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Protecting The Crown #1
A Royal Marriage
Despite her protests, Princess Gisela, headstrong daughter of the Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne, must enter into a diplomatic marriage. Yet en route to her wedding, her ship is attacked and she's gravely injured. Rescued by a renowned healer, King John of Lydia, Gisela recuperates at his Mediterranean castle. The handsome, widowed ruler soon has her reevaluating her beliefs on love and marriage…but only if King John could be her groom. Their love is forbidden, and duty requires him to deliver her to her betrothed. Unless they can find a way to join their hearts�and kingdoms�with love, faith and honor.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
January 17, 2016
Author: Rachelle McCalla
Published by: Love Inspired
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Book Blog For: GMTA
Series #1
Rating: 5
Review:
"Royal Marriage" by Rachelle McCalla..Protecting the Crown Book # 1 setting from Castlehead, Lydia... was a good read with plenty of 'action, drama, romance and spies' that would take you to that 'magical time in history of Kings, Princesses, castles and knights in battles.
How does this story start.....
The novel will definitely draw you into this story of "Princess Gisela would honor the wishes of her father and that was to marry an Illyrian even though her heart tells her something different. On her way to be betrothed and she is injured and near death. If she dies war could break out. They stop in Lydia as King John is known to be a healer. Gisela struggles between the feelings she has towards King John and knowing she is promised to Prince Warrick and that much in the political realm depends upon their union. Illyrian’s had killed King John’s father four years ago and now he must surrender this beautiful princess to those violent men as well. After his wife’s death three years earlier, John had sworn never to love again or chance losing a woman while trying for an heir." Has God sent Gisela into his life to shown him that he can love again? It was a beautiful moment when you could see how King John's heart was so wounded yet he holds to his 'strong faith in God. "Royal Marriage" was a beautiful told story of a 'Christian Historical Romance.' And this is where I will say you must pick up "Royal Marriage" to see how this will all come out. Be ready for a great suspense, fantastic historical and enjoyable read. Would I recommend? Yes! You will definitely be left only wanting the next series...book # 2 Defending the Duchess (Love Inspired Suspense).
Published by: Love Inspired
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Book Blog For: GMTA
Series #1
Rating: 5
Review:
"Royal Marriage" by Rachelle McCalla..Protecting the Crown Book # 1 setting from Castlehead, Lydia... was a good read with plenty of 'action, drama, romance and spies' that would take you to that 'magical time in history of Kings, Princesses, castles and knights in battles.
How does this story start.....
The novel will definitely draw you into this story of "Princess Gisela would honor the wishes of her father and that was to marry an Illyrian even though her heart tells her something different. On her way to be betrothed and she is injured and near death. If she dies war could break out. They stop in Lydia as King John is known to be a healer. Gisela struggles between the feelings she has towards King John and knowing she is promised to Prince Warrick and that much in the political realm depends upon their union. Illyrian’s had killed King John’s father four years ago and now he must surrender this beautiful princess to those violent men as well. After his wife’s death three years earlier, John had sworn never to love again or chance losing a woman while trying for an heir." Has God sent Gisela into his life to shown him that he can love again? It was a beautiful moment when you could see how King John's heart was so wounded yet he holds to his 'strong faith in God. "Royal Marriage" was a beautiful told story of a 'Christian Historical Romance.' And this is where I will say you must pick up "Royal Marriage" to see how this will all come out. Be ready for a great suspense, fantastic historical and enjoyable read. Would I recommend? Yes! You will definitely be left only wanting the next series...book # 2 Defending the Duchess (Love Inspired Suspense).
January 7, 2013
A Royal Marriage by Rachelle McCalla
4/5 stars
Source: Netgalley
There is just nothing like a novel that opens with drama and doesn’t stop until the very last word. A Royal Marriage opens with King John of Lydia warily watching as a ship, flying the royal flags of the Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne, approaches his coast. Neither King John nor his advisors can think of a reason why the emperor or one of his envoys would be making an unplanned and unannounced stop in Lydia. What comes off the ship is surprise to all and sets in motion a series of events with the potential to cause two great nations, the Holy Roman Empire and the Byzantine Empire to wage vicious war against one another.
What comes off the ship is the lovey yet badly injured and on the verge of death, Princess Gisela who was, before her ship was attacked by Saracen pirates, on her way to meet her betrothed, an Illyrian prince. For King John this information is troubling on several levels: 1) his reputation for healing is well-known but Gisela’s injury is quite severe; 2) the herb needed to help Gisela is across the border and into enemy Illyrian territory and; 3) if Gisela dies both the Illyrians and Charlemagne are going to be very cranky. For King John, the peace his father’s life bought for Lydia and the protection of his citizens is paramount and the only possible way he can ensure the two is to save Gisela’s life. What John doesn’t count on is the strength and determination of Princess Gisela.
Gisela may be a princess from one of Europe’s most powerful courts but she is no shrinking violet. Despite her injury, Gisela is determined to minimize the risk to King John and his people. To this end, she rides with John to find the herb needed to heal her and discovers along the journey just how honorable and good the young king is. All seems to be going according to plan until John and Gisela inadvertently alert the Illyrians to their presence; from this point forward it is a race to avert war! During the flight back to the safety of Lydia’s castle, Gisela decides her place is by John’s side as he fights for the safety of his kingdom. Her ulterior motive? Gisela really, really has no interest in marrying an Illyrian prince especially as she begins to learn more about King John. As the plot unfolds many secrets and truths are revealed including why King John has refused to re-marry, how and why the Illyrians attacked and killed John’s father, who John’s head-strong younger sister is in love with, and how John and Gisela will navigate some incredibly tricky political waters in order to be together.
The bottom line: this loosely based on history novel is a fairly fast-paced read with a healthy dose of intrigue, romance, battle, and resolution. Gisela and John are both fine characters the reader can easily get behind and root for as Gisela is quick-thinking, capable, and determined and John is kind, intelligent, and compassionate. Gisela fits easily and comfortably into John’s world which allows her relationship with him to progress in a quick though believable way.
Throughout, John and Gisela are supported by a decent cast of minor characters who are sure to play a much larger role in future installments of this series. A Royal Marriage is a read which is quite easy to fall into and carries the reader smoothly through from beginning to end. There is plenty of action and intrigue mixed with romance which will keep lovers of all of the above interested , entertained, and turning pages quickly.
4/5 stars
Source: Netgalley
There is just nothing like a novel that opens with drama and doesn’t stop until the very last word. A Royal Marriage opens with King John of Lydia warily watching as a ship, flying the royal flags of the Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne, approaches his coast. Neither King John nor his advisors can think of a reason why the emperor or one of his envoys would be making an unplanned and unannounced stop in Lydia. What comes off the ship is surprise to all and sets in motion a series of events with the potential to cause two great nations, the Holy Roman Empire and the Byzantine Empire to wage vicious war against one another.
What comes off the ship is the lovey yet badly injured and on the verge of death, Princess Gisela who was, before her ship was attacked by Saracen pirates, on her way to meet her betrothed, an Illyrian prince. For King John this information is troubling on several levels: 1) his reputation for healing is well-known but Gisela’s injury is quite severe; 2) the herb needed to help Gisela is across the border and into enemy Illyrian territory and; 3) if Gisela dies both the Illyrians and Charlemagne are going to be very cranky. For King John, the peace his father’s life bought for Lydia and the protection of his citizens is paramount and the only possible way he can ensure the two is to save Gisela’s life. What John doesn’t count on is the strength and determination of Princess Gisela.
Gisela may be a princess from one of Europe’s most powerful courts but she is no shrinking violet. Despite her injury, Gisela is determined to minimize the risk to King John and his people. To this end, she rides with John to find the herb needed to heal her and discovers along the journey just how honorable and good the young king is. All seems to be going according to plan until John and Gisela inadvertently alert the Illyrians to their presence; from this point forward it is a race to avert war! During the flight back to the safety of Lydia’s castle, Gisela decides her place is by John’s side as he fights for the safety of his kingdom. Her ulterior motive? Gisela really, really has no interest in marrying an Illyrian prince especially as she begins to learn more about King John. As the plot unfolds many secrets and truths are revealed including why King John has refused to re-marry, how and why the Illyrians attacked and killed John’s father, who John’s head-strong younger sister is in love with, and how John and Gisela will navigate some incredibly tricky political waters in order to be together.
The bottom line: this loosely based on history novel is a fairly fast-paced read with a healthy dose of intrigue, romance, battle, and resolution. Gisela and John are both fine characters the reader can easily get behind and root for as Gisela is quick-thinking, capable, and determined and John is kind, intelligent, and compassionate. Gisela fits easily and comfortably into John’s world which allows her relationship with him to progress in a quick though believable way.
Throughout, John and Gisela are supported by a decent cast of minor characters who are sure to play a much larger role in future installments of this series. A Royal Marriage is a read which is quite easy to fall into and carries the reader smoothly through from beginning to end. There is plenty of action and intrigue mixed with romance which will keep lovers of all of the above interested , entertained, and turning pages quickly.
March 25, 2013
4 STARS
Protecting the Crown series
The history part I really did not know much about it at all. I liked the plot. The characters and that it is a clean read.
I take for granted that if you want to read the bible it is easy to do. I have many copies in out house and even on my kindle.
Only the very rich would have a book of scripture like Acts not the whole bible.
Princess Gisela is going to be married as part of a contract to keep the peace and the Christian church together and not split apart. Her ship is attacked and she is wounded. The Captain was killed. The now acting captain had heard of the healer King John and sailed to his island than continue on to her intended.
King John sees that the Princess will die if she does not get a certain herb on her eye before evening. There is no time to ride to where the herb is and bring it back to her. Also the lands were taken away from his kingdom and could cause a war if they are discovered.
King John also realizes that if he does not try and the Princess Gisela who's father is Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne dies will also cause a war maybe on two fronts. So King John takes just the Princess into the danger area and puts the herbs on her eyes. She is burning up and both eyes swollen badly.
They make it safely out but they are seen. Princess Gisela finds out that the King's father death was by her intended groom's family and refuses to carry on the marriage till it is settled. She sends her ship back to her father and lets him know of the deciet that is going on.
King John lost his wife in childbirth and does not intend to remarry. He plans his brother Luke to be his heir. Prince
Luke is watching the border. He wants to advenge his fathers death. He is taken hostage.
Gisela has developed feelings for King John but she knows that she has to continue the marriage her father made for lasting peace.
Gisela owes her life to King John and feels like the coming war is her fault.
There is lots of action,drama,history,romance,spies that make it a fun read. I look forward to reading more from Rachelle McCalla in the future.
I was given this ebook to read and asked to give honest review of it by Netgalley.
Published November 27th 2012 by Love Inspired Harlequin 288 pages ISBN:0373829442
Discription below taken off of Goodreads
Despite her protests, Princess Gisela, headstrong daughter of the Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne, must enter into a diplomatic marriage. Yet en route to her wedding, her ship is attacked and she's gravely injured. Rescued by a renowned healer, King John of Lydia, Gisela recuperates at his Mediterranean castle. The handsome, widowed ruler soon has her reevaluating her beliefs on love and marriage…but only if King John could be her groom. Their love is forbidden, and duty requires him to deliver her to her betrothed. Unless they can find a way to join their hearts—and kingdoms—with love, faith and honor.
Protecting the Crown series
The history part I really did not know much about it at all. I liked the plot. The characters and that it is a clean read.
I take for granted that if you want to read the bible it is easy to do. I have many copies in out house and even on my kindle.
Only the very rich would have a book of scripture like Acts not the whole bible.
Princess Gisela is going to be married as part of a contract to keep the peace and the Christian church together and not split apart. Her ship is attacked and she is wounded. The Captain was killed. The now acting captain had heard of the healer King John and sailed to his island than continue on to her intended.
King John sees that the Princess will die if she does not get a certain herb on her eye before evening. There is no time to ride to where the herb is and bring it back to her. Also the lands were taken away from his kingdom and could cause a war if they are discovered.
King John also realizes that if he does not try and the Princess Gisela who's father is Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne dies will also cause a war maybe on two fronts. So King John takes just the Princess into the danger area and puts the herbs on her eyes. She is burning up and both eyes swollen badly.
They make it safely out but they are seen. Princess Gisela finds out that the King's father death was by her intended groom's family and refuses to carry on the marriage till it is settled. She sends her ship back to her father and lets him know of the deciet that is going on.
King John lost his wife in childbirth and does not intend to remarry. He plans his brother Luke to be his heir. Prince
Luke is watching the border. He wants to advenge his fathers death. He is taken hostage.
Gisela has developed feelings for King John but she knows that she has to continue the marriage her father made for lasting peace.
Gisela owes her life to King John and feels like the coming war is her fault.
There is lots of action,drama,history,romance,spies that make it a fun read. I look forward to reading more from Rachelle McCalla in the future.
I was given this ebook to read and asked to give honest review of it by Netgalley.
Published November 27th 2012 by Love Inspired Harlequin 288 pages ISBN:0373829442
Discription below taken off of Goodreads
Despite her protests, Princess Gisela, headstrong daughter of the Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne, must enter into a diplomatic marriage. Yet en route to her wedding, her ship is attacked and she's gravely injured. Rescued by a renowned healer, King John of Lydia, Gisela recuperates at his Mediterranean castle. The handsome, widowed ruler soon has her reevaluating her beliefs on love and marriage…but only if King John could be her groom. Their love is forbidden, and duty requires him to deliver her to her betrothed. Unless they can find a way to join their hearts—and kingdoms—with love, faith and honor.
January 16, 2016
A Royal Marriage by Rachelle McCalla
Protecting the Crown Book 1
Castlehead, Lydia, A.D. 801
Princess Gisela, daughter of the Emperor Charlemagne, was to marry an Illyrian. Their ship is attacked on the way to her betrothed and she is injured and near death. If she dies war could break out. They stop in Lydia as King John is known to be a healer. Gisela struggles between the feelings she has towards King John and knowing she is promised to Prince Warrick and that much in the political realm depends upon their union.
Illyrian’s had killed King John’s father four years ago and now he must surrender this beautiful princess to those violent men as well. After his wife’s death three years earlier, John had sworn never to love again or chance losing a woman while trying for an heir. Has God sent this woman into his life to show him he could love again? Only she would be the woman he wants and no other yet duty calls and he must answer.
Rachelle continues to weave an enthralling tale. Going backwards in time from her Reclaiming the Crown series she now goes back in time. Introducing new and exciting characters to build this new series on. King John, a man who has known sorrow and felt failure. A healer who could not save his mother nor his wife and he had watched his father die. Prince Luke, a headstrong young man who wants to take back the Lydia lands they have lost. Prince Mark, a younger brother. Princess Elizabette ‘Bette’ the youngest and only daughter. I am looking forward to this new series and after reading A Royal Marriage I have no doubts each following book will be a new exciting adventure as well.
**Received through NetGalley for review
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...#
Protecting the Crown Book 1
Castlehead, Lydia, A.D. 801
Princess Gisela, daughter of the Emperor Charlemagne, was to marry an Illyrian. Their ship is attacked on the way to her betrothed and she is injured and near death. If she dies war could break out. They stop in Lydia as King John is known to be a healer. Gisela struggles between the feelings she has towards King John and knowing she is promised to Prince Warrick and that much in the political realm depends upon their union.
Illyrian’s had killed King John’s father four years ago and now he must surrender this beautiful princess to those violent men as well. After his wife’s death three years earlier, John had sworn never to love again or chance losing a woman while trying for an heir. Has God sent this woman into his life to show him he could love again? Only she would be the woman he wants and no other yet duty calls and he must answer.
Rachelle continues to weave an enthralling tale. Going backwards in time from her Reclaiming the Crown series she now goes back in time. Introducing new and exciting characters to build this new series on. King John, a man who has known sorrow and felt failure. A healer who could not save his mother nor his wife and he had watched his father die. Prince Luke, a headstrong young man who wants to take back the Lydia lands they have lost. Prince Mark, a younger brother. Princess Elizabette ‘Bette’ the youngest and only daughter. I am looking forward to this new series and after reading A Royal Marriage I have no doubts each following book will be a new exciting adventure as well.
**Received through NetGalley for review
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...#
February 13, 2013
Review on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/R1FMTIE9...
Review on my blog (to be posted 2/16): http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
I read four of Rachelle McCalla's books prior to A Royal Marriage (her Reclaiming the Crown series). I loved each of them, so I knew she wrote great suspense books. Well, she also writes fantastic historical novels... A Royal Marriage proves that!
I loved the characters. My favorites were King John and Princess Gisela. I also loved Prince Luke from the few scenes he was in and I look forward to reading his book whenever it releases.
A Royal Marriage starts off with a bang! Princess Gisela is injured and on the brink of death. She and King John must make a dangerous journey in order for her to even have a chance of surviving. My attention was grabbed from the first chapter.
Even though A Royal Marriage is a historical novel, there was still quite a few suspenseful scenes and even some traitors/spies! I loved this aspect in the story. Made for an entertaining read.
Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable read. I completely loved it and can hardly wait to read book two, Defending the Duchess (Love Inspired Suspense), which releases next month! I loved getting to learn the background story to the Reclaiming the Crown series and the country of Lydia. I recommend A Royal Marriage if you enjoy historical reads with some romance and suspense. :)
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
Review on my blog (to be posted 2/16): http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
I read four of Rachelle McCalla's books prior to A Royal Marriage (her Reclaiming the Crown series). I loved each of them, so I knew she wrote great suspense books. Well, she also writes fantastic historical novels... A Royal Marriage proves that!
I loved the characters. My favorites were King John and Princess Gisela. I also loved Prince Luke from the few scenes he was in and I look forward to reading his book whenever it releases.
A Royal Marriage starts off with a bang! Princess Gisela is injured and on the brink of death. She and King John must make a dangerous journey in order for her to even have a chance of surviving. My attention was grabbed from the first chapter.
Even though A Royal Marriage is a historical novel, there was still quite a few suspenseful scenes and even some traitors/spies! I loved this aspect in the story. Made for an entertaining read.
Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable read. I completely loved it and can hardly wait to read book two, Defending the Duchess (Love Inspired Suspense), which releases next month! I loved getting to learn the background story to the Reclaiming the Crown series and the country of Lydia. I recommend A Royal Marriage if you enjoy historical reads with some romance and suspense. :)
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
December 22, 2012
Princess Gisela is on her way to her future husband(diplomatic arranged marriage) when the ship she is traveling on is attacked and she is gravely injured. The crew of the ship know of King John of Lydia and his healing ways so they set course and arrive with only hours left before Princess Gisela might die. The only way to save her is to apply a special herb but its not easy to get and is on enemy land. As King John fights to keep the Princess alive he also brings possible war to his people.
As the Princess begins to heal from her wound she finds herself falling for the handsome king but he is off limits. Can she help him save his country with out losing her heart?
What I liked: I don’t normally read books set in this time period but I am glad I read this one. I really liked both the King and Princess. I found myself really hoping they could find a way to be together. The storyline was quite interesting and reading about how a war worked back then was fascinating. It was very easy to get drawn into this time period in history.
What I did not like: Since I don’t read a lot of this time period I felt lost at time trying to understand how things worked with royalty, wars etc.
Over all I really liked this book and am looking forward to the next book which sounds like it will be about the Kings brother. If you like books set in this time period your going to love it and if you don’t like this era this book just might change your mind!
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/1...
As the Princess begins to heal from her wound she finds herself falling for the handsome king but he is off limits. Can she help him save his country with out losing her heart?
What I liked: I don’t normally read books set in this time period but I am glad I read this one. I really liked both the King and Princess. I found myself really hoping they could find a way to be together. The storyline was quite interesting and reading about how a war worked back then was fascinating. It was very easy to get drawn into this time period in history.
What I did not like: Since I don’t read a lot of this time period I felt lost at time trying to understand how things worked with royalty, wars etc.
Over all I really liked this book and am looking forward to the next book which sounds like it will be about the Kings brother. If you like books set in this time period your going to love it and if you don’t like this era this book just might change your mind!
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/1...
November 29, 2012
A Royal Marriage
By Rachelle McCalla
On her way to her wedding Princess Gisela’s ship is attacked by pirates and she is gravely injured helping her men defend the ship. Her men rush her to King John of Lydia who is a renowned healer in the hopes that he will be able to save her, but when they finally arrive the princess’s injury has become life threatening. Through determination and prayer King John is able to use the knowledge he has of herbs to save her life, but when Princess Gisela was brought to his castle it may be the catalyst to a war.
I started reading the love inspired novels when I was twelve, as I had become a romance fan and my mother didn’t want me reading something inappropriate. I fell in love with the Christian romance books fifteen years ago yet this is my first time reading one of the Historical versions. Rachelle McCalla has done a wonderful job in bringing to life 800 A.D. with action and romance what could go wrong? At times though Gisela is not what I would expect from a woman in this time period, she is highly knowledgeable in fighting, strategic maneuvers, and building. Though this does make the character truly interesting I am not quite sure it fits the time period, but then again I wasn’t there so how would I know? I did have a lot of fun reading this book, you can’t help but become wrapped up into the story.
For More Reviews be sure to visit my blogs at:
http://reflectionsofabookworm.wordpre...
http://bookwormrflects8.blogspot.com/
By Rachelle McCalla
On her way to her wedding Princess Gisela’s ship is attacked by pirates and she is gravely injured helping her men defend the ship. Her men rush her to King John of Lydia who is a renowned healer in the hopes that he will be able to save her, but when they finally arrive the princess’s injury has become life threatening. Through determination and prayer King John is able to use the knowledge he has of herbs to save her life, but when Princess Gisela was brought to his castle it may be the catalyst to a war.
I started reading the love inspired novels when I was twelve, as I had become a romance fan and my mother didn’t want me reading something inappropriate. I fell in love with the Christian romance books fifteen years ago yet this is my first time reading one of the Historical versions. Rachelle McCalla has done a wonderful job in bringing to life 800 A.D. with action and romance what could go wrong? At times though Gisela is not what I would expect from a woman in this time period, she is highly knowledgeable in fighting, strategic maneuvers, and building. Though this does make the character truly interesting I am not quite sure it fits the time period, but then again I wasn’t there so how would I know? I did have a lot of fun reading this book, you can’t help but become wrapped up into the story.
For More Reviews be sure to visit my blogs at:
http://reflectionsofabookworm.wordpre...
http://bookwormrflects8.blogspot.com/
November 12, 2013
When Princess Gisela, daughter of Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne, arrives injured at Lydia, King John is her only chance at survival. Trained as a healer, King John must risk his life to save Gisela's. What he did not realize was that he would also be risking his heart.
Princess Gisela and King John were characters I could feel for. Gisela is betrothed to a man she does not love. It is a political alliance. When she is injured and spends time healing at King John's castle, her heart begins to long for King John's love.
King John, on the other hand, has promised himself never to love again. He lost his wife in childbirth and carries enormous guilt over this. As he begins to fall in love with Gisela, he longs to share a life with her. Two things hold him back: the political repercussions that could unfold if he were to interfere with Gisela's arranged marriage and the fear that he could ever be the cause of another wife dying while trying to bear him an heir.
There is much more to this story - love, deceit, battle, political intrigue, secrets...the list goes on and on. I look forward to reading more from this author.
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
Princess Gisela and King John were characters I could feel for. Gisela is betrothed to a man she does not love. It is a political alliance. When she is injured and spends time healing at King John's castle, her heart begins to long for King John's love.
King John, on the other hand, has promised himself never to love again. He lost his wife in childbirth and carries enormous guilt over this. As he begins to fall in love with Gisela, he longs to share a life with her. Two things hold him back: the political repercussions that could unfold if he were to interfere with Gisela's arranged marriage and the fear that he could ever be the cause of another wife dying while trying to bear him an heir.
There is much more to this story - love, deceit, battle, political intrigue, secrets...the list goes on and on. I look forward to reading more from this author.
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
January 19, 2013
Princess Gisela was on her way to enter into a diplomatic marriage. However along the way her ship is attacked and she is gravely injured. Gisela is rescued by King John of Lydia. While recuperating at his beautiful castle Gisela starts to rethink her ideas about love and marriage. However with Gisela betrothed the growing love between King John and her is forbidden. They will have to find a way to unite the kingdom if they want to join their hearts.
This was the first book in Rachelle McCalla's newest series Protecting the Crown. Although the series and characters are new the setting is familiar set in the beautiful country of Lydia. This book and series is a prequel to Reclaiming the Crown series Rachelle wrote for Love Inspired Suspense a few years ago. If you loved that series you will love to see how the kingdom got started. I really loved the characters of John and Gisela. There is also some suspense along with the historical content which made the story flow well.
This was the first book in Rachelle McCalla's newest series Protecting the Crown. Although the series and characters are new the setting is familiar set in the beautiful country of Lydia. This book and series is a prequel to Reclaiming the Crown series Rachelle wrote for Love Inspired Suspense a few years ago. If you loved that series you will love to see how the kingdom got started. I really loved the characters of John and Gisela. There is also some suspense along with the historical content which made the story flow well.
October 15, 2012
First impressions: LOVED the setting and the premise - the historical world-building was spot-on, with just enough detail and only a few minor anachronisms.
I was really impressed with the presentation of Gisela as a strong, smart leader in a historically believable way. She was one of the best Harlequin heroines, and inspirational heroines, I've read so far.
But the insta-love romance was blah - no emotional conflicts, just external political intrigues. Neither the hero nor the heroine had any flaws to overcome; they were both perfectly perfect from start to finish. It would have been MUCH more compelling to have them at odds in the beginning, then slowly learn to respect and trust each other.
Scale back on the military maneuvers and focus on the relationship-building, and this would have been a five-star read. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
I was really impressed with the presentation of Gisela as a strong, smart leader in a historically believable way. She was one of the best Harlequin heroines, and inspirational heroines, I've read so far.
But the insta-love romance was blah - no emotional conflicts, just external political intrigues. Neither the hero nor the heroine had any flaws to overcome; they were both perfectly perfect from start to finish. It would have been MUCH more compelling to have them at odds in the beginning, then slowly learn to respect and trust each other.
Scale back on the military maneuvers and focus on the relationship-building, and this would have been a five-star read. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
December 14, 2012
Loved, loved, loved this book!!
I started reading A Royal Marriage at bedtime and it kept me awake until I was finished. :) I just love it when a book draws me in and takes me to that magical time in history of Kings, Princesses, castles and knights in battle. Princess Gisela is a beautiful heroine who intends to honor her fathers wishes for her even when her heart tells her to love King John of Lydia. I found myself drawn to the wounded heart of King John and his strong faith in God, as he tenderly cares for Princess Gisela.
I really loved A Royal Marriage and give it a 5 out of 5 stars.
I received this book from Harlequin Love Inspired Historical and Net Gallery for my honest review.I was not paid in any way to review this book.
I started reading A Royal Marriage at bedtime and it kept me awake until I was finished. :) I just love it when a book draws me in and takes me to that magical time in history of Kings, Princesses, castles and knights in battle. Princess Gisela is a beautiful heroine who intends to honor her fathers wishes for her even when her heart tells her to love King John of Lydia. I found myself drawn to the wounded heart of King John and his strong faith in God, as he tenderly cares for Princess Gisela.
I really loved A Royal Marriage and give it a 5 out of 5 stars.
I received this book from Harlequin Love Inspired Historical and Net Gallery for my honest review.I was not paid in any way to review this book.
July 3, 2013
I was super mad at myself for I left this book at my sister's last week. Only with about 50 pages to go! Had to wait a week to finish and it was driving me mad! ;)
I was pulled into this story from page one! I loved the setup, and also this time period was a new one for me, so it was quite refreshing. I loved the little Kingdom of Lydia, not to mention I am a sucker for books with princesses. ;) And Gisela was a Princess I could root for, loved her interaction with John, it was believable and just lovely! Plenty of adventure too!
I will surely be watching for books from this author, and more for this series especially! I am hooked! Can't wait to see these characters again and get to know the rest more thoroughly!
I was pulled into this story from page one! I loved the setup, and also this time period was a new one for me, so it was quite refreshing. I loved the little Kingdom of Lydia, not to mention I am a sucker for books with princesses. ;) And Gisela was a Princess I could root for, loved her interaction with John, it was believable and just lovely! Plenty of adventure too!
I will surely be watching for books from this author, and more for this series especially! I am hooked! Can't wait to see these characters again and get to know the rest more thoroughly!
December 23, 2012
The imaginary kingdom of Lydia had me enthralled from start to finish, as did the main characters, Gisele and John, and I would actually give it 4.5 stars. The historical details and the intrigue that eventually enters the story are fascinating. Some confusion remains in my mind as to whether one character is supposed to be trustworthy or not, but perhaps that is dealt with in the future volumes of the series, or I could just be difficult to convince.A Royal Marriageis the first book in a series, "Protecting the Crown", and I will definitely watch for the books that complete the series in the future.
April 23, 2013
E' la storia di Gisela, figlia di Carlomagno (e realmente esistita) e di John, re della Lidia, regno inesistente ma di biblica discendenza. Lidia, la venditrice di porpora? Oh, well.
Una storia che in sè non diventa mai superiore all'essere carina.
Probabilmente in America rientra nel genere letteratura cristiana, ma qui, in Italia, l'ho trovata...troppo ingenua e buonista.
Una storia forse che mi avrebbe affascinatata a 14/16 anni, ma non adesso che sono decisamente più grande e marcatamente più cinica.
Voto: 3 stelle
Si ringrazia NetGalley per la gentile preview.
Una storia che in sè non diventa mai superiore all'essere carina.
Probabilmente in America rientra nel genere letteratura cristiana, ma qui, in Italia, l'ho trovata...troppo ingenua e buonista.
Una storia forse che mi avrebbe affascinatata a 14/16 anni, ma non adesso che sono decisamente più grande e marcatamente più cinica.
Voto: 3 stelle
Si ringrazia NetGalley per la gentile preview.
December 12, 2012
I absolutely loved this book! It was so well written and kept me interested the entire time I was reading! The characters were believable, the story line was incredible, and the twists and turns made the story interesting and worth reading!! A must-read if you ask me! I'd give it ten stars if I could!! :)
November 11, 2012
This book was just ok to me. It seemed too predictable and not very realistic. It annoyed me how King John seemed to be so overly taken with Gisela's looks.
I don't particularly care for books set in this time period, so that may have influenced my rating of the book.
I don't particularly care for books set in this time period, so that may have influenced my rating of the book.
December 5, 2012
Twists, turns, and what do we do now? I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the others that are coming hereafter. I have enjoyed the Kingdom of Lydia and the fine people there. Hard to put this one down. Had to see how they would work around the issues that came up.
February 14, 2013
A Royal Marriage by rachelle McCalla
This is the second one I purchased for me because it was my birthday. Lots of action, love this book, and looking forward to reading the next in the series of Protecting the Crown about Luke.
This is the second one I purchased for me because it was my birthday. Lots of action, love this book, and looking forward to reading the next in the series of Protecting the Crown about Luke.
January 13, 2013
A good, heart wrenching read. You feel the desperation of their love. Def recommend.
February 14, 2013
This was a fabulous story. SOOOO romantic! Absolutely loved it!!!!!
May 5, 2013
Great book.
February 5, 2013
I enjoy the book.
June 15, 2017
"Dear Reader, ... I've taken care to make my story as historically accurate as possible..."
No, you most certainly have not.
I am getting really, really tired of Protestant authors projecting their modern practices onto non-Protestant characters of historical times. This gets really old! So, these characters are living in 9th century Christendom? I am sorry to have to be the one to tell you, but, THEY WOULD HAVE BEEN CATHOLIC! They would have thought like Catholics, worshiped like Catholics, and spoken like Catholics.
Thus, it was NOT "worship services" or even "services" that they'd have attended on Sunday or during the week, but MASS. Holy Mass, Mass, the Most Holy Mass, the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist, the Sacred Liturgy, the Sacred Liturgies - any of these terms would work! Catholics do NOT attend mere "services" or "worship services" on Sundays - "services" are things like Bible studies, lectures, or prayer meetings - the Mass is on a completely different level (read John 6).
At one point, the author even says, "after the readings and singing were over..." the crowd went to go eat. NO! Sorry. Absolutely not. It just doesn't work. Holy Mass is MUCH, MUCH more than mere "readings and singing." It is completely offensive to pretend otherwise or to project your own Protestant Sunday routine into the past. How about "after the Liturgy of the Eucharist..." or "after the Mass had ended..." or "after the Sacred Liturgies had ended..." or "after the final blessing from the priest..." This is not a praise and "worship" service with projectors and guitars that she went to, people, but MASS!
Finally, the author couldn't even bring herself to give the Catholics in her story a priest as a spiritual leader, so she wrote in a deacon! Really? That's the best you could do? Why oh why are Protestants so afraid of having genuinely authentic Catholic characters?!?!?!?!?!?!?! ugh.
No, you most certainly have not.
I am getting really, really tired of Protestant authors projecting their modern practices onto non-Protestant characters of historical times. This gets really old! So, these characters are living in 9th century Christendom? I am sorry to have to be the one to tell you, but, THEY WOULD HAVE BEEN CATHOLIC! They would have thought like Catholics, worshiped like Catholics, and spoken like Catholics.
Thus, it was NOT "worship services" or even "services" that they'd have attended on Sunday or during the week, but MASS. Holy Mass, Mass, the Most Holy Mass, the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist, the Sacred Liturgy, the Sacred Liturgies - any of these terms would work! Catholics do NOT attend mere "services" or "worship services" on Sundays - "services" are things like Bible studies, lectures, or prayer meetings - the Mass is on a completely different level (read John 6).
At one point, the author even says, "after the readings and singing were over..." the crowd went to go eat. NO! Sorry. Absolutely not. It just doesn't work. Holy Mass is MUCH, MUCH more than mere "readings and singing." It is completely offensive to pretend otherwise or to project your own Protestant Sunday routine into the past. How about "after the Liturgy of the Eucharist..." or "after the Mass had ended..." or "after the Sacred Liturgies had ended..." or "after the final blessing from the priest..." This is not a praise and "worship" service with projectors and guitars that she went to, people, but MASS!
Finally, the author couldn't even bring herself to give the Catholics in her story a priest as a spiritual leader, so she wrote in a deacon! Really? That's the best you could do? Why oh why are Protestants so afraid of having genuinely authentic Catholic characters?!?!?!?!?!?!?! ugh.
November 19, 2019
Even though this was a suspenseful story it was an easy read and I quite enjoyed it.
She is the daughter of Constantine and betrothed to an Illyan prince. On the way to her prince her ship is attacked by Saracens and she is wounded, her wound festering. The ship limps into the port of Lydia and it's king, a healer, helps her. We all know how a beautiful princess and a handsome king end up! LOL! Getting there is a bit tough and a war on the horizon hinders things, but we do get our HEA ending!
This is a clean read.
She is the daughter of Constantine and betrothed to an Illyan prince. On the way to her prince her ship is attacked by Saracens and she is wounded, her wound festering. The ship limps into the port of Lydia and it's king, a healer, helps her. We all know how a beautiful princess and a handsome king end up! LOL! Getting there is a bit tough and a war on the horizon hinders things, but we do get our HEA ending!
This is a clean read.
December 12, 2023
Gisela - Princess and daughter of the Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne, her ship is attacked in route to her wedding and she is injured
John - King of Lydia, renowned healer, allows Gisela to recuperate at his Mediterranean castle.
John - King of Lydia, renowned healer, allows Gisela to recuperate at his Mediterranean castle.
November 12, 2019
Entertaining
I really enjoyed this story. I love historical fiction and this book is well written and engaging. I loved the character Gisela.
I really enjoyed this story. I love historical fiction and this book is well written and engaging. I loved the character Gisela.
February 25, 2021
LOVED THIS BOOK!!!!
October 18, 2016
I loved this book! The only critique I have is that some of the love plot seemed a little unrealistic, but I still enjoyed it!
March 11, 2017
Loved it. Could not put it down
July 26, 2016
I went into A Royal Marriage thinking I would love it as it is a historical and set in the Middle Ages, a time I've been coming to recently read more of and have been loving. However, I wasn't very far into this book before it started to grate on my nerves.
The first time Gisela and John meet she is so near death that she has less than a day to live unless she gets a specific treatment in time, but she doesn't come across as that ill except to be a little weak. Then her recovery is so quick it's really unbelievable.
It was annoying how many times Gisela's looks were brought up, especially when John is thinking this right when he first meets her and she's injured...with her eyes swollen shut and a gash on her face. I know this should be sweet, but it just came across as weird to me that that was his first thought of her.
This book just wasn't for me. I haven't read any of this author's other books, and am not sure if I will, but if you have and enjoyed them maybe you'd enjoy reading A Royal Marriage.
The first time Gisela and John meet she is so near death that she has less than a day to live unless she gets a specific treatment in time, but she doesn't come across as that ill except to be a little weak. Then her recovery is so quick it's really unbelievable.
It was annoying how many times Gisela's looks were brought up, especially when John is thinking this right when he first meets her and she's injured...with her eyes swollen shut and a gash on her face. I know this should be sweet, but it just came across as weird to me that that was his first thought of her.
This book just wasn't for me. I haven't read any of this author's other books, and am not sure if I will, but if you have and enjoyed them maybe you'd enjoy reading A Royal Marriage.
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