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More cherished than gold are the Jewels of Kinfairlie, and only the worthiest may fight for their love...The Laird of Kinfairlie has unmarried sisters, each a gem in her own right. And he has no choice but to see them all wed in haste.

Lady Madeline’s heart is not for sale...especially not to a notorious outlaw like Rhys FitzHenry. Yet Madeline’s hand has been sold, to none other than this battle-weary warrior with a price on his head. A more dutiful maiden might cede to the Laird’s command and meekly accept her fate, but Madeline has never been obedient. She decides to run away, though she never dreams that Rhys will pursue her. She does not expect this taciturn man to woo her with fanciful stories, much less that each of his enthralling tales will reveal a scar upon his shielded soul. She never imagines that a man like Rhys could imperil her own heart while revealing so little of his own feelings. When Rhys’s past threatens his future, Madeline takes a leap of faith. She dares to believe him innocent
— and risks her own life to pursue a passion more priceless than the rarest gem.

This version includes excerpts from THE ROSE RED BRIDE and KISS OF FIRE.

294 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2005

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About the author

Claire Delacroix

123 books518 followers
New York Times bestselling author Claire Delacroix sold her first book in 1992, an historical romance called ROMANCE OF THE ROSE. Since then, she has published over sixty romance novels and novellas, and has also been published under the names Claire Cross and Deborah Cooke. She has an honours degree in history, with a focus on medieval studies. She is an avid reader of medieval vernacular literature, fairy tales and fantasy novels.

For books written under the pseudonym, Claire Cross, see:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...

For books written under Claire's own name, Deborah Cooke, please see:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...

In October and November 2009, she was the writer in residence for the Toronto Public Library, the first time that the library has hosted a residency focused on the romance genre.

Visit her two websites here:
http://www.delacroix.net
http://www.deborahcooke.com

Like her Facebook Fan Pages here:
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5 stars
1,286 (35%)
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3 stars
852 (23%)
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227 (6%)
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110 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 383 reviews
Profile Image for Beatriz.
986 reviews866 followers
April 23, 2018
Un romance histórico que hace pasar un muy buen rato: es entretenido, la ambientación de época es impecable (con varias referencias a sucesos históricos) y sus personajes son buenísimos, tanto los principales como los secundarios, tanto los buenos como los malos; ninguno me quedó al debe. Pero confieso que me quedo con Madeline, hasta el momento la mejor prota femenina del año. También tiene un personaje de corte fantástico y, aunque se disfrutan sus breves apariciones, creo que está demás ya que su incidencia en el argumento es más bien irrelevante.

De todas maneras, es una novela que recomiendo a quienes gustan del género; se lee rápido y es entretenidísima.
Profile Image for Seon Ji (Dawn).
1,051 reviews276 followers
March 23, 2021
A unlikeable hero and an ignorant heroine. Lots of useless fluff and long winded history not necessary for the plot.

The hero had no redeeming qualities IMO. I was hoping his character would be killed off throughout the entire book.

Reasons for my disliking the hero:

Yet the heroine forgave him at every turn.

I could not see why either of them loved each other.

Lastly the epilogue was disappointing

This is up there in one of my all time worst reads ever. I skimmed almost the entire book.
Profile Image for Dorine.
632 reviews35 followers
November 29, 2017
Currently an eBook freebie (not sure how long it's free - hurry!), so I thought I'd revisit the review I wrote for it in 2004 at Romance Junkies. Fun historical series -- I'll add the reviews for the other two I've read soon.

Scotland - April 1421

Madeline refuses to marry, much to her brother's frustration. As new Laird of Kinfairlie, Alexander must see that his sisters are wed, for he cannot afford their keep. Madeline swears she is still mourning the death of her fiance and will wed no other man. Alexander dares to defy Madeline in a most outrageous way - by auctioning his sister off to the highest bidder for her hand in marriage. Each bidder is carefully selected from those Alexander feels are worthy of Madeline.

One man is invited that Alexander is unaware of and a bidding war ensues, until Rhys FitzHenry, known traitor to the King, closes the deal as the highest bidder. This dark stranger is not someone Alexander wishes as Madeline's spouse, but the much-needed wealth earned from the deal helps him overcome his doubts.

Rhys is in need of a wife, so that he may have sons to inherit his land. However, no one suspects Rhys' true reason for buying the hand of the Jewel of Kinfairlie.

Fearing the dark stranger and not one to follow where she is led, Madeline runs away, never suspecting the danger she will encounter. Will Rhys find her in time before Madeline has to face every woman's greatest fear? Will he convince her to wed him without telling her the truth? Can they outrun the King's men who follow close behind?

THE BEAUTY BRIDE is a most entertaining read. The ominous Rhys FitzHenry has a soft side - telling tales to calm Madeline's fears and he captured my heart. Ms. Delacroix intersperses Welsh folktales along with adding a clever fairy, whose antics made me laugh out loud. There are so many heartwarming moments in this book, which celebrates family as much as true love. Ms. Delacroix has a unique gift for portraying her characters' human frailties in such a way that they spring forth from the pages, endearing them to me as I cheer them on.

I'm not at all disappointed that the stage is set in this book for the next two, THE ROSE RED BRIDE and THE SNOW WHITE BRIDE, both coming in 2005. I highly recommend THE BEAUTY BRIDE as a historical with a flair for the unusual and a delightful cast of characters that I look forward to revisiting in future releases.

Review revisited - Originally reviewed and posted at Romance Junkies on Dec 1, 2004.
Profile Image for Pam Nelson.
3,798 reviews124 followers
December 6, 2016
3.5 The beauty bride Stars

This was a book club book, and I will tell you it was a bit of a struggle to get through for me. I don’t know what it is about the Historical genre that gets to me. But I always feel really dumb reading them. I spend most of my time researching the language; maybe I am lazy and feel pleasure reading to me shouldn't take that much effort.

I don’t know but I will tell you over all I enjoyed the story of Lady Madeline and Rhys even if I didn't agree with it much or had to re listen I don’t know how many times to make sense of some of it.

I really loved the tales Rhys would tell he sure had a way with his words. And I was rooting for him right from the very beginning even if he was a little .. ME Man.. YOU Woman.

I loved Lady Madeline’s spunk she doesn't take anything laying down. When she put her mind to something boy howdy does she does it.

I very much enjoyed the narration to this audio, but I probably won’t be searching out this author or this genre again. It’s just not for me and that’s ok too.

*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
Profile Image for April   ♥"LOS" ♥.
3,090 reviews60 followers
March 29, 2016
There is something heartfelt and romantic about the relationship between Rhys FitzHenry and Lady Madeline of Kinfairlie. While their meeting and engagement is quite unique, the bond that they develop is genuine.

After the death of her betrothed, Madeline has refused all other potential suitors. Tired of her refusal, her brother Alexander decides to auction her hand in marriage to the highest bidder. But things don't go as planned when mercenary and reputed traitor, Rhys FitzHenry, wins the auction. Unwilling to be sold off like property, Madeline escapes into the night, fleeing from her family and new fiancé.

What Madeline doesn't expect is for Rhys to chase after her and eventually capture her heart.
I would highly recommend this book to historical romance fans.

**Copy gifted by the Publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Profile Image for Sarah.
1 review
June 1, 2012
I found this for free through amazon kindle. I don't own a kindle, however I installed the pc software so I could read a few other interesting books I also found for free. As a full time student I've found it impossible to buy books over the last year and expect another year before I can afford to buy one. I was expecting this book to be just a bit of a time killer during my study breaks, but instead quickly found that I was skipping through my study to find time to read this. It was a fun read, with really passionate and interesting characters. Despite the predictability of certain events, I still found it wonderful to read with an interesting world I know nothing of. This was my first time reading any kind of romance novel, as I'm usually a fantasy/young adult reader, but by having the anonymity of reading it on my computer it was definitely a great step into the genre.

Also, I loved the way Madeline and Rhys fight (though that's probably more to do with the fact my partner and I are much the same), plus the banter between siblings.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Hillebrand .
334 reviews41 followers
June 11, 2023
Beautiful written story

This book was such a nice change to all the spicy books I have been reading. The story was had so many different points that it felt like the action never stopped. The writing was done so well that it captured me into the story
Profile Image for Candace.
950 reviews
April 10, 2017
Madeline is the Jewel of Kinfairlie. Rhys is searching for his uncle's missing child. He believes Madeline is that child. When Alexander, Madeline's brother, auctions off the Jewel of Kinfairlie as a wife for the winning bidder, Rhys wins Madeline's hand. He believes Madeline is the means to obtaining Caerwyn, a Welsh holding. Their life is filled with strife because Rhys has a price on his head for treason. Can their marriage be a love match, or will it end in annulment? Will Rhys be arrested for treason?

I found this novel an easy read. The main characters are well-rounded. We learn about the characters through Welsh tales. The secondary characters -- Alexander, Vivienne, Elizabeth, Rosamonde, Adele and Darg -- are delightful and, sometimes, funny. The plot and subplots are neatly tied up. The epilogue secured many loose ends. I would read further books by Claire Delacroix. I want to know what becomes of the secondary characters.
Profile Image for ☕️Kimberly  (Caffeinated Reviewer).
3,587 reviews785 followers
February 11, 2015
Coffee dates with The Beauty Bride

First date: Lady Madeline is the oldest unwed sister of Alexander, the new Laird of Kinfairlie. The coffers are running low and he must see them all wed. Madeline is refusing even though her beloved is believed dead. She holds out hope for his return and asks for more time. Alexander arranges of all things an auction to sell the first of his rarest gems to the highest bidder. Men he believes worthy have been invited to bid for her hand. Oh lordy, Madeline is none too happy. We see a little magical element here as the youngest sister sees a fairy and I immediately found her to be a kindred spirit. Rhys FitzHenry an uninvited guest manages to win the bid.  Madeline is drawn to him but fearful and quickly decides to run away. Accompanied by her groomsmen she flees in the middle of the night.

Second date: At dawn, all hell breaks loose as we learn Madeline’s long lost love has returned and that she and Rhys are missing. Things are about to get interesting. Delacroix shares another relationship in the castle and I am curious to know more. I adore how her female characters are strong, and speak their mind. Madeline is in great peril but thankfully unbeknownst to her Rhys isn't far behind.  Rhys is not a trusting soul and keeps his emotions in check. It is obvious he has a thing for Madeline despite his declarations that he needs her to secure his keep. The man is sexy but rough around the edges and lordy is he stubborn. His use of stories to communicate his feelings was sweet and I loved when he spoke in his native tongue. *swoon* Kidnapping, king’s guards, secrets and quibbles had me listening intently. Ruined, Madeline takes a leap of faith.

Third date: Ah, I want to bash the man’s head in. Rhys needs to let down his guard and trust Madeline. I understand as the author has done a splendid job of sharing his past with us. As they make their way across the countryside, they get to know each other and I could not help but laugh at their bickering and wicked banter. These two have no problems communicating while lying down but put some clothes on them and they get stupid. I enjoyed the way Delacroix allowed the relationship to build slowly as they began to understand each other. This final date has them being pursued as they make their way to his keep in Wales. Twists, betrayals, confession and revelations had me entranced as we made our way towards happily ever after.

The Beauty Bride followed familiar tropes but mixed in strong characters and twists, and I found myself swept up in the story. Saskia Maarleveld did a fine job with the narration, although I struggled at first getting use to Rhys’s voice. Her accent added to the story and I loved her interpretation of Madeline. The Rose Bride and the Snow White Bride will feature the other sisters of Alexander. I look forward to their adventurousness romances.

Audio provided by publisher/author This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
Profile Image for Katrina Passick Lumsden.
1,782 reviews12.9k followers
June 1, 2012
I find myself sort of semi-obsessed with historical romance right now, and this one was free on Amazon, so...

All things considered, it's not a bad book. The story is engaging, and there was enough suspense to keep me interested until the end. The fairy seemed a bit out of place, however. I don't know, it just didn't seem to really fit in with the rest of the story, and I don't know if that's due to sloppy writing or just personal preference on my part.

I found Madeline to be quite refreshing as a character. Smart and outspoken...and I also liked the fact that Rhys admired her for those traits instead of the alternative.

Note; the Goodreads synopsis is flawed; Madeline's former betrothed, James, was reported killed during a battle in France, not in the ship accident that claimed her parents.
Profile Image for Pooja Peravali.
Author 2 books110 followers
August 9, 2021
When Alexander auctions off the hand of his sister Madeline in marriage, no one expects that its winner will be a man accused of treason. Yet as she travels with Rhys, Madeline begins to realize that he is better than she could have ever thought.

This was an enjoyable read, with likable leads and a well-paced plot. I enjoyed the slightly archaic style of writing and the wealth of Welsh history. I did think that Rhys kept his secrets frustratingly firmly, but at least he did spill them eventually.
Profile Image for Brandi.
686 reviews35 followers
February 15, 2019
I really enjoyed this one as well, and may even have a bit of a book-girl-crush on Rhys. It is well-written and makes for a great introduction to Claire Delacroix's writing due to its length. After reading this, I am definitely looking forward to more of her works! I would recommend this to lovers of historical romance.
Profile Image for Maura.
3,883 reviews113 followers
May 14, 2017
When Madeline's older brother needs to marry off his sisters and they aren't exactly cooperative he comes up with a different scheme. He holds an auction for his oldest sister's hand and Rhys FitzHenry, a known traitor and complete stranger to her, is the winner. He sees this to his adantage, as he believes Madeline to be the daughter of his cousin and only other person who can claim his holdings and heritage, Caerwyn. Married to him, she cannot take it away from him, and he can begin his family and gain his sons to carry on his legacy. At first, Madeline is reluctant and schemes to run away, but Rhys follows her and convinces her to marry him. The more she learns of Rhys the more Madeline realizes that she was hasty in tying herself to a stranger, and yet she cannot deny that they're good together. But Rhys continues to deceive her and Madeline may not like the truth.

So definitely some good points in this particular story. I liked Madeline a lot. Rhys had some major flaws, but he was learning and growing throughout the story. Their action and friendship was interesting to read about and I absolutely love that Madeline refused to become even the least bit subservient to her new husband. I also found myself incredibly intrigued by Rosamunde and her situation with Tynan...as short as it was, it was absolutely gut-wrenching and I'd like to know how that turns out. I also appreciated that the killing and fighting in this story doesn't pull any punches. In other romances, you often see heroes showing mercy on the people they're fighting or knocking people out instead of slitting their throats. This story is a lot bloodier than those stories and it felt more realistic as a result.

Also some negatives though. Madeline, as much as I enjoyed her, was one of those heroines who would get all riled up and justifiably angry and not be able to hold on to her mad for more than a few minutes. Then, no matter that it was a pretty serious affront, she'd just forgive and move on. This is so frustrating for me, because she's moving on and I'm still stewing over how she was treated. For example, Rhys reveals that he's been a whole lot of a deceitful bastard to Madeline and she more or less forgives him within a few hours. Another is when he reveals that he wants sons and if she's not able to give them to him, he'll find a mistress upon which to have them. He sees nothing wrong with this, but Madeline is horrified. Despite this, she never really holds this against him again. And it was also sort of a loose end that Rhys never promises that he'll remain faithful to her...I mean sure, that's what an HEA is supposed to have and we just assume that he will, but when he makes a bald statement like that, I need some assurance that he will. . And on that whole topic of the mistress...Rhys is the son of such a union. His father wasn't having sons with his wife, so he brought a mistress in to live with them and she gave him one. Maybe this is a cultural thing, but Rhys seemed so very accepting of it and absolutely nobody felt sorry for the wife. Sure she turns out but why did no one consider that the situation drove her mad? Or that maybe she should have been afforded more respect and then none of this would have happened? She certainly wasn't deserving of consideration, but it never once occurred to anyone that her behavior could have been prevented and that she didn't deserve to be tossed aside like that. To my viewpoint, Rhys and the wife had a common betrayal in common and it surprised me that no one in the story was sympathetic enough to spot that. It seemed like another loose end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Susan.
1,735 reviews39 followers
January 20, 2017
Set on the east coast of Scotland, in 1421, Madeline is 23 and her betrothed James was killed on the English assault at Rougemont. Her brother Alexander is laird of Kinfairlie and as such, has the power to marry off herself and her 4 younger sisters (Annalise, Elizabeth, Viviane, Isabella). Madeline’s aunt Rosamund and uncle Tynman advise Alexander to hold an auction to sell off some of the estates art and jewels, including the matrimonial hand of Madeline. Needless to say, Madeline is not thrilled about this. Alexander insists because he has some serious debts. The auction happens swiftly yet Madeline is not satisfied being sold to the highest bidder (Rhys FitzHenry) so she runs away. This leads to all sorts of romantic silliness and adventure.

This was a sweet romance and an easy read. There’s a few bits of history tossed into the book, but for the most part, the setting is just background and doesn’t play into the plot or the characters. In fact, there are some historical inaccuracies or, to be more gentle, anomalies. For example, Madeline is 23 at the age of her first marriage and it would be much more likely that she and all her sisters, except perhaps for 12 year old Elizabeth, to be married off by now. Another example is Madeline’s thoughts on what determines a baby’s gender; Madeline is adamant that the mother has no control over the gender (which we now know to be correct) yet in the 15th century it was widely believed that women did indeed have some control over the gender of their baby. If you can ignore these types of historical anomalies, then you can probably enjoy this book.

It is a fun, simple adventure romance. Bride and groom are forced by circumstance into a marriage and eventually a bedchamber where they find out that they are compatible in at least one area of marriage. Of course there are subterfuges, secrets, and misunderstandings on both sides which each party has to decide whether or not to forgive. Then there’s the coming clean and revealing why they’ve been asses which is followed by the heroic rescue and/or sacrifice. Then comes the lovey-dovey reunion.

I really enjoyed several things about this book. First, there’s a sprite and Elizabeth can see her and interact with her. The sprite reminds me of an impertinent Tinkerbell. Then there are horses and they have names and their owners do fuss over them (always a good sign in a human). The love scenes are sweet and a little steamy (they were steamier than I expected which is a good thing). I also liked Rhys’s backstory, it being the darker, heavier side to the novel. Rhys is also a decent story teller in his own right and I quite enjoyed his little tales.

Once all the misunderstandings are out of the way, there’s a rescue needed. While I felt that it was a bit out of character for Madeline and her sisters, I still couldn’t but help enjoy these final scenes. These ladies are no shrinking violets after all. I would have enjoyed this book much more if the author had gone full on Fantasy genre and made the ladies bold to begin with. I can tell from how this book ends that the author has the skill to write a decent Fantasy novel.

I received a free copy of this book.

The Narration: Saskia Maarleveld was a good choice for this book. I really enjoyed her Scottish accent for most of the characters. Her males voices were believable and she had sexy voices for the marriage bed scenes.
Profile Image for Annie.
938 reviews32 followers
Read
November 30, 2016
I am not going to rate this book...I DNF, it is not my genre and I gave it almost 2hrs..it was for book club...and although the narration is lovely..I was listening to just listen...and I like to listen to enjoy...it did not catch my interest in 2hrs...so it is just not going to...I dont care for historical fiction...just not my thing...YMMV!
Profile Image for Coco.
1,137 reviews583 followers
April 9, 2014
Una historia sencilla, fácil de leer. No es el colmo de la originalidad, pero tiene puntos fuertes que ha sabido desarrollar.
Mi mayor pega es la de presentarnos a tantos personajes, ya que al ser una trilogía, podía haber dosificado el "bombardeo" de información.
76 reviews1 follower
January 22, 2018
A wonderful read with a little whimsy.

A historical romance with the whimsy of a fairy. Who can see her and who cannot. Twists and turns and secrets revealed. And of course, a happy ending!
Profile Image for GingerOrange.
1,420 reviews17 followers
March 14, 2025
Romance:3.5
Steaminess:3
Action/suspense:3
Overall:4

I’m really happy with this novel.

It’s been awhile since I’ve read a historical romance novel and I know they can be a hit-or-miss. But this was great. I loved that Rhys really leaned into his Welsh heritage and his stories and his eventually honesty about things. Madeline was great too. A sensible and take-no-shits character. The romance was sweet and full of adventure. Woven into the story was Rhys desire for inheritance of a fortress and his family’s history with the Crown.

The book was just steamy enough for me that it was believable. Two well written sex scenes and some chemistry here and there. I thought that was a perfect ratio. The writing was so great and felt accurate to the setting. The writing type lent itself well to an immersive experience.

Overall, this book reminded me why I love historical romances and that I should read them more often.
Profile Image for Fae.
1,295 reviews26 followers
October 24, 2021
I don’t usually read medieval romance books and with good reason. That is because these kind of books tend to focus more on histories and action and not on the romance itself.

Though I liked the hero for his protective nature and heroine for her spitfire and brave self, their chemistry wasn’t the best. The romance was overshadowed by the povs of other characters and long chunks of stories/histories which I couldn’t care less about. I found myself skimming those parts.

I probably wouldn’t read another book by this author as i frankly was bored and couldn’t wait to get it over and done with.
Profile Image for Joy.
32 reviews1 follower
May 21, 2021
I love happy endings!
Profile Image for Eileen Dandashi.
542 reviews17 followers
January 4, 2015
Having sampled Claire Delacroix’s books many years ago when quite young and recently having come back to her work with the audiobook The Rogue, I understand why I remember her name and came back to enjoy more. She writes excellent stories with intriguing plots, mixed with suspense and passion in a historical setting with lovely happy ever after endings. She will keep you enchanted. She has me.

The Beauty Bride plucked my heart strings. This book was the story of the pairing of Madeleine Lammergeier and Rhys FitzHenry. It’s also about how far a man will go to save his family’s home, and what makes a man falter making honorable choices. Alexander, the brother of Madeleine, and Rhys both make decisions, both trying to save something precious to each of them.

The lone Welsh, Rhys FitzHenry (absolutely love the voice Saskia uses), with a price on his head from the king, secured the hand of the gem of Kinfairlie. In so doing he secured his inheritance claim to a Welsh estate. I didn’t see Rhys a very honorable man at this point. He could only admire this brave woman who held herself with poise and fiery anger reproaching her brother for his deed of virtually selling her to the highest bidder. He liked women with spirit and as he got to know her, his instincts had accessed her correctly.

Madeleine felt betrayed by her brother, who had become desperate to save his family’s home. Being auctioned wasn’t a prank in bad taste, although she had suffered many from Alexander. Madeleine had plans to escape her brother and her betrothed. Her escape plans go awry and Rhys saves her from certain peril. But who saves her from herself? Entertaining dialog and exciting scenes eventually bring Rhys and Madeleine to understanding one another.

Rhys was just so lovable, even being deceitful, he was lovable. He was a man used to being alone, of few words, and wanted to return to Wales with his bride with all speed. He was honorable even having deceived Madeleine. His brusqueness Madeleine did not understand or appreciate. One minute he was rude and the next he was telling her a tale that could melt all anger—and her heart. A bard he was with his tales and lovingly narrated with Saskia’s Welsh accent.

We experience the magic of the narrator, Saskia Maarleveld’s pleasant voice and easy story telling quality. Her mellow, cultured, soothing voice, characterized Madeline, showing the listener clearly the manner of woman she is. Saskia pours out Alexander’s frustration and vexation through a sarcastic and witty dialog between Alexander, Madeleine and her sisters. I think the loveliest dialog comes from Rhys FitzHenry with his Welsh accent when he speaks with Madeleine and tells his bard’s tales. I highly recommend this listen if you love historical romance audiobooks with a quality narration.
Profile Image for Shauni.
1,061 reviews27 followers
September 28, 2012
The Beauty Bride is the first in The Brides of Kinfarlie Series and yes it is a reprint but if you haven't had a chance to read this series or this author give it a try. Claire Delacroix has long been a favorite of mine, although lately she has been sneaking around as Deborah Cooke and writing some wonderful Dragon Stories.. but Beauty is pure Claire. Intricate, interesting, detailed, sensual, simply divine.

The new Laird of Kinfarlie has all sorts of troubles, first off winter is not that far off and he just can't imagine how he is going to be able to feed his family.. and he has not 1, not 2 not 3, not 4 but FIVE sisters to marry off.. and none of them will marry before the eldest and she is just not willing. Head in hands not sure what to do, he decides to auction of the Jewel of Kinfarlie in a private auction. Of course he doesn't bother to tell any of his sisters about this. One would think this would be bad enough but once they get to their uncle's keep, the youngest sister, Elizabeth starts seeing fairies. An ugly, malicious faerie, determined to cause as much mischief as possible.

Lady Madeline is on pissed off sister. To think not only is her brother auctioning her off, yes that's right auctioning her off but it's at her Uncle's Keep and both her aunt and uncle are involved.. Determined to not be sold as cattle or chattel she tries to devise a means of escape.. Finally leaving the keep in the dead of the night with only one guard for protection she is off. Of course said guard is not there to guard her...

Rhys FitzHenry, the bastard son of a Welsh lord branded a traitor to the crown, is determined to gain title to his home. Thinking that Madeline is in actuality the long lost child of the missing heir he determines to purchase her, marry her and claim his castle. Easy Peasy.. *rolls eyes* Men really can be clueless. Sure he buys his bride, but before he can even think of marrying her he must track her down. Saving her from being raped isn't enough now he must find the quickest way to marry her and get them to Welsh soil.

You have to feel for Rhys, this man faces ridiculous obstacles, a recalcitrant bride, a greedy aunt who wants to gain Madeline's bride price as a dower for her abby, family hunting them down and a former fiance say, the love of Madeline's life back from the dead.. On the run from just about everyone these two meet as equals in their marriage and learn just what a real marriage consists of. Working together to survive seems to be the perfect environment for a couple to bond. To discover just what real love can be..

I am so glad to see this series in reprint and am looking forward to reading the entire series and can't wait until the continuation series begins next spring..

Shauni
Profile Image for Blog Coccole tra i Libri .
1,452 reviews98 followers
March 24, 2020
Recensione a cura di Saluinadia

"Più preziosi dell'oro sono i Gioielli di Kinfairlie, e solo l'uomo più degno può combattere per ottenere il loro amore...”


Il genere storico è stato il mio primo amore, ho letto tanti libri su questo genere che mi sono innamorata delle ambientazioni, dei luoghi, della società di quell’epoca. Le autrici hanno sempre saputo mettere nero su bianco ciò che avevano nella loro mente o anche come si erano documentate per descrivere minuziosamente nei dettagli, le più piccole sfumature.

Ho riscontrato la stessa solerzia anche con Claire Delacroix.

Il suo stile è così chiaro che il lettore si troverà inserito negli stessi luoghi, ampi o angusti, in cui vivono i protagonisti, in questo caso in cui si svolgono i fatti e le dinamiche di Madeline e Rhys.

Adoro le donne del passato, molte di loro vengono additate come donne sottomesse al proprio uomo e spesso senza neanche alcuna considerazione, se non quella di generare eredi, ma non dimentichiamo, mai, che tra queste ci sono chi, invece, sa tener testa all’uomo e farsi rispettare e amare come dev’essere.

Madeline e la sua indipendenza, Madeline e il suo non cedere all’insistenza del suo laird, tutto questo fa di Madeline la donna che in ognuno di noi c’è e si fa avanti per farsi valere.


"Mi sposerò quando deciderò io, Alexander. Nè prima nè dopo. Ma non temere: sono sicura che alla fine tutto si risolverà bene"


Rhys e il suo essere uomo, Rhys e il suo desiderio di pace, Rhys vi farà innamorare e lo seguirete perché avrete bisogno di conoscere i suoi segreti, di supportarlo nel suo cammino, di far sì che possa raggiungere quella pace che tanto desidera.


“E, per la prima volta da anni, Rhys FitzHenry si concesse il lusso di scoppiare a ridere, sotto gli occhi deliziati della moglie.”


Se amate il genere storico, adorerete la Delacroix, impazzirete per i suoi protagonisti e come me vi tufferete nelle pagine di un altro gioiello di Kinfairlie.

Le emozioni vi accompagneranno dall’inizio alla fine e ne resterete entusiaste.

Buona lettura e alla prossima.


4 coccole
Profile Image for Jenna.
363 reviews
June 10, 2012
A great story of Medieval-era romance~~~~~ After Madeline renounced not to marry upon knowing the demise of her betrothed in a French war, her brother Alexander was desperate for a wedding. Helping the family state being distitute, so Alexander doesn't have a choice but auction Madeline off. All the Scottish noble around the country gathered for the sale, and are outbid by Rhy's FitzHenry an avaricious and a well-known traitor of the king.

Though Rhy's was looking for a bride, Madeline in particular, to assure the Welsh state, since Madeline is the next in-line to inherit. By Welsh law cousin could marry, and Madeline happens to be Rhy's cousin in the father side of the family. Rhy's was so determined to marry Madeline,did take advantage of her vulnerability, and the two get married (of course by the help of a "spriggan" named Darg, a small fairy twining Madeline's hair with a golden ribbon).

After the wedding Rhy's escorted Madeline to castle Kinfairlie to avoid the Kings wrath, since the king put a bounty on Rhy's head. While, Madeline and Rhys are heading to castle Kinfairlie...Alexander felt guilty, and willing to give Rhy the money back from the auction and annul the wedding. The rest was a good adventure how Madeline's Aunt Rosamunde, Alexander, Elizabeth, Madeline's betrothed, Viviene went after them to Kinfairle apparently rescued Rhy's from the bandits who plots to kill him.
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