearing chain mail.

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

I am finished with chapter 1, will try to read 2 tonight and respond!

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Yikes! I thought I was finishing ch 3. I just finished ch 4!

I’m going to stop for tonight. As per usual, I have others to read.

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

Andrea, I am kind of chuckling right, but I think we're reading two different books. I am most of the way through Ch. 2, and I have yet to meet Ysmaine. The book I have started has Bartholomew and Anna as the h&h.

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Joanna Loves Reading wrote: "Andrea, I am kind of chuckling right, but I think we're reading two different books. I am most of the way through Ch. 2, and I have yet to meet Ysmaine. The book I have started has Bartholomew and ..."

Yikes! I think you are right. Bartholomew is a squire here!

I’m going to contact the author bec though I clicked in KU to read what you described. I think I am reading book 1, The Crusader's Bride!

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

Yes, it sounded like it must book 1 or maybe 2. When I saw your post I was thinking that it was surprising Wulfe was part of the party, since it seemed like he would have stayed at his home.

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Joanna Loves Reading wrote: "Yes, it sounded like it must book 1 or maybe 2. When I saw your post I was thinking that it was surprising Wulfe was part of the party, since it seemed like he would have stayed at his home."

I contacted the Author and mentioned the problem. I also mentioned that myself and a fellow GRer were reading all of the series. Hopefully she'll check the other titles to make sure they are as they should be. I think that is probably something that can be fixed without too my trouble.

What a nuisance to have read 4 chapters!

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

I received a speedy response from Ms Cooke AKA CLaire Delacroix.

SHe suggested that I call support to ask them to Push the correct file to me. I think I downloaded this file a long time ago when the error was still in force and did not receive the update.

Grrr, but it happens. We have all sent a wrong file or pushed an incorrect button in the computer. I'm not mad at all. At least I enjoyed what I was reading!

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Easier said than done. I returned the book and re-checked it out in KU. Still book 1. I just spent nearly 1/2 hour on the phone with the kindle staff. They have taken the book off of the website until this is cleared up.

The author when I heard from her, said that another reader had contacted her about the problem and she said that she sent the correct file. It's still book 1. I think the person who contacted her probably did not recontact her to let her know that it's still not right.

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

How strange! I am not a KU subscriber, and buying it worked fine. Seems like it should have been the same file.

I will finish chapter 2 to be at a good spot, but I will hold off going any further until you are ready and get it sorted out! I cannot believe this is such an issue.

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Joanna Loves Reading wrote: "How strange! I am not a KU subscriber, and buying it worked fine. Seems like it should have been the same file.

I will finish chapter 2 to be at a good spot, but I will hold off going any further ..."

I have never had this problem with KU books before. It makes sense that the files are separate due to how author's are paid for KU reads of their books.

I think I have to keep checking on it until the Kindle folks put it back on the website when the problem is fixed.

Sigh.

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

Hopefully soon!

I finished chapter 2. Individually, I don’t think either the hero or heroine is as compelling a character as the first two novels thus far, but I do like them together.

(view spoiler)[ the fact that she is filthy and in need of a bath cracks me up. Few authors would go there, and Delacroix does it in a way that makes it not off putting. (hide spoiler)]

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

Just checking in. Have you heard an update on this?

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Joanna,

When I discovered the problem, I contacted Deborah A Cooke (author real name) and she said previously a reader let her know and problem is fixed. She told me to return the book and redownload.

Well, that same day I followed her advice and still the book is Gaston and Ysmaine book 1. Then I called amazon and stayed on the phone for a long long time. I think I told you about that.

In the meantime, I have downloaded/returned/redownloaded numerous times, including today.

I just sent Ms Cooke another message via her website.

Sigh

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

:-(

Maybe we can get a movement going to have others test it out, and send in complaints.

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

I feel bad about bugging Ms Cooke again, but I mentioned in the message that I wanted to hurry up and read the whole series before she removes them from KU.

I’ll try to obtain a good link to KU $.99 special. I turned on my SH!tty pc today (off from work as I work this weekend) and tried to find the offer/link myself. No luck. I’ll ask the originator of the post if she can find the link again.

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

Ok, thanks. No worries if you can't. KU is not worth it to me at 9.99 a month, but I'd do that promotional price for a couple of months.

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

Hi, just checking in to see if you have heard any updates on this. I am probably going to start listening to another Delacroix to fill my Medieval category or find a different one, but I thought I would double check before I did.

I had my own woes with KU, with just getting a subscription. I now have it, but I had to contact Help twice to resolve the issue.

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

I’m sorry you had a hard time with KU!

I think something went awry with my last attempt to contact Deborah A. Cooke as I tried to fill out the contact form in her website via my iPhone.

I’m off work today, but gI’ll try again on my break tomorrow via pc. Also, I just received an “update” for the kindle app. I need to return at least one KU (you can only borrow 10 at a time!) so that I can try to borrow the book and see if this update helps.

By all means, read something else for your medieval book. Hopefully this mess can get a fix soon!

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

I just looked back and found that I had read a medieval already this month, so I am good to go anyways!

I started listening to another Delacroix, but it’s one that has a stronger paranormal element. I decided to call that one quits for now because I have been too many paranormals lately, which have been fun, but I don’t want to overdo it.

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Joanna Loves Reading wrote: "I just looked back and found that I had read a medieval already this month, so I am good to go anyways!

I started listening to another Delacroix, but it’s one that has a stronger paranormal elemen..."

Which medieval did you read?

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

I listened to Highlander Most Wanted, which shows up on the medieval lists. I didn’t think of it as such because it’s more of a highlander to me, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be both.

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Joanna Loves Reading wrote: "I listened to Highlander Most Wanted, which shows up on the medieval lists. I didn’t think of it as such because it’s more of a highlander to me, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be b..."

Sounds good to me! Kill 2 birds and all that...

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

Yes, it would. I am not actually using it for my Highlander, though. I think I used the first in series for that. :-)

Anyways, I am looking forward to this when we can get back to it!

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Joanna,

I have the book! FINALLY!

I hated to pester Ms Cooke, but she contacted ‘Zon and told me to call customer service to ask them to “update” the book.

I mean, I REALLY want to read these books. I’m so glad.

Edit.
I was able to use a medieval title that I read for series challenge for RATA. Now that I have this book, we can wait a bit if you have other stuff to read. This weekend, I’m traveling to my father for a dinner to commemorate his big 8-0 🎂.

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Did you get you freebie of The Crusader's Bride? I got the freebie and paid for the audio ($7.49)that I loved so much when I listened last year.

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

Ok, yes not sure on what your work schedule is, but maybe Monday to get back to it? Or now. I actually am between reads. So I could start back up tonight or after this weekend. Whatever works best for you.

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Joanna Loves Reading wrote: "Ok, yes not sure on what your work schedule is, but maybe Monday to get back to it? Or now. I actually am between reads. So I could start back up tonight or after this weekend. Whatever works best ..."

Monday it is! I’m looking forward to it!

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

Hey Andrea,

Did you get started on this? I think I am going to start back up now.

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Joanna Loves Reading wrote: "Hey Andrea,

Did you get started on this? I think I am going to start back up now."

I didn’t start yet. How far along are you? I’ll begin this evening.

Are you nearly done with the book?

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

No, just two chapters in, so not too far!

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Joanna Loves Reading wrote: "No, just two chapters in, so not too far!"

Great! I was afraid with all this trouble with me getting the book, you had left me in the dust!

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

I am through Chapter 3, might read more. I probably should go back and reread the first two, but I think I am good. Just a little fuzzy.

One thing I thought funny was how dirty Anna was. I appreciated it too, because she would be. This has a bit of a Robin Hood feel, which I think I knew ahead of time. Maybe in the blurb?

Bartholomew is more macho and cheeky than I expected, considering that he was just recently a squire and following commands. I am not complaining. I like his teasing, ornery nature, but I am just surprised. I wonder why nothing is familiar to him.

Lady Marie is going to be trouble.

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

Through Chapter 4

I am curious about Fergus having the sight. I think that is the first time we’ve seen.

Lady Marie is a terror! And Bartholomew is too understanding. There is finally something that he he remembered in the dog.

I do like Anna and Bartholomew together. I find them amusing.

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Just finished ch 3

(view spoiler)[ The baron has just informed Bart and Co. that there is no place for them at the keep. These castles have garrisons, many, many more men that the group with Bartholomew.

I don’t know how they are going to recover Percy and the reliquary. Maybe Lady Marie is the lynchpin to help them to meet their goals. She certainly hates her husband.

I’m enjoying Bart’s teasing of Anna. Ha. I have deliberately (because they are often full of spoiler!) held off reading the blurbs for the other books, but I hope Laila gets a story.
(hide spoiler)]

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

LOL, I will peek at spoilers just to see who the MCs are. I don’t recall on Laila, but I get the feeling that she is destined for Furgus. He thinks he is returning to claim his bride, but I bet that doesn’t work out.

It does seem like they have insurmountable odds inside the keep. I imagine Bartholomew will have to admit his past/birthright to succeed.

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

Chapter 5

This book definitely has a humorous side. Bartholomew is ornery and mischievous and thinks on his toes.

The priest may be lynchpin if not Marie.

Many of the characters feel like an enigma to me at this point. I don’t understand Royce and his relationship with Marie. If he is a tyrant lord, why not a tyrant husband? Maybe it’s all to please Marie?

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

@Joanna/mess #36

One thing I thought funny was how dirty Anna was. I appreciated it too, because she would be. This has a bit of a Robin Hood feel, which I think I knew ahead of time. Maybe in the blurb?

What was funny to me about Anna’s dirt is that everyone (in RL) was filthy in Europe back then. For centuries it was thought bathing was unhealthy! Even QE1 used to douse herself with perfumes rather than bathe so I’m told.
However, Bart and Co. were just returned from the holy land and infidels, though they were, they were more advanced in the Middle East at that time than Europe in many things, and the Saracens (ME term for Muslims and/or Arabs) definitely DID bathe. The infidels were pretty sophisticated at the time. Maybe the Men of Champions of St Euphemia adopted the infidel habit of washing and bathing! But, still, Anna’s reaction about bathing was indeed funny!


Bartholomew is more macho and cheeky than I expected, considering that he was just recently a squire and following commands. I am not complaining. I like his teasing, ornery nature, but I am just surprised. I wonder why nothing is familiar to him.

Bart, certainly knows how to get Anna furious! They. Are fun together! He is very confident and sure of himself in his new status as a knight. I paid very little attention to him in Crusader’s Bride, so here, I’m getting to know him.

Lady Marie is going to be trouble.

You betcha!

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Joanna Loves Reading wrote: "LOL, I will peek at spoilers just to see who the MCs are. I don’t recall on Laila, but I get the feeling that she is destined for Furgus. He thinks he is returning to claim his bride, but I bet tha..."

Me remind you of who Laila is From book 1:
(view spoiler)[
Remember “Laurent” from first book little boy who smelled like horse shit, stayed with the horses? She ran away from Outremer and left as a boy with Gaston’s group bec her family wanted to marry her off to some loathesome old man. She was a very young girl, who was “good with horses.” Also, Ferguson gave her the saddlebag to guard with the reliquary in it to guard and prove he/she is responsible. She slept with the horses and rolled herself in horse shit so everyone else would keep away and 1) not notice Laurent is a girl and 2) steer clear of the saddle bag with the reliquary. She didn’t know what was in the bag, just that she was to guard it to prove he/she is responsible.



You might be in to something about her and Fergus! (hide spoiler)]

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Joanna,

How far are you? Ive finished ch 10. It’s very exciting! I ve been home from work today and read quite a bit!

Now I’m torturing myself to stop reading until I find out where you are. Ooo,it hard to stop!

If you’ve sent updates, I’m behind in looking at my feed and notifications!

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

Oh! Look at you go! I haven’t made it any further or just a few pages.

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Joanna Loves Reading wrote: "Oh! Look at you go! I haven’t made it any further or just a few pages."

Well, I’ll stop.

Keep me posted if you are able to read more!

You have excitement ahead!

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

I am starting back in on thi. Just through 6. Trying to catch up on reading. It’s winter in April this weekend, so it seems like the perfect activity!

It is getting exciting!

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

Andrea (Catsos Person) is a Compulsive eBook Hoarder wrote: "Joanna Loves Reading wrote: "LOL, I will peek at spoilers just to see who the MCs are. I don’t recall on Laila, but I get the feeling that she is destined for Furgus. He thinks he is returning to c..."

Oh, yeah. I remember. I have thought there was something in store for that character from the first.

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Joanna Loves Reading wrote: "I am starting back in on thi. Just through 6. Trying to catch up on reading. It’s winter in April this weekend, so it seems like the perfect activity!

It is getting exciting!"

I’m sorry it’s so cold in your “neck o the woods!”

It’s been in low 80s yesterday and today, but the temp is going to drop again.

Doesn’t the guy on the cover of the book look sinister?

[Joanna Loves Reading, Bluestocking of HR novels]

It was high 70s yesterday, and tonight were supposed to get snow. I would bet this is headed your way, but hopefully you will be spared!

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person]

Joanna Loves Reading wrote: "It was high 70s yesterday, and tonight were supposed to get snow. I would bet this is headed your way, but hopefully you will be spared!"

Very bizarre weather!