I loved this, and the author packed a ton into the story of Christian and William. The medieval time period seemed very true to form, and I’m still glad that these men had a good life together as their love was gorgeous (there actually is an end to their HEA but at least they were together). I tend to enjoy most medieval romances, although in general the period-typical violence can be difficult for me. ( )

No rating because I'm not going to read this. This note is for myself. I don't like sad endings to books, no matter how it's written or how the story is woven. Hard pass for me.

I am not a huge fan of historical stories, but I LOVED this one! The author drew me in real quick and for a short story, really packed a lot of feeling and story into it. These guys were able to make their lives together happen, which is so refreshing to see in a historical fic. The epilogue is still making me smile. Great read! ( )

2021-04-07
I thoroughly enjoyed the rich, gruff voice of this narrator. It seemed to suit the tale.

2013-06-14
Brilliant! Wonderful characters and an interesting storyline beautifully written! ( )

This was a great story. I’ve read another of Eli Easton’s books and loved it (Puzzle Me) so I was pretty sure that I was going to enjoy this one. The story is centered on Christian, the youngest in a family that really doesn’t care much about him. Christian seems to have spent his entire young life trying to “better” and “more”. He’s a dead-eye with his bow, he can hunt and a life spent hiding his sexual orientation has made him protective and cunning.

Sir William is a fighter through and through. He’s fiercely loyal and dedicated which is how he finds his way to the King’s palace. He wants to aid his sister who has been handed off into a physically abusive marriage. The two men have different reactions to one another at first. Christian is instantly drawn to William. He sees a strong man, someone who is kind and principles and definitely a man he finds physically attractive. Christian has never really accepted that it is wrong to love another man, even though he recognizes how dangerous it would be to be open about his orientation. Christian’s brother’s… in particular Malcolm … have mocked and bullied him as he grew up.

I think that the author is eluding to William being more sexually fluid even though he lives in a time when he wouldn’t’ have had the slightest notion of what that really meant. In contrast to Christian’s youth, William’s was more gentle and nurturing. When he expressed an interest in boys… his brother told him it was normal… albeit something that he should get out of his system as a youth.

Even though the two men grew up very differently, Easton leaves no doubt that they are drawn to each other. As the two characters begin their journey to attempt to save William’s sister, the walls between them begin to crumble. They become comfortable traveling companions, friends and then ultimately… lovers. The progression of the relationship is well-paced and believable given the backgrounds of each man. I thought the author did a great job of touching on the varied events and conversations that resulted in the two men becoming emotionally attached to one another.

The novel is not without its challenging scenes. Christian is subjected to some horrifying abuse from his brother but Easton handled the scenes. Much of the abuse that goes on in the novel is discussed past tense being too detailed. I thought that Easton handled some uncomfortable situations for her characters with finesse and sensitivity.

The end of the novel left me a bit teary which caught me by surprise. The characters were engaging and well-rounded and I was drawn in completely by the story. 4-stars from me! ( )