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The Truest Heart
Did fate send her a villain with the blackest soul...or a lover with The Truest HeartHer name is her only crime, yet Lady Gillian must take refuge in a humble cottage on the on the stormy Cornish coast, hiding from a king who seeks her death for her father's treason.Now destiny has sent Gillian a cure for her a handsome shipwrecked stranger washed ashore on a perilous tide who requires a kind lady's gentle touch to heal his broken body and tormented spirit.His own name -- Gareth -- is all that he remembers. Yet he knows he has found paradise in the company of an exquisite beauty whose caress is sweet rapture and whose smile warms his soul. But as his memories slowly return, so does the dark task entrusted to him by King John. If he fails, a young boy will surely perish. Yet how can he betray Gillian, whose passionate love has lit a blaze in Gareth's heart that no vengeful king's decree could ever extinguish?
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2001
23 people are currently reading
355 people want to read
About the author
Samantha James
91 books503 followersGrowing up in Joliet, Illinois, Samantha James had many childhood aspirations--being a writer was never one of them. When she was ten, she was certain she was destined to be an astronomer. That soon changed (happened a lot during those pre-teen years!) when she decided archaeology was in her future. Detective work was her next goal, thanks to the Trixie Belden mysteries she was reading, and before long, nursing beckoned (courtesy of the Cherry Ames series). In college, she set her sights on teaching history, then briefly entertained the notion of becoming a flight attendant, only to discover she did not like to fly.
Having been raised in a family of avid readers, she was rarely without a book in hand. Her tastes were rather eclectic. She got hooked on the Doc Savage series and Edgar Rice Burroughs after her older brother finished them, in her teen years, moved on to Agatha Christie, Daphne DuMaurier, and Phyllis A. Whitney.
In the meantime, the right guy came along. They met on a semi-blind date at an office Christmas party. She was told he wanted to go out with her, and he was told she wanted to go out with him. Six months later, the U.S. Army shipped him off to Germany--and she wrote faithfully at least three times a week--she often jokes this was the start of her writing career!
Marriage followed, as well as three daughters. Samantha left the detective work to her husband and turned her attention to raising their girls. When her youngest was six months old, two things happened: 1) she read Moonstruck Madness by Laurie McBain and scrambled to find every historical romance she could lay her hands on; 2) her older brother revealed he was writing and submitting his short stories to big-name magazines. As he put it, "I've been rejected by the best of 'em."
The seed was planted. Rejection was a dreaded word, but Samantha figured, "Well, if he can take it, so can I."
That summer, she wrote not one book, but three--longhand, in a notebook, during naptime. Bedtime. Any time she could. The burning desire to write was a long time in coming--she was nearing thirty by then--but she discovered that once she set pen to paper, she couldn't stop.
Those three manuscripts did get the dreaded rejection letter (they're still languishing somewhere in her attic), but she finally hit pay dirt with her fourth. Samantha's brother promptly proposed collaborating on a fantasy together--alas, still unwritten... Nowadays, she's firmly convinced she's the queen of rejected titles for her books. She's only managed to retain two original titles thus far, but writing is indeed a dream come true...
To date, her books have been published in numerous foreign countries (her daughters' number one choice for show-and-tell were always the foreign editions of Mom's books). Known for her heartfelt, emotionally charged "three-hanky reads", her books have been nominated for numerous awards, and have consistently hit the bestseller lists.
Maybe someday she'll do that fantasy-romance collaboration with her brother. For now, she's having a great time spinning dramatic, passionate tales of old...
Having been raised in a family of avid readers, she was rarely without a book in hand. Her tastes were rather eclectic. She got hooked on the Doc Savage series and Edgar Rice Burroughs after her older brother finished them, in her teen years, moved on to Agatha Christie, Daphne DuMaurier, and Phyllis A. Whitney.
In the meantime, the right guy came along. They met on a semi-blind date at an office Christmas party. She was told he wanted to go out with her, and he was told she wanted to go out with him. Six months later, the U.S. Army shipped him off to Germany--and she wrote faithfully at least three times a week--she often jokes this was the start of her writing career!
Marriage followed, as well as three daughters. Samantha left the detective work to her husband and turned her attention to raising their girls. When her youngest was six months old, two things happened: 1) she read Moonstruck Madness by Laurie McBain and scrambled to find every historical romance she could lay her hands on; 2) her older brother revealed he was writing and submitting his short stories to big-name magazines. As he put it, "I've been rejected by the best of 'em."
The seed was planted. Rejection was a dreaded word, but Samantha figured, "Well, if he can take it, so can I."
That summer, she wrote not one book, but three--longhand, in a notebook, during naptime. Bedtime. Any time she could. The burning desire to write was a long time in coming--she was nearing thirty by then--but she discovered that once she set pen to paper, she couldn't stop.
Those three manuscripts did get the dreaded rejection letter (they're still languishing somewhere in her attic), but she finally hit pay dirt with her fourth. Samantha's brother promptly proposed collaborating on a fantasy together--alas, still unwritten... Nowadays, she's firmly convinced she's the queen of rejected titles for her books. She's only managed to retain two original titles thus far, but writing is indeed a dream come true...
To date, her books have been published in numerous foreign countries (her daughters' number one choice for show-and-tell were always the foreign editions of Mom's books). Known for her heartfelt, emotionally charged "three-hanky reads", her books have been nominated for numerous awards, and have consistently hit the bestseller lists.
Maybe someday she'll do that fantasy-romance collaboration with her brother. For now, she's having a great time spinning dramatic, passionate tales of old...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
August 20, 2010
Despite how much I disliked Gillian for most of the book I still have to give this 4 stars. Despite her character flaws this was a really enjoyable book. But, goodness, I wanted to slap her so many times! Gillian was great in the beginning of the book. I really liked her character. She was sweet and generous and took such care of Gareth when he was ill. Then when the truth was revealed about Gareth being sent to kill her she became this big beeatch! It just got ridiculous the way she kept fighting against Gareth. Yes, he was sent to kill her but the King was holding his son hostage. It's not like he had a choice. Even when Gareth married her she still feared he meant to kill her. Uh, why marry you when killing you would work just as well unless, twit! Oh but, wait! He actually is a good, decent man who cares for her. It drove me crazy!
Now, having said that, once she finally, finally realized that Gareth was a good man she became a much nicer person. Of course, the book was almost over then. However, this was a really good story. Gareth was an awesome hero! Personally, he deserved someone better than the Gillian he got after marrying her. He was a great hero and he was not cruel and he loved Gillian (despite her bitchiness) and he loved his son. Oh, I just loved the scenes with his little son Robbie. The scenes between father and son were really sweet. Even Robbie and Gillian were wonderful together. She was very, very good to Robbie and he was just so cute.
If the reader can get past the annoying heroine this really is a good read. I am a fan of Samantha James now. Despite an annoying heroine she kept me wanting to read and know the ending. I just hope that not all of her heroines are this stubborn. :-)
Now, having said that, once she finally, finally realized that Gareth was a good man she became a much nicer person. Of course, the book was almost over then. However, this was a really good story. Gareth was an awesome hero! Personally, he deserved someone better than the Gillian he got after marrying her. He was a great hero and he was not cruel and he loved Gillian (despite her bitchiness) and he loved his son. Oh, I just loved the scenes with his little son Robbie. The scenes between father and son were really sweet. Even Robbie and Gillian were wonderful together. She was very, very good to Robbie and he was just so cute.
If the reader can get past the annoying heroine this really is a good read. I am a fan of Samantha James now. Despite an annoying heroine she kept me wanting to read and know the ending. I just hope that not all of her heroines are this stubborn. :-)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2013
Lady Gillian after being sent away by her father into hiding, when King John wants both her and her brothers head. So she goes into hiding in Cornwall. Knowing that no one except the man that shields and protects her knows of her identity. When a mysterious injured man shows up on the beach washed on the shore after a shipwreck, Gillian risks everything to tend him. When he awakens however, she is startled surprised to find out that he remembers nothing but his name Gareth. The more Gillian tends Gareth, the more she starts falling for this handsome man who takes her breath away. She also learns to trust with her heart the more she spends time in his presence, and a startling desire rises between the two of them that could light the fires. When Gareth's memory slowly returns, he starts to realize truths about his past, that could ruin everything that he has built with Gillian, who has stolen his heart. Will Gareth be able to protect both Gillian, his love and his son who is the hands of King John? And will the love he shares with Gillian be enough?
This was a truly romantic love story that took my breath away as I was reading it. I vow that Samantha James is the sort of author that steals into her readers hearts. This is the kind of story, that will have you on the edge of your seats and wondering what the outcome is. I love reading historical romances, especially in this time period, where you never know what the outcome may be, but you know you will be feeling satisfied at the end. We have Gillian whose mourns the loss of her father, who had a hand in a assasination attempt on King John, and then being split apart from a loving brother, and to be isolated, but then finds solace in Gareth's arms and finds the greatest pleasure and love she has ever known. Gareth gets frustrated after losing his memory, not knowing of his past or family or where he has come from. But when he meets the beauiful Gillian who has helped tend to him when he was injured, he finds himself falling in love with the captivating yet innocent young woman whom has pain in her eyes. Though they both will face struggles that may seem unsurmountable, they will also discover a tender yet powerful love.
This was a truly romantic love story that took my breath away as I was reading it. I vow that Samantha James is the sort of author that steals into her readers hearts. This is the kind of story, that will have you on the edge of your seats and wondering what the outcome is. I love reading historical romances, especially in this time period, where you never know what the outcome may be, but you know you will be feeling satisfied at the end. We have Gillian whose mourns the loss of her father, who had a hand in a assasination attempt on King John, and then being split apart from a loving brother, and to be isolated, but then finds solace in Gareth's arms and finds the greatest pleasure and love she has ever known. Gareth gets frustrated after losing his memory, not knowing of his past or family or where he has come from. But when he meets the beauiful Gillian who has helped tend to him when he was injured, he finds himself falling in love with the captivating yet innocent young woman whom has pain in her eyes. Though they both will face struggles that may seem unsurmountable, they will also discover a tender yet powerful love.
February 13, 2025
they didn't actually like or love each other 😂
February 14, 2012
I liked this book, but I thought the middle of the book was lacking in excitment. Some people may be turned on by the idea that he was all dark and brooding and she was always screeching at him...but not me. I like a comanding, mysterious, take charge kind of hero...but Gareth was annoying, not sexy, towards the middle of the book and her reaction to him was maddening.
The beginning was very intriguing, that's what go me sucked in enough to buy the book after downloading a little sample from iBooks. I loved the concept of the two of them having hidden identies and pasts that conflicted so...beautifully ;)
The way the two got married was very fun, and fast paced. I enjoyed that as well. However, I didn't understand why it took Gillian so long to accept him again, after he told her the truth about why he'd been on that ship. I also didn't understand why he was being so cold, callous, and cruel to her all of a sudden when obviously she was just feeling lost and broken and scared. She needed him, but yet he was manipulative and rude...which seemed out of character for him especially since the readers had just gotten to know him as a sweet, sexy hero when they were at the beach cottage.
The end made up for it, and saved the novel. When Gareth got back from his trip doing King John's "bidding", they really connected and the couple was able to put aside the traits of theirs that were most annoying to me, and become in love.
I liked having Gareth's son around, Robbie. Usually I don't like romance novels where one of the main characters had a former life with a former great love which they had childern with...here however, it was cute. Robbie fell for Gillian quickly and accepted her as his mother figure.
1 last compliant: I am a King John fan. I love him dearly, and those who oppose his rule obviously haven't read Here Be Dragons by Sharon Kay Penman in which she spends a whole novel letting her readers get to know the awesome, sexiness which is John. I disliked the referenced to his evilness.
The beginning was very intriguing, that's what go me sucked in enough to buy the book after downloading a little sample from iBooks. I loved the concept of the two of them having hidden identies and pasts that conflicted so...beautifully ;)
The way the two got married was very fun, and fast paced. I enjoyed that as well. However, I didn't understand why it took Gillian so long to accept him again, after he told her the truth about why he'd been on that ship. I also didn't understand why he was being so cold, callous, and cruel to her all of a sudden when obviously she was just feeling lost and broken and scared. She needed him, but yet he was manipulative and rude...which seemed out of character for him especially since the readers had just gotten to know him as a sweet, sexy hero when they were at the beach cottage.
The end made up for it, and saved the novel. When Gareth got back from his trip doing King John's "bidding", they really connected and the couple was able to put aside the traits of theirs that were most annoying to me, and become in love.
I liked having Gareth's son around, Robbie. Usually I don't like romance novels where one of the main characters had a former life with a former great love which they had childern with...here however, it was cute. Robbie fell for Gillian quickly and accepted her as his mother figure.
1 last compliant: I am a King John fan. I love him dearly, and those who oppose his rule obviously haven't read Here Be Dragons by Sharon Kay Penman in which she spends a whole novel letting her readers get to know the awesome, sexiness which is John. I disliked the referenced to his evilness.
December 30, 2010
A lovely Medieval romance about a woman whose father makes an attempt on the King's life and her flight for freedom there-after.
Gillian, the daughter of Ellis of Westerbrook, and her brother Clifton, are being hunted down after their father committed suicide to save the identity of the second assailant in their attack on the King and to take away the King's satisfaction in doing the deed himself. The King now wants his vengeance.
King John send one of his noblemen,Gareth, the lord of Sommerfield, to track down the offspring and dispose of them. He tracks down the daughter, Gillian, off the coast of Cornwall, but his ship is destroyed in a storm and he is washed ashore terribly injured and without his memory.
Gillian finds Gareth and nurses him back to health as he slowly regains his memory. Gareth grows fond of Gillian while under her care and repays the favor by taking her from the small, ramshackle cottage where she was lying low, to the grandeur of his castle to better protect her.
Shortly after their arrival to Sommerfield, Gareth remembers that his son is in the King's 'care' until he succeeds in his task of taking out the Westerbrook offspring. HE is the one who poses the greatest risk to Gillian, but he can not allow anything to happen to her or his son. Drastic measures must be taken & the treat of discovery is barley kept at bay as Gillian and Gareth discover true love.
This book was very fast paced in the beginning but slowed a bit towards the middle, and by the time you got to the climax at the end, it felt rushed. But overall, I enjoyed this book, and chapter by chapter I feel a little bit more in love with the hero and heroine! Gillian was kind and good natured while being able to hold her own against the macho man. And Gareth was honorable,head-strong and crazy about the heroine, which is exactly what we want in our heros.
Gillian, the daughter of Ellis of Westerbrook, and her brother Clifton, are being hunted down after their father committed suicide to save the identity of the second assailant in their attack on the King and to take away the King's satisfaction in doing the deed himself. The King now wants his vengeance.
King John send one of his noblemen,Gareth, the lord of Sommerfield, to track down the offspring and dispose of them. He tracks down the daughter, Gillian, off the coast of Cornwall, but his ship is destroyed in a storm and he is washed ashore terribly injured and without his memory.
Gillian finds Gareth and nurses him back to health as he slowly regains his memory. Gareth grows fond of Gillian while under her care and repays the favor by taking her from the small, ramshackle cottage where she was lying low, to the grandeur of his castle to better protect her.
Shortly after their arrival to Sommerfield, Gareth remembers that his son is in the King's 'care' until he succeeds in his task of taking out the Westerbrook offspring. HE is the one who poses the greatest risk to Gillian, but he can not allow anything to happen to her or his son. Drastic measures must be taken & the treat of discovery is barley kept at bay as Gillian and Gareth discover true love.
This book was very fast paced in the beginning but slowed a bit towards the middle, and by the time you got to the climax at the end, it felt rushed. But overall, I enjoyed this book, and chapter by chapter I feel a little bit more in love with the hero and heroine! Gillian was kind and good natured while being able to hold her own against the macho man. And Gareth was honorable,head-strong and crazy about the heroine, which is exactly what we want in our heros.
May 21, 2012
Ah, Ms. James hit me right in my sweet spot with this one. Enough history to draw me in, but not so much that I start to zone out. I loved the element of the forced marriage, something she also did in My Lord Conqueror. I didn't like this as much as My Lord Conqueror because the hero didn't have quite as much "edge" but again, the story was simple, romantic, and kept me turning pages.
And man oh man, the florid language. I want to hate it but I don't...I LOVE IT. There should be a drinking game for every time the author describes his shaft, lance, spear, etc as being iron, steel, jutting, thrusting, and other such yummy modifiers. It is completely over the top but it reminds me of the very first romances I read back in the early 90's. Ms. James is totally on my wavelength as far as getting high on the trappings of caveman masculinity. LOVE IT!! I think maybe since I used to love Trixie Belden too we developed the same tastes or something as adult women. Who knows?
Overall I'd say the modern jaded romance reader might not enjoy this, but as guilty and silly retro romantic fun this is top notch stuff. If you want a thrusting, throbbing lance pouring heat into your pulsing honeyed chamber then this is the book for you!!
And man oh man, the florid language. I want to hate it but I don't...I LOVE IT. There should be a drinking game for every time the author describes his shaft, lance, spear, etc as being iron, steel, jutting, thrusting, and other such yummy modifiers. It is completely over the top but it reminds me of the very first romances I read back in the early 90's. Ms. James is totally on my wavelength as far as getting high on the trappings of caveman masculinity. LOVE IT!! I think maybe since I used to love Trixie Belden too we developed the same tastes or something as adult women. Who knows?
Overall I'd say the modern jaded romance reader might not enjoy this, but as guilty and silly retro romantic fun this is top notch stuff. If you want a thrusting, throbbing lance pouring heat into your pulsing honeyed chamber then this is the book for you!!
April 20, 2008
I really liked this one! It was so fantastical and romantic. We have the lady Gillian, held hidden away in a cottage in Cornwall and the dashing young knight, Gareth, who happens to wash away onto the shore following a shipwreck and a storm. The only survivor, she nurses him back to health (in quite an erotic way!), he suffers from amnesia, they wind up passionately involved, etc. etc. Of course there is this constant thread of tension throughout the story. But I loved the speed of the whole thing. It was an enjoyable Sunday afternoon read.
December 24, 2014
I had to force myself to finish this book. I disliked Gillian throughout most of it. She was a whiner, irrational and childish. The only reason I gave this book two stars is because I liked Gareth's character. It's hard to believe he would fall in love with Gillian.
March 26, 2009
This should be called the Truest Wallbanger!
July 6, 2023
"The Truest Heart" by Samantha James is a captivating novel that immerses readers in a world of intense romance, compelling characters, and heartfelt emotions. Prepare to be swept away by a love story that will leave you breathless.
At the heart of the book are the hero and heroine, whose connection is electric from the very beginning. The writer crafts their relationship, infusing it with revenge, passion, depth, and undeniable chemistry. The intense romance that develops between them leaps off the pages!
The hero is a captivating character, with his brooding demeanor and a troubled past that haunts him. He is the embodiment of strength and vulnerability, and watching him navigate the complexities of love is both heartbreaking and inspiring.
The heroine, on the other hand, is a spirited and independent woman, complementing the hero's intensity with her own resilience and determination. She is a refreshing counterpart, challenging him and offering him solace in equal measure. The dynamic between them is a delightful dance of passion and tenderness.
The story is rich with emotional depth, as the hero and heroine navigate obstacles and confront their pasts. It's a journey of self-discovery, forgiveness, and the power of love to heal even the deepest wounds.
If you're a fan of intense, emotionally charged romances, "The Truest Heart" is a book that should not be missed! Samantha James's beautiful prose, memorable characters, and poignant storytelling combine to create a reading experience that will stay with you long after the final page is turned.
At the heart of the book are the hero and heroine, whose connection is electric from the very beginning. The writer crafts their relationship, infusing it with revenge, passion, depth, and undeniable chemistry. The intense romance that develops between them leaps off the pages!
The hero is a captivating character, with his brooding demeanor and a troubled past that haunts him. He is the embodiment of strength and vulnerability, and watching him navigate the complexities of love is both heartbreaking and inspiring.
The heroine, on the other hand, is a spirited and independent woman, complementing the hero's intensity with her own resilience and determination. She is a refreshing counterpart, challenging him and offering him solace in equal measure. The dynamic between them is a delightful dance of passion and tenderness.
The story is rich with emotional depth, as the hero and heroine navigate obstacles and confront their pasts. It's a journey of self-discovery, forgiveness, and the power of love to heal even the deepest wounds.
If you're a fan of intense, emotionally charged romances, "The Truest Heart" is a book that should not be missed! Samantha James's beautiful prose, memorable characters, and poignant storytelling combine to create a reading experience that will stay with you long after the final page is turned.
August 19, 2023
Her father died as a traitor to the crown when he tried to kill the king and failed. To protect the man who was with him he tried to kill the king he killed himself and had his children go into hiding. Gillian was running for her life away from a king who everyone e hated and was very cruel and wanted to kill her since he couldn’t kill her father. Gareth was sent to kill her but got shipwrecked in a storm and washed up on her shore where she helped him get better. He was the only survivor and had amnesia. Unbeknownst to Jim he was living with the woman he was supposed to kill. DNF 30%. Gilliam was silly, the story was slow and boring, just didn’t care to finish it.
February 10, 2019
The story started beautifully and engaging.... The heroine helped him when no one was there to offer the help him.....and their slow attraction was also good..hero's amnesia then remembering things all were OK....but then I felt angry at the hero treats the h when they arrive at his place....come on dude!!!.. She saves your life!!.....and he ends up marrying her to save her,but his intentions are not that noble :))
In the past 3yr, I'm once again marking "didn't like hero"
In the past 3yr, I'm once again marking "didn't like hero"
May 25, 2021
Love, love, love! When fugitive Lady Gillian is in hiding a handsome stranger washes up ship wrecked and sick on her shore. She nurses him back to health only to discover he is the man sent to get rid of her for her father’s treason.
Gareth has no memory of what he promised the King, only that he feels protective of Gillian. Fate dictates he must marry her to save her. This was so sweet and the main characters had a lovely HEA. This is on my keeper shelf for sure.
Gareth has no memory of what he promised the King, only that he feels protective of Gillian. Fate dictates he must marry her to save her. This was so sweet and the main characters had a lovely HEA. This is on my keeper shelf for sure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2021
This was great Gilluan was annoying at first. Gave it three stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 27, 2022
I read to page 113 but never finished so I decided to put in the bag that goes to the book store. Not my cup of tea.
July 31, 2022
Samantha James’ books are like crack to me
March 5, 2023
Loved the beginning and end.
The middle lacked a bit. There was too much drama going on with the former wife which I did not enjoy.
The middle lacked a bit. There was too much drama going on with the former wife which I did not enjoy.
Want to read
March 20, 2025Fall pile
October 7, 2025
Felt awful for the heroine the whole time. I get that women didn’t have much in the way of options back then, but man was this rough.
July 5, 2024
This one was a little boring since nothing really happens 😢
March 2, 2017
este libro empieza genial, con la venganza del principe Juan y el hallazgo de Garreth en la playa
y segun va transcurriendo, me encanto como poco a poco se ve que se van enamorando.... hasta que vuelven al castillo de él
Entonces Gillian se transforma en una estupida.. en una persona que trata mal e insulta a Garreth... una celosa empedernida y enfermiza y me he puesto mala al leer.
y para rematar al final del libro Gillian suelta que ella sabia desde el principio que Garreth es un corazon puro... "pero so idiota, si toda la novela ha sido del mismo modo... si la obtusa has sido tu"
al final me ha dejado un sabor amargo
mi nota un 5, y porque el prota me ha caido muy bien
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2011
~May have slight spoilers.
Lady Gillian is in hiding from the king--but not for her own deed but that of her father. He sent her and her brother away to different locations deep in the night knowing the king may try to use them or worse yet kill them for his treason.
Gareth, his name, is the only thing he knows of himself when he awakes in Lady Gillian cottage. A dreadful storm cast his ship to the rocks where he was the only one to survive--barely if not for Lady Gillian nursing him back to health. But still as his body mends his mind mends slower but the lost memories soon begin to come forth and with them the horrid realization of why he was on the ship to begin with.
For all that I love Samantha James--she is truly an amazing author--there was just something about this novel that kept me from really loving it.
I do not know what though, I have nothing against the Hero nor Heroine.
Lady Gillian was very vulnerable I thought but at the same time she had a strong will that kept her going.
Gareth was very strong as well--commanding. But he was very honorable man, which Gillian seems to know from the very beginning, even though she has her doubts but then who wouldn't be weary of a strange man swept ashore?
I do believe one thing I did not like about this novel was though we get good plot between Gillian and Gareth the secondary stuff--like with king John and the barons was kind of lack.
I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves Samantha James.
Lady Gillian is in hiding from the king--but not for her own deed but that of her father. He sent her and her brother away to different locations deep in the night knowing the king may try to use them or worse yet kill them for his treason.
Gareth, his name, is the only thing he knows of himself when he awakes in Lady Gillian cottage. A dreadful storm cast his ship to the rocks where he was the only one to survive--barely if not for Lady Gillian nursing him back to health. But still as his body mends his mind mends slower but the lost memories soon begin to come forth and with them the horrid realization of why he was on the ship to begin with.
For all that I love Samantha James--she is truly an amazing author--there was just something about this novel that kept me from really loving it.
I do not know what though, I have nothing against the Hero nor Heroine.
Lady Gillian was very vulnerable I thought but at the same time she had a strong will that kept her going.
Gareth was very strong as well--commanding. But he was very honorable man, which Gillian seems to know from the very beginning, even though she has her doubts but then who wouldn't be weary of a strange man swept ashore?
I do believe one thing I did not like about this novel was though we get good plot between Gillian and Gareth the secondary stuff--like with king John and the barons was kind of lack.
I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves Samantha James.
September 3, 2016
Robbie was still waiting for an answer. “How will the babe get out?” he said again.
Gillian bit her lip. “Robbie…” “Does Papa know?” Gillian glanced at Lynette, whose eyes were sparkling. Lynette’s brows arose, as if she, too, awaited an answer. “Aye,” she said weakly. Robbie gazed at her calmly. “Perhaps he will tell me when he returns.” All at once his childish lips puckered thoughtfully. “But wait. How did the babe get in your belly?” Gillian was utterly mortified. She was certain her face was crimson, and she heartily wished she’d never broached the subject! “Did he crawl?” Gillian longed to sink through the floor. “Robbie, I-I cannot say. But I think you are right. ’Tis a good question between father and son.” “You seem much perplexed.” Robbie crossed his arms over his small chest and nodded. “Perhaps you should ask Papa, too.” “Perhaps I should,” she said faintly. “Perhaps he will even show you.”
Gillian didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. Indeed, she thought vaguely, he already had… “He showed me how to ride my pony, you know,” Robbie boasted. She gulped. “Your father is…a man of great knowledge and…and many abilities.” Lynette’s shoulders were still shaking with barely restrained mirth as she exited the room. One thing was certain, Gillian decided. She would most assuredly not linger should Robbie pose such questions of Gareth in her presence.
Gillian bit her lip. “Robbie…” “Does Papa know?” Gillian glanced at Lynette, whose eyes were sparkling. Lynette’s brows arose, as if she, too, awaited an answer. “Aye,” she said weakly. Robbie gazed at her calmly. “Perhaps he will tell me when he returns.” All at once his childish lips puckered thoughtfully. “But wait. How did the babe get in your belly?” Gillian was utterly mortified. She was certain her face was crimson, and she heartily wished she’d never broached the subject! “Did he crawl?” Gillian longed to sink through the floor. “Robbie, I-I cannot say. But I think you are right. ’Tis a good question between father and son.” “You seem much perplexed.” Robbie crossed his arms over his small chest and nodded. “Perhaps you should ask Papa, too.” “Perhaps I should,” she said faintly. “Perhaps he will even show you.”
Gillian didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. Indeed, she thought vaguely, he already had… “He showed me how to ride my pony, you know,” Robbie boasted. She gulped. “Your father is…a man of great knowledge and…and many abilities.” Lynette’s shoulders were still shaking with barely restrained mirth as she exited the room. One thing was certain, Gillian decided. She would most assuredly not linger should Robbie pose such questions of Gareth in her presence.
August 10, 2015
In fury over being thwarted by the suicide of a would-be assassin before disclosing his accomplice, King John orders the burning of his castle and the death of his son and daughter. To do this heinous deed he picks a knight who has not taken sides in the political conflict and holds his son hostage until the deed is done. Gillian and Clifton were secreted out of their home when their father was captured and taken to separate locations, not knowing where the other is, for safety sake. When a ship wrecks off the coast of Cornwall with only one barely alive survivor, Gillian and Brother Baldrick nurse him back to health not knowing that he is Gareth, her would-be executioner. As he revives he remembers his name only and snatches of his past. As he improves, more and more of his memory returns and eventually his task. By then he cannot fulfill it and he must figure out a way to avoid the King's wrath and save Gillian and get his son free. This was an interesting set up and likable main characters, lots of action and intrigue. I did have fault with Gillian's sudden refusal to go along with Gareth's plan and his reaction to that. It seemed contrived to make conflict between them. Otherwise satisfying romance.
August 22, 2015
Gillian is a woman on the run. Gareth is the man sent to kill her. Only. He forgets. He's in a shipwreck. Loses his memory. And just HAPPENS to be found by Gillian who nurses him to health. This part? Cute and cuddly.
THEN, Gareth remembers his purpose. He takes Gillian to his castle and forces her into marriage in order to protect her. Now, Gillian doesn't take too kindly to being told that Gareth was sent to kill her. Makes it kind of hard to trust him. Yet he demands it. At every turn. He forces her into so many situations that, frankly, feel really uncomfortable. There are plenty of times where you just want to scream at Gareth that no means no. And Gillian turns into a brat. I mean, like a really bratty, spoiled, stubborn brat. Then there's the typical trope of miscommunication. I mean, I suppose that adds to the suspense, but I would prefer a smarter book in which two adults who know how to communicate find love. But maybe that's just me.
THEN, Gareth remembers his purpose. He takes Gillian to his castle and forces her into marriage in order to protect her. Now, Gillian doesn't take too kindly to being told that Gareth was sent to kill her. Makes it kind of hard to trust him. Yet he demands it. At every turn. He forces her into so many situations that, frankly, feel really uncomfortable. There are plenty of times where you just want to scream at Gareth that no means no. And Gillian turns into a brat. I mean, like a really bratty, spoiled, stubborn brat. Then there's the typical trope of miscommunication. I mean, I suppose that adds to the suspense, but I would prefer a smarter book in which two adults who know how to communicate find love. But maybe that's just me.
August 12, 2017
Medieval romance with sex. Copyright 2001. This is a reread, but it's been probably 2001 since I last read it. I've been trying to clean out my burgeoning library!
I somewhat remember the plot of this one. I actually didn't think it was too bad for the first 10 chapters. I do not like the amnesia trope, but am willing to let that slide. Sure, Gillian isn't the sharpest knife in the drawer, but I was willing to give her a break.
Then.... chapter 11. Now Gillian displays that she's indeed TSTL. Resistant to marrying Gareth, even though NOT doing it puts her life in danger, she acts like a fool. At 18, she's a little long in the tooth for marriage anyway. She should have been a little more savvy about the ways of the world. Instead she acts like a contemporary teenager -emotional & petulant.
So, unable to give this more than 2 stars. I STILL can't figure out what I liked about this author. I have several more of her books. Hmmmm.........
I somewhat remember the plot of this one. I actually didn't think it was too bad for the first 10 chapters. I do not like the amnesia trope, but am willing to let that slide. Sure, Gillian isn't the sharpest knife in the drawer, but I was willing to give her a break.
Then.... chapter 11. Now Gillian displays that she's indeed TSTL. Resistant to marrying Gareth, even though NOT doing it puts her life in danger, she acts like a fool. At 18, she's a little long in the tooth for marriage anyway. She should have been a little more savvy about the ways of the world. Instead she acts like a contemporary teenager -emotional & petulant.
So, unable to give this more than 2 stars. I STILL can't figure out what I liked about this author. I have several more of her books. Hmmmm.........
November 27, 2019
Lady Gillian of Westerbrook is in hiding with a lay brother in Cornwall after her father tried to kill King John, failed, was captured and committed suicide rather than reveal his accomplice. Gillian and her brother Clifton escape in different directions. When a man is shipwrecked on her shore during a storm, she nurses him back to health, but he can only remember his name - Gareth. As his memories slowly return, he realizes he's nobility and wants to return to his castle and take Gillian with him. What he doesn't remember until after his return to his castle is that he's the person John sent to find and kill Gillian. To avoid this problem, he marries her and tells John she's pregnant from when he couldn't remember. They truly do love each other, but there's been a lot of mistrust on both parts. All ends well when John dies, Gillian and Gareth finally proclaim their love, their daughter is born and her brother returns. Interesting.
September 28, 2015
I read this within two days, it was a quick read and started great. I love a good midieval romance and I really enjoyed the beginning of this book. once they left to go back to Gareth 's home the story fell and Gillian became increasingly frustrating to listen to with her bi polar emotions. She kept saying really negative things about Gareth pretty much right until the end when she realizes she loves him (this is after months of back and forth "he's evil" "I hate him" "he's the enemy " "I shouldn't be trusting him" blah blah blah ) it got really tiring and annoying but overall was decent enough to finish. if you're looking for a romance where they're in love the whole time this isn't your book.
May 29, 2010
I had the good intention of reading this, but then my mood changed and I just skimmed through it. I did liked the interaction that the heroine had with the hero's son, and it was nice to read how the hero interacted with the heroine. Otherwise, I just skimmed through it and returned it back.
December 31, 2013
The Truest Heart was a good, if not great book. I did enjoy most of it, didn't always like Gillian.
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