What do you think?
Rate this book
Medieval Outlaws #1
Danger's Kiss
STEALING HIS HEART…
A thief by trade, Desiree of Canterbury can squirm out of any tight spot with a wink and a smile…until she meets her match in Nicholas Grimshaw, the most feared lawman in the shire. After Nicholas is forced to execute her guardian, he is honor-bound to care for Desiree. But Desiree may be the death of him yet, disrupting his orderly life until he doesn’t know whether to kiss her or kill her. Just when she decides to let him make an honest woman of her, a ruthless enemy rears its ugly head, and Desiree and Nicholas must use all their wiles to escape danger, cheat death, and save their newfound love.
A thief by trade, Desiree of Canterbury can squirm out of any tight spot with a wink and a smile…until she meets her match in Nicholas Grimshaw, the most feared lawman in the shire. After Nicholas is forced to execute her guardian, he is honor-bound to care for Desiree. But Desiree may be the death of him yet, disrupting his orderly life until he doesn’t know whether to kiss her or kill her. Just when she decides to let him make an honest woman of her, a ruthless enemy rears its ugly head, and Desiree and Nicholas must use all their wiles to escape danger, cheat death, and save their newfound love.
ebook
First published May 1, 2008
1074 people are currently reading
2066 people want to read
About the author
Sarah McKerrigan
4 books138 followersFrom http://www.sarahmckerrigan.com/index...
Sarah McKerrigan is another pen name of GLYNNIS CAMPBELL. When she isn’t writing historical romance, she’s the voice of several cartoon characters, the wife of a rock star, and the mother of two nerdy kids.
She started her eclectic career as a ballerina in her hometown of Paradise, California, where she became the city’s Gold Nugget Queen. She graduated from CSU Chico with a degree in Music with Distinction, singing arias by day and playing rock and roll at night.
A lifelong love of towering castles, trusty swords, and knights (and damsels) in shining armor prompted Glynnis to try writing historical romance. Her premiere novel, MY CHAMPION, was a finalist for a RITA award. Her subsequent MY WARRIOR, MY HERO, and A KNIGHT’S VOW received multiple awards and critical acclaim.
Under the nom de plume of Sarah McKerrigan, Glynnis has written three medieval romance novels for Warner Books featuring kick-ass warrior wenches: LADY DANGER, CAPTIVE HEART, and KNIGHT’S PRIZE
Sarah McKerrigan is another pen name of GLYNNIS CAMPBELL. When she isn’t writing historical romance, she’s the voice of several cartoon characters, the wife of a rock star, and the mother of two nerdy kids.
She started her eclectic career as a ballerina in her hometown of Paradise, California, where she became the city’s Gold Nugget Queen. She graduated from CSU Chico with a degree in Music with Distinction, singing arias by day and playing rock and roll at night.
A lifelong love of towering castles, trusty swords, and knights (and damsels) in shining armor prompted Glynnis to try writing historical romance. Her premiere novel, MY CHAMPION, was a finalist for a RITA award. Her subsequent MY WARRIOR, MY HERO, and A KNIGHT’S VOW received multiple awards and critical acclaim.
Under the nom de plume of Sarah McKerrigan, Glynnis has written three medieval romance novels for Warner Books featuring kick-ass warrior wenches: LADY DANGER, CAPTIVE HEART, and KNIGHT’S PRIZE
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
Want to read
March 24, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/24/2019)! 🎁
April 16, 2008
I haven't ever read anything from this author before. So I really didn't know what to expect when I first started reading this book. I wasn't disappointed. The hero was very compelling to me. He is basically a social outcast because of his position in the community. He is a borderline alcoholic, and is pretty lonely in general. Saying that he is still pretty tough and is feared by most in the town he lives in. I liked that when the heroine enters his life unexpectedly, even though there is conflict they eventually bring out the best in each other.
Desiree Kabayn has learned from the best. At thirteen, her parents sold her to a common thief Hubert Kabayn for the money. In the six years that has past, she has learned the skills needed to be a great pickpocket, scam artist and to use any other dishonest way she can get money from other people’s pockets, into her own. Life with Hubert hasn’t been easy. He is abusive and often cruel at times, but he is the only person she can rely on. So, she is surprised when he sends her off on a wild goose chase, only to discover when she returns, that he is about to be hanged for murder right before her very eyes. Watching him hang from the gallows, Desiree vows to clear his name and avenge his death.
Nicolas Grimshaw enforces the law. As the local shire-reeve, he has the difficult job of hunting down the truth from criminals. Known by the locals as the grim reaper he is often accused to using unconventional methods to get a confession, or to solve a case. Loathed and feared because of the title he holds, people make a wide girth around him, when they see him coming. When Nicolas watches over Hubert Kabayn the night before his execution, Hubert makes the lawman promise to watch over and take care of his “granddaughter” Desiree. As he supervises the execution of Hubert, he can’t shake the feeling that they are executing the wrong man.
Blinded by grief and revenge, Desiree blames Nicolas for Hubert’s execution. She follows Nicolas home with intention of killing him. So when she sneaks upon Nicolas and attacks him, he is at first surprised by the assault by the beautiful young woman determined on doing him bodily damage. He soon figures out that this is the woman he has promised to look out for. So instead of arresting her for the assault, he restrains her and takes her to the graveyard to help her lay Hubert to rest. Desiree is shocked when she sees that Nicolas isn’t the monster she thought he was. She is astounded by his help burying Hubert and his offer of money to get her through the winter. Angry and stubborn, she throw Nicolas’ money in his face and leaves.
When Nicolas comes across Desiree six days later participating in an illegal game, he practically blackmails her to be his servant. Furious that he is making her serve him, she does some very funny things to get even with him. As the days pass she realizes that Nicolas is good man, albeit a lonely one. As their relationship grows, she asks Nicolas for his help finding the real killer and clearing Hubert’s name.
Will they find the real killer?
I liked they way the characters evolved together learned to trust and love on another. I also, liked that there wasn't the "big misunderstanding" too..that can drive me crazy!
Desiree Kabayn has learned from the best. At thirteen, her parents sold her to a common thief Hubert Kabayn for the money. In the six years that has past, she has learned the skills needed to be a great pickpocket, scam artist and to use any other dishonest way she can get money from other people’s pockets, into her own. Life with Hubert hasn’t been easy. He is abusive and often cruel at times, but he is the only person she can rely on. So, she is surprised when he sends her off on a wild goose chase, only to discover when she returns, that he is about to be hanged for murder right before her very eyes. Watching him hang from the gallows, Desiree vows to clear his name and avenge his death.
Nicolas Grimshaw enforces the law. As the local shire-reeve, he has the difficult job of hunting down the truth from criminals. Known by the locals as the grim reaper he is often accused to using unconventional methods to get a confession, or to solve a case. Loathed and feared because of the title he holds, people make a wide girth around him, when they see him coming. When Nicolas watches over Hubert Kabayn the night before his execution, Hubert makes the lawman promise to watch over and take care of his “granddaughter” Desiree. As he supervises the execution of Hubert, he can’t shake the feeling that they are executing the wrong man.
Blinded by grief and revenge, Desiree blames Nicolas for Hubert’s execution. She follows Nicolas home with intention of killing him. So when she sneaks upon Nicolas and attacks him, he is at first surprised by the assault by the beautiful young woman determined on doing him bodily damage. He soon figures out that this is the woman he has promised to look out for. So instead of arresting her for the assault, he restrains her and takes her to the graveyard to help her lay Hubert to rest. Desiree is shocked when she sees that Nicolas isn’t the monster she thought he was. She is astounded by his help burying Hubert and his offer of money to get her through the winter. Angry and stubborn, she throw Nicolas’ money in his face and leaves.
When Nicolas comes across Desiree six days later participating in an illegal game, he practically blackmails her to be his servant. Furious that he is making her serve him, she does some very funny things to get even with him. As the days pass she realizes that Nicolas is good man, albeit a lonely one. As their relationship grows, she asks Nicolas for his help finding the real killer and clearing Hubert’s name.
Will they find the real killer?
I liked they way the characters evolved together learned to trust and love on another. I also, liked that there wasn't the "big misunderstanding" too..that can drive me crazy!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2014
So many stupid things are done at the end of this book that it killed any enjoyment I took in the story prior to that point.
July 19, 2012
Set in 13th century England, Danger's Kiss is a medieval romance between a trained thief named Desirée and the village lawman, Nicholas Grimshaw. Years ago, Desirée was sold by her desperate parents to an elderly, experienced thief named Hubert Kabayn who mentored her in the fine art of trickery and used her as an accomplice in his daily thievery. She's a quick witted and lively beautiful young woman. Nicholas Grimshaw is the most feared lawman in the shire, known for his satchel of torture instruments that he uses to extract confessions from criminals and the ruthlessness with which he carries out punishments. He has become a grim, serious and lonely man.
When Hubert is executed for a murder he didn't commit, Desirée becomes determined to clear his nam. Her plans to avenge Hubert's wrongful execution get delayed, however, when Nicholas honors the promise he made to Hubert just before his execution to care for Desirée. In order to keep Desirée off the streets, Nicholas hires her as his maidservant in his cottage in the outskirts of town. She tries to make trouble where she can so that Nicholas will want to release her but she soon finds she likes earning an honest wage and living a simple life in Nicholas' cottage. In fact, they both find happiness in each other's company that they've never before felt.
Desirée continues to try to clear Hubert's name and determine the true murderer's name. In the process, she gets into some serious trouble that even the powerful and feared Nicholas Grimshaw may not be able to fix.
Danger's Kiss is a pleasant read with a fun storyline, but lacks the depth and emotional punch that would make it a notable read. The romance is sweet and I liked the way Desirée and Nicholas were forced together due to Nicholas' promise to Hubert and that their affection for each other grew naturally. They complimented each other well and it was obvious they enjoyed each other's company. The passion that developed between them was also very natural and consequently the romance believable. Still, the romance could have benefitted from a stronger, more passionate bond or revelation of love between them.
Similarly, I felt the conflict in the story outside the romance was a bit weak and under developed. The villain is pretty lame--a wealthy Lady in the shire conspiring to gain an inheritance. Her elaborate schemes just to acquire wealth she practically already had access to just didn't make sense.
The hours I spent reading Danger's Kiss were pleasant enough. I liked Desirée and Nicholas and think they're a good match. I just wish there was more to both the romance and conflict.
When Hubert is executed for a murder he didn't commit, Desirée becomes determined to clear his nam. Her plans to avenge Hubert's wrongful execution get delayed, however, when Nicholas honors the promise he made to Hubert just before his execution to care for Desirée. In order to keep Desirée off the streets, Nicholas hires her as his maidservant in his cottage in the outskirts of town. She tries to make trouble where she can so that Nicholas will want to release her but she soon finds she likes earning an honest wage and living a simple life in Nicholas' cottage. In fact, they both find happiness in each other's company that they've never before felt.
Desirée continues to try to clear Hubert's name and determine the true murderer's name. In the process, she gets into some serious trouble that even the powerful and feared Nicholas Grimshaw may not be able to fix.
Danger's Kiss is a pleasant read with a fun storyline, but lacks the depth and emotional punch that would make it a notable read. The romance is sweet and I liked the way Desirée and Nicholas were forced together due to Nicholas' promise to Hubert and that their affection for each other grew naturally. They complimented each other well and it was obvious they enjoyed each other's company. The passion that developed between them was also very natural and consequently the romance believable. Still, the romance could have benefitted from a stronger, more passionate bond or revelation of love between them.
Similarly, I felt the conflict in the story outside the romance was a bit weak and under developed. The villain is pretty lame--a wealthy Lady in the shire conspiring to gain an inheritance. Her elaborate schemes just to acquire wealth she practically already had access to just didn't make sense.
The hours I spent reading Danger's Kiss were pleasant enough. I liked Desirée and Nicholas and think they're a good match. I just wish there was more to both the romance and conflict.
September 3, 2013
This was a pretty intense read. I loved it! Definitely enjoyed the romance and the action. I also learned a lot of old English words which was pretty cool. This author clearly researched her subject area/time period really thoroughly and did a great job representing it in this romance novel. It also had a bit of danger, mystery, and action to it. It was a great read and I intend on reading more from this author.
December 14, 2017
I won this book as a Goodreads Giveaway.
Set in Canterbury in 1250, Desiree is apprentice to a pickpocket and Nicholas is the shire-reeve (sheriff) who has been suckered into looking out for her as a last promise to her mentor before he hangs the old man. She agrees to essentially work for him as a servant/maid, hijinks and romance ensue, etc.
I was pretty excited when I won this book. Most romances, thanks to dear old Aunt Jane (and her spiritual goddaughter Georgette), are set in the regency era, with a focus on the upper middle and upper class as the main characters. So it was refreshing to see a romance set in a very much under-represented time, and with people who are on the fringe of society instead of perching at the top of it. Unfortunately, not much is DONE with this new setting and new stratum of society. There was plenty of opportunity, but ultimately the plot didn't feel terribly different, barring a few different vocabulary words, than your average romance/adventure set with dukes and ladies in 1795. The book still hits all the common romance beats you would expect it to, with little straying from a well-worn path.
Basically, this is a romance that does exactly what it needs to do, but unfortunately does not rise above its genre despite its new setting and closer eye at a different social set. It wasn't quite a "wallpaper" romance, but it was closer than I had hoped.
If you enjoy romance novels in general, you will find this a well-written and satisfying one, with a new setting to keep things somewhat fresh. If you are hoping for a unique take on romance/adventure, or to learn anything relatively substantial about what life was like for common folk during the middle ages, this book will not provide that.
3 stars. A worthy romance, but had the opportunity to be much more.
Set in Canterbury in 1250, Desiree is apprentice to a pickpocket and Nicholas is the shire-reeve (sheriff) who has been suckered into looking out for her as a last promise to her mentor before he hangs the old man. She agrees to essentially work for him as a servant/maid, hijinks and romance ensue, etc.
I was pretty excited when I won this book. Most romances, thanks to dear old Aunt Jane (and her spiritual goddaughter Georgette), are set in the regency era, with a focus on the upper middle and upper class as the main characters. So it was refreshing to see a romance set in a very much under-represented time, and with people who are on the fringe of society instead of perching at the top of it. Unfortunately, not much is DONE with this new setting and new stratum of society. There was plenty of opportunity, but ultimately the plot didn't feel terribly different, barring a few different vocabulary words, than your average romance/adventure set with dukes and ladies in 1795. The book still hits all the common romance beats you would expect it to, with little straying from a well-worn path.
Basically, this is a romance that does exactly what it needs to do, but unfortunately does not rise above its genre despite its new setting and closer eye at a different social set. It wasn't quite a "wallpaper" romance, but it was closer than I had hoped.
If you enjoy romance novels in general, you will find this a well-written and satisfying one, with a new setting to keep things somewhat fresh. If you are hoping for a unique take on romance/adventure, or to learn anything relatively substantial about what life was like for common folk during the middle ages, this book will not provide that.
3 stars. A worthy romance, but had the opportunity to be much more.
June 3, 2020
I was thoroughly enjoying this book until the last few chapters when the heroine stupidly admitted to the villain that she knew everything and endangered herself. Then the hero confronts the villain ALONE and only makes things worse! It was as if two different authors wrote this book, or the author decided to make things as complicated as possible. The resolution was ridiculous and hardly made any sense.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2022
3.5+ Stars
A thoroughly enjoyable read. Nicholas, Desiree and
Snowflake were brought together in an unusual but entertaining way. I'm not usually drawn to historical romances but this had just the right mix of suspense and romance.
A thoroughly enjoyable read. Nicholas, Desiree and
Snowflake were brought together in an unusual but entertaining way. I'm not usually drawn to historical romances but this had just the right mix of suspense and romance.
October 28, 2013
I love this author's books in general and Danger's Kiss in particular is spectacular. Sarah McKerrigan / Glynnis Campbell presents believable, rounded, human characters who have strengths and weaknesses and doubts. You grow to care for them immediately, and get drawn into the world they inhabit.
As a young teen, Desiree was sold by her desperately poor parents to a grifter. He was rough but kind to her, and she took to thievery as a normal way of life. Now her protector has been hung and she is out for revenge. She's good with a dagger and not at all afraid to use it. Nicholas Grimshaw is the shire-reeve who was forced to do the hanging, but he had doubts about the old man's guilt. Now he's saddled with his promise to watch out for the woman, at least for a little while.
What follows is simply wonderful. Desiree is intelligent. She's witty. And she's wise. So many times in stories the heroines do completely idiotic things for plot reasons. And that's not to say that Desiree is perfect - she makes human mistakes. But when a threat appears, she realizes it, considers her options, and goes for the wise one most of the time. I could only wish most authors created heroines like this. It's so much more satisfying than screaming at a book "no you stupid fool, why are you doing that???"
And in the same way, Nicholas is strong, honorable, focused - and he's also burdened by issues that are quite realistic. You can see exactly why he is the way he is, exactly why he makes his decisions, and you can feel for him. Everything makes sense. It is a joy to read.
The many little touches are brilliant. Clearly the author did her research, weaving in food choices, cooking techniques, clothing, and much more. You get a rich sense of the medieval world without it turning into a dry tome.
There were minor issues with the point of view sliding at times, but that seems to happen in most books. Also, my one complaint would be that in one section Nicholas scoffs because men are in love with a woman who is "a bit plump and pox-scarred". OK, she's a bit plump, so therefore she's hideous? In fact, he thinks "he supposed there was naught more attractive to lads of that age than a lass who would tell them aye, and that was likely her charm". OK so a woman who is a bit plump, and has a few dents on her face, has to put out in order to be liked. I resist statements like that :). Aren't women much more than that? And does that mean if Desiree puts on a little weight and recovers from the pox that he'll dump her, unless she continues to put out for him? :).
Still, that was my only gripe in a book which is rich in warmth, detail, and emotion. Highly recommended!
As a young teen, Desiree was sold by her desperately poor parents to a grifter. He was rough but kind to her, and she took to thievery as a normal way of life. Now her protector has been hung and she is out for revenge. She's good with a dagger and not at all afraid to use it. Nicholas Grimshaw is the shire-reeve who was forced to do the hanging, but he had doubts about the old man's guilt. Now he's saddled with his promise to watch out for the woman, at least for a little while.
What follows is simply wonderful. Desiree is intelligent. She's witty. And she's wise. So many times in stories the heroines do completely idiotic things for plot reasons. And that's not to say that Desiree is perfect - she makes human mistakes. But when a threat appears, she realizes it, considers her options, and goes for the wise one most of the time. I could only wish most authors created heroines like this. It's so much more satisfying than screaming at a book "no you stupid fool, why are you doing that???"
And in the same way, Nicholas is strong, honorable, focused - and he's also burdened by issues that are quite realistic. You can see exactly why he is the way he is, exactly why he makes his decisions, and you can feel for him. Everything makes sense. It is a joy to read.
The many little touches are brilliant. Clearly the author did her research, weaving in food choices, cooking techniques, clothing, and much more. You get a rich sense of the medieval world without it turning into a dry tome.
There were minor issues with the point of view sliding at times, but that seems to happen in most books. Also, my one complaint would be that in one section Nicholas scoffs because men are in love with a woman who is "a bit plump and pox-scarred". OK, she's a bit plump, so therefore she's hideous? In fact, he thinks "he supposed there was naught more attractive to lads of that age than a lass who would tell them aye, and that was likely her charm". OK so a woman who is a bit plump, and has a few dents on her face, has to put out in order to be liked. I resist statements like that :). Aren't women much more than that? And does that mean if Desiree puts on a little weight and recovers from the pox that he'll dump her, unless she continues to put out for him? :).
Still, that was my only gripe in a book which is rich in warmth, detail, and emotion. Highly recommended!
July 25, 2011
Such a fun read! The hero Nicholas is a lawman who pretends to be ruthless, harsh but who's really a tenderhearted, merciful man who portrays himself as quite the opposite so as to be able to protect the weak n poor who inadvertently get into the way of the law due to their desperation to survive. Desiree, the heroine is a young thief, sold by her parents to a (elderly) thief who wanted a younger person to play decoy.
When Nicholas indentures Desiree as his maidservant as a boon to her guardian who is hanged for a murder he did not commit, the sparks really fly. It so funny how Desiree initially cooks up all sorts up schemes to make Nicholas release her but she soon discovers the kind of man he really is.
I'm definitely looking out for more of this authors books.
When Nicholas indentures Desiree as his maidservant as a boon to her guardian who is hanged for a murder he did not commit, the sparks really fly. It so funny how Desiree initially cooks up all sorts up schemes to make Nicholas release her but she soon discovers the kind of man he really is.
I'm definitely looking out for more of this authors books.
November 13, 2009
Set in medieval England, Danger's Kiss follows Desiree, a thief trying to mend her wicked ways, and Nicholas, the shire lawman with a heart of gold. The historical details are nice and includes period language (anyone up for a good swive?), while the romance is fun.
The murder/suspense element was a bit flat though, especially since the murderer was one-dimensional (evil ice queen who's out for an inheritance). I also didn't understand why the villain told her husband her evil plans. Why not just kill her father-in-law and collect the inheritance with no one the wiser?
Read for an historical romance reader's advisory assignment.
The murder/suspense element was a bit flat though, especially since the murderer was one-dimensional (evil ice queen who's out for an inheritance). I also didn't understand why the villain told her husband her evil plans. Why not just kill her father-in-law and collect the inheritance with no one the wiser?
Read for an historical romance reader's advisory assignment.
October 1, 2011
Bah!! There was no plot at all!!!! The only thing we got read about was the very intimate relationship between the lawman and the outlaw. booooorrring.
January 24, 2025
Reform and Condemn
Shire-reeveNicholas Grimshaw was feared by all and stood as an iron fist of the law. Today he was carrying out the execution for Hubert. The thief was accused of murder, but Nicholas didn't believe the man was guilty. Hubert refused to fight the charge but he asked Nicholas to promise to take care of his granddaughter, Desiree. Believing he would be finding a home for an orphaned child, Nicholas agreed. At Hubert's hanging, Nicholas was shocked when Hubert jumped, snapping his neck, dying instantly in the gallows. An angry woman threw a rock at Nicholas, causing a gash in his cheek. The woman fled from the scene.
Nicholas made the cold trek home. He vowed he would find the girl after he buried Hubert. What he wasn't aware of was Hubert had pulled one more deception.
Desiree followed Nicholas home. She wasn't Hubert's grandaughter, but had been sold to him by her parents. Hubert had used her as a distraction and taught her how to steal. She became adept at using sleight of hand to take money from unsuspecting people. She didn't know that Hubert was sentenced to hang. She had followed the crowd and was going to pilfer their money while they were distracted. Now, with no money, no home, and alone, Desiree sought vengeance, She snuck into Nicholas' house intending to kill him. But Desiree was not a killer.
The growing tension in this book built a slow-burn romance. I found Desiree and Nicholas entertaing with their wit and antics. They were constantly trying to outwit the others. But in two weeks, Desiree found that she didn't want to remain an outlaw. However, she knew that her stay with Nicholas was supposed to be temporary. Nicholas found a sense of contentment and found her companionship was something he was in dire need of. The darkness of Hubert's death was always looming over Desiree, causing the suspense to build intensity. The cat, Azrea/Snowflake, added humor and became significant for his role in the unpredictable plot. Vivid details made this story easy to envision. I have read several of Glynnis Campbell's books and she never ceases to amaze me with original stories with intrigue and plot twists. The character development is beyond words. This book deserves more than five stars.
Shire-reeveNicholas Grimshaw was feared by all and stood as an iron fist of the law. Today he was carrying out the execution for Hubert. The thief was accused of murder, but Nicholas didn't believe the man was guilty. Hubert refused to fight the charge but he asked Nicholas to promise to take care of his granddaughter, Desiree. Believing he would be finding a home for an orphaned child, Nicholas agreed. At Hubert's hanging, Nicholas was shocked when Hubert jumped, snapping his neck, dying instantly in the gallows. An angry woman threw a rock at Nicholas, causing a gash in his cheek. The woman fled from the scene.
Nicholas made the cold trek home. He vowed he would find the girl after he buried Hubert. What he wasn't aware of was Hubert had pulled one more deception.
Desiree followed Nicholas home. She wasn't Hubert's grandaughter, but had been sold to him by her parents. Hubert had used her as a distraction and taught her how to steal. She became adept at using sleight of hand to take money from unsuspecting people. She didn't know that Hubert was sentenced to hang. She had followed the crowd and was going to pilfer their money while they were distracted. Now, with no money, no home, and alone, Desiree sought vengeance, She snuck into Nicholas' house intending to kill him. But Desiree was not a killer.
The growing tension in this book built a slow-burn romance. I found Desiree and Nicholas entertaing with their wit and antics. They were constantly trying to outwit the others. But in two weeks, Desiree found that she didn't want to remain an outlaw. However, she knew that her stay with Nicholas was supposed to be temporary. Nicholas found a sense of contentment and found her companionship was something he was in dire need of. The darkness of Hubert's death was always looming over Desiree, causing the suspense to build intensity. The cat, Azrea/Snowflake, added humor and became significant for his role in the unpredictable plot. Vivid details made this story easy to envision. I have read several of Glynnis Campbell's books and she never ceases to amaze me with original stories with intrigue and plot twists. The character development is beyond words. This book deserves more than five stars.
July 26, 2020
Nicholas Grmishaw is the shire-reeve of Canterbury, which means that everyone is afraid of him and no one wants to know him, especially women. So although he is excellent at his profession, he leads a lonely life of solitude.
But he is thrown together with the beautiful, outspoken and mischievous young Desiree Kabayn. Nicholas is captivated by Desiree who teases him and is unafraid of him, while she is in turn is equally drawn to the handsome, musclebound giant, who might intimidate everyone he meets, but to Desiree he shows his true self, a kind, honourable and humorous gentle man.
But there are dark forces plotting against them and as they realise they love each other, they also come to realise that they will have a fight for survival on their hands too.
Glynnis Campbell captures this era beautifully with her descriptive and accurate writing. She brings emotion, humour, great characters and passion into this story, including a fluffy white cat!
It is a captivating ride, from the first to the last page. I absolutely loved it!
But he is thrown together with the beautiful, outspoken and mischievous young Desiree Kabayn. Nicholas is captivated by Desiree who teases him and is unafraid of him, while she is in turn is equally drawn to the handsome, musclebound giant, who might intimidate everyone he meets, but to Desiree he shows his true self, a kind, honourable and humorous gentle man.
But there are dark forces plotting against them and as they realise they love each other, they also come to realise that they will have a fight for survival on their hands too.
Glynnis Campbell captures this era beautifully with her descriptive and accurate writing. She brings emotion, humour, great characters and passion into this story, including a fluffy white cat!
It is a captivating ride, from the first to the last page. I absolutely loved it!
March 14, 2021
Yes, looking at the cover, I would normally pass this up. As it was free from BookBub, I figured why not. I should have trusted my intuition.
The plot itself wasn’t bad and was well researched: Canterbury sheriff with a hidden tender side gets caught up with gorgeous pickpocket who he’s promised to take care of and they fall in love. The main characters were well developed; you see both of them being influenced by the other and slowly fall in love.
The secondary character was just wretched however. Poorly developed. While her role in the story is essential, everything that drives her is left to the end, where she meets a very convenient end.
The only things that really bothered me was the poorly executed subplot and the heroine calling the hero “Nicky” (that just really bugged me) it was a decent, “I’m in a waiting room” book. I did however, remove the author’s three other books I had in my digital TBR pile.
The plot itself wasn’t bad and was well researched: Canterbury sheriff with a hidden tender side gets caught up with gorgeous pickpocket who he’s promised to take care of and they fall in love. The main characters were well developed; you see both of them being influenced by the other and slowly fall in love.
The secondary character was just wretched however. Poorly developed. While her role in the story is essential, everything that drives her is left to the end, where she meets a very convenient end.
The only things that really bothered me was the poorly executed subplot and the heroine calling the hero “Nicky” (that just really bugged me) it was a decent, “I’m in a waiting room” book. I did however, remove the author’s three other books I had in my digital TBR pile.
May 22, 2020
CW/TW: death by hanging, murder, torture, threat of animal death*, stabbing, violence, kidnapping, mentions of violence and death, mentions of child abuse/selling children, mention of incest and rape, accidental death, theft and sleight of hand, death by poison
Danger's Kiss is an addictive romance that slowly builds because of close proximity. There is a good deal of violence in the novel and I'm not even sure if I mentioned every violent act in my content warnings. I loved the well developed romance between Desirée and Nicholas but I felt the plot wrapped up a bit too quickly in the end. This is a fun, steamy read that was free on Nook a few weeks ago and I'm glad I picked it up. I'm excited to read more of Campbell's works and her website offers three free books if you sign up for her newsletter.
*the cat does not die and is not hurt
Danger's Kiss is an addictive romance that slowly builds because of close proximity. There is a good deal of violence in the novel and I'm not even sure if I mentioned every violent act in my content warnings. I loved the well developed romance between Desirée and Nicholas but I felt the plot wrapped up a bit too quickly in the end. This is a fun, steamy read that was free on Nook a few weeks ago and I'm glad I picked it up. I'm excited to read more of Campbell's works and her website offers three free books if you sign up for her newsletter.
*the cat does not die and is not hurt
July 21, 2019
Not bad
Desiree (no joke) is a beautiful young woman well skilled in the art of deception. After she is sold by her parents to a man who teaches her the ways of deception, pick pocketing, and gambling, the two move from town to town to avoid being caught. Desiree's companion is falsely accused of murder and sentenced to hang. Nicholas Grimshaw is the local lawman who is extremely compassionate when it comes to the interrogation and punishment of persons not adhering to the law. Together, they find love and their happily ever after in each other's arms. The characters are engaging and this is not a bad romance to curl up with during your free time.
Desiree (no joke) is a beautiful young woman well skilled in the art of deception. After she is sold by her parents to a man who teaches her the ways of deception, pick pocketing, and gambling, the two move from town to town to avoid being caught. Desiree's companion is falsely accused of murder and sentenced to hang. Nicholas Grimshaw is the local lawman who is extremely compassionate when it comes to the interrogation and punishment of persons not adhering to the law. Together, they find love and their happily ever after in each other's arms. The characters are engaging and this is not a bad romance to curl up with during your free time.
October 9, 2020
Loved this book. The twists, the characters, and passion kept me up all night reading til I would have to stop and go to sleep.
I've read sooooo many of your books, and I've truly enjoyed every one of them. I need to write them down so I don't miss any, especially the series!
My late husband's name was Duncan Stewart.. can't get much more Scottish named then that) so when I read his name in your books, I tend to smile and have many memories come back to me.
So I thank you for that!!!!!! :)
I'm off to find another of your books!
Stay safe and healthy
THANKS!
I've read sooooo many of your books, and I've truly enjoyed every one of them. I need to write them down so I don't miss any, especially the series!
My late husband's name was Duncan Stewart.. can't get much more Scottish named then that) so when I read his name in your books, I tend to smile and have many memories come back to me.
So I thank you for that!!!!!! :)
I'm off to find another of your books!
Stay safe and healthy
THANKS!
April 17, 2024
My rating: 4.5
Tropes: Historical - Enemies to Lovers - Suspense
Heat: 7/10
Emotion 7/10
Story: 7/10
Characters: 7/10
Interest: 7/10
POV: Dual
No Cheating - no ow/om sex
No Cliffhanger
"Danger's Kiss" is a good story with some suspense and nice characters.
What I did Like:
- Moth MCs
- The plot was interesting
- No unnecessary drama
- The author's writing style
What I did not Like:
- I would have preferred the end before the epilogue to be more.
Overall, i enjoyed the story. I have read more books from the author and to be honest i liked them a little more. However it was good.
Tropes: Historical - Enemies to Lovers - Suspense
Heat: 7/10
Emotion 7/10
Story: 7/10
Characters: 7/10
Interest: 7/10
POV: Dual
No Cheating - no ow/om sex
No Cliffhanger
"Danger's Kiss" is a good story with some suspense and nice characters.
What I did Like:
- Moth MCs
- The plot was interesting
- No unnecessary drama
- The author's writing style
What I did not Like:
- I would have preferred the end before the epilogue to be more.
Overall, i enjoyed the story. I have read more books from the author and to be honest i liked them a little more. However it was good.
December 10, 2022
3,5 stars
A lawman and a swindler are forced together in proximity. I LOVE these types of stories. And I always love the female characters Campbell writes, but there's always something lacking. The writing style doesn't really stick out to me, for better or for worse, but there's something that I cannot put my finger on that seems to be missing for me to really picture these characters and fall in love with them. On paper I should've loved this book, but the execution of it: it's almost it, but not quite.
A lawman and a swindler are forced together in proximity. I LOVE these types of stories. And I always love the female characters Campbell writes, but there's always something lacking. The writing style doesn't really stick out to me, for better or for worse, but there's something that I cannot put my finger on that seems to be missing for me to really picture these characters and fall in love with them. On paper I should've loved this book, but the execution of it: it's almost it, but not quite.
August 16, 2017
The Shire-reeve of Kent
Has a lot of things to learn about life and love and Desiree is just the thief to teach him!! This journey takes you into twists and turns and just about the time you just know how it's going to end Glynis Campbell throws you a curve you did not see coming!! Just one of the reasons she's one of my very favorite authors. If you haven't read any of her stories yet, this one will make you a fan of hers too!
Has a lot of things to learn about life and love and Desiree is just the thief to teach him!! This journey takes you into twists and turns and just about the time you just know how it's going to end Glynis Campbell throws you a curve you did not see coming!! Just one of the reasons she's one of my very favorite authors. If you haven't read any of her stories yet, this one will make you a fan of hers too!
October 4, 2017
I won this book from the author. I was required to give a favorable review. This was a great story about a lawman and his honor to keep a promise to man he had to put to the gallows and a young woman who was being taken care of by the old man. He had a key that he didn't know was very import to very rich woman. This was a great story about how you can be doing wrong and turn around and do right. I enjoyed every word.
May 10, 2020
A bit uneven, but a good story overall
Nicholas and Desiree make this novel go. Their love affair is a bit implausible but their characters are painted with a great deal of humor. I smiled a lot as I read. Even the predictable arch villain, the evil Philomena, is a cute caricature and always complaining when she has to dispatch someone to their heavenly reward. The setting and the story line are true to Medieval times, with a lot of period vocabulary to look up.
Nicholas and Desiree make this novel go. Their love affair is a bit implausible but their characters are painted with a great deal of humor. I smiled a lot as I read. Even the predictable arch villain, the evil Philomena, is a cute caricature and always complaining when she has to dispatch someone to their heavenly reward. The setting and the story line are true to Medieval times, with a lot of period vocabulary to look up.
June 3, 2021
4.25 stars.
This was a completely different type of romance and I really enjoyed it. I’ve read a few of Campbell’s books and either love them or hate them, and this was no exception.
It was sorta, almost, a gender-bent Robin Hood type story and that was such a unique plot. The interactions between the MCs was great and the romance was pretty well done.
My only complaint is the ending seemed rushed and too neatly tied up. If the author had his maybe 50 more pages it could have worked out a bit better.
All in all a super solid read.
This was a completely different type of romance and I really enjoyed it. I’ve read a few of Campbell’s books and either love them or hate them, and this was no exception.
It was sorta, almost, a gender-bent Robin Hood type story and that was such a unique plot. The interactions between the MCs was great and the romance was pretty well done.
My only complaint is the ending seemed rushed and too neatly tied up. If the author had his maybe 50 more pages it could have worked out a bit better.
All in all a super solid read.
June 27, 2023
This is an interesting book about the relationship between a lawman and a thief. Nicholas takes his job very seriously until he meets Desiree who is a criminal. Both of them begin to change as a result of knowing the other person. They become entangled in the local gentry’s plot to kill her husband and father-in-law. The reader sees no way out of their dilemma at the end of the book. A well developed plot with intriguing characters.
July 31, 2018
Wonderfully written! The story is unusual in that the characters are not the norm and their circumstances are definitely not what should have drawn them together, but oh how wonderfully they complement each other. The underlying intrigue adds to the story. My only wish was that the end was a tad longer.
June 13, 2019
Watch your coin,
Outlaw meets lawman in the most unusual way. Desiree has always been an outlaw, but when the Lawman, Nichols the right hand of the devil. When Nichols makes a promise to a man about to be hung to care for his “granddaughter” Nichols may have bit off more then he was prepared for with the lass.
Outlaw meets lawman in the most unusual way. Desiree has always been an outlaw, but when the Lawman, Nichols the right hand of the devil. When Nichols makes a promise to a man about to be hung to care for his “granddaughter” Nichols may have bit off more then he was prepared for with the lass.
May 24, 2020
Not what you expect
This was an adventure unlike any other I have read. I could not wait to find the time to finish reading the story as nothing seemed to go the way the characters wished. The ending is totally unexpected and explained beautifully. Thank you Ms Campbell for an entertaining read.
This was an adventure unlike any other I have read. I could not wait to find the time to finish reading the story as nothing seemed to go the way the characters wished. The ending is totally unexpected and explained beautifully. Thank you Ms Campbell for an entertaining read.
June 5, 2020
I loved this story. It was on my "to read" list for quite a while. I finally read it, and I wondered why I waited so long. Desiree and Nicholas are from opposites sides of the law but their attraction to one another is mutual. The weaving of the story has quirks, upsides, and downsides. The overall balance is good. I recommend this gem from Glynnis Campbell.
August 24, 2020
Such a clever story. At first I want sure if I would be into this one, but once the story was set up it really just rolled until the end! The heroine is brainy but an outlaw and the hero is brawny but so kind. They are truly a great match even if they take a few chapters of convincing. The big challenge at the end is so clever and well done. Glad I stuck around to see how this one would work out.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews