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The Lady Knights of Barony #1-3
The Lady Knights of Barony
Three women. Three stories. One Sisterhood. With the war in Barony at an end, peace reigns and rebuilding efforts continue beneath the steady vigilance of King Serge and Queen Isabelle. The lady knights have returned home, unchanged by new titles and lands. But with a rash of kidnappings spreading across the province, the lady knights will find themselves torn apart by the machinations of a mad man. Ava Longley, captain of the lady knights, never expected to become the target of an obsessed murderous madman. When a kidnapper is sent to abduct her, Ava sees it as the perfect opportunity to bring the mastermind to justice. To Julian Vincent, Lady Longley is no more than the means to an end. However, when sparks fly between them, Julian is faced with an impossible decision. After being sold into slavery by her king and washing up onto the shore of Cardenas, the friendless African Amazon, Mudiwa Akua, was taken in by Barony's female soldier's regiment. When her tranquil existence is disturbed and she finds herself on a ship bound for the exotic island of Martinique, Mudiwa faces certain death and possible enslavement for the second time in her life, dredging up ghosts of a past she had long thought forgotten. When planter Isaac Prideux comes upon a mysterious African woman, beaten and half-dead, he takes it upon himself to care for her. He never imagined doing so would shake up his monotonous life so completely. After the highly honored title of onna bugeisha?the feminine equivalent of a samurai?begins to lose its power in Japan, Hanako Kiyomi sees no choice but to flee. But when her deserted husband comes searching for her, Hanako escapes him the only way she knows how: marriage in name only to a stranger. Lord Garrick Overton has always admired the cool, stoic Hanako from afar. Marriage to the woman he's desired for years seems like a good idea; until she proposes the marriage be in name only. As he sets out to win her heart, he faces not only a tough task but a begrudged man that will stop at nothing to win back what he has lost. Their courage will be tried. Their hearts will be put to the test. Can three headstrong women maintain their independent natures while surrendering to love?
- GenresRomance
342 pages, Paperback
First published July 30, 2012
46 people are currently reading
145 people want to read
About the author
Elise Marion
62 books322 followersElise Marion is a lover books and has a special place in her heart for sweet and sensual romance. Writing about love across all walks of life is her passion, as is reaching people through the written word. The Army wife and stay-at-home mother of two spends most of her time taking care of her children. Her second job includes writing stories about characters that people can fall in love with. When the Texas native isn’t caring for her family or writing, you can usually find her with her nose in a book, singing loudly, or cooking up something new in the kitchen.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
April 11, 2017
Three novellas seem daunting in one book, but each continue the main story and have a unique backstory which gives depth to the characters.
Read full review in the 2012 Holiday issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2012 Holiday issue of InD’tale Magazine.
May 9, 2019
Three women. Three stories. One Sisterhood.
With the war in Barony at an end, peace reigns. The lady knights have returned home, unchanged by new titles and lands
Book 1: The Hellion
Ava Longley, captain of the lady knights, never expected to become the target of a murderous madman. When a kidnapper is sent to abduct her, she sees it as the perfect opportunity to bring the mastermind to justice. To mercenary Julian Vincent, Lady Longley is no more than the means to an end. However, when sparks fly between them, Julian is faced with an impossible decision.
Book 2: Beloved
After being sold into slavery by her king and husband, washing up onto the shore of Cardenas, the friendless African Amazon, Mudiwa Akua, was taken in by Barony’s female soldier’s regiment. When her her captain is kidnapped she finds herself captured & on a ship bound for the exotic island of Martinique, Mudiwa faces certain death and possible enslavement for the second time in her life, dredging up ghosts of a past she’d long thought forgotten. When planter Isaac Prideux's foreman Femi comes upon her, beaten and half-dead, he takes it upon himself to take her to the plantation where Isaac decides to care for her. He never imagines doing so will shake up his monotonous life so completely.
Book 3: The Accidental Groom
Hanako Kiyomi is forced to marry but drugs her husband on their wedding night & flees. But, when she travels to Martinique to find Mudiwa who should she spy but her deserted husband who then follows her back to Barony, She escapes him the only way she knows how: marriage to a stranger. Lord Garrick Overton has always admired the cool, stoic Hanako from afar. Marriage to the woman he’s desired for years seems like a good idea; until she proposes the marriage be in name only.
Three page turning novellas. This is the third book in the series & yes it could easily be read on its own but the series is very good & a different slant on nineteenth century romance. I've loved the first two books & loved this book too. We met the three female warriors in the previous book & I was intrigued to read their stories & they didn’t disappoint. Well written, well paced stories & I read each in a sitting. I love it that the author has created fictional countries so she can apply her own rules. The characters are well portrayed. There is an unresolved issue, which started in the first book & I eagerly await the rest of the series for it to be resolved
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
With the war in Barony at an end, peace reigns. The lady knights have returned home, unchanged by new titles and lands
Book 1: The Hellion
Ava Longley, captain of the lady knights, never expected to become the target of a murderous madman. When a kidnapper is sent to abduct her, she sees it as the perfect opportunity to bring the mastermind to justice. To mercenary Julian Vincent, Lady Longley is no more than the means to an end. However, when sparks fly between them, Julian is faced with an impossible decision.
Book 2: Beloved
After being sold into slavery by her king and husband, washing up onto the shore of Cardenas, the friendless African Amazon, Mudiwa Akua, was taken in by Barony’s female soldier’s regiment. When her her captain is kidnapped she finds herself captured & on a ship bound for the exotic island of Martinique, Mudiwa faces certain death and possible enslavement for the second time in her life, dredging up ghosts of a past she’d long thought forgotten. When planter Isaac Prideux's foreman Femi comes upon her, beaten and half-dead, he takes it upon himself to take her to the plantation where Isaac decides to care for her. He never imagines doing so will shake up his monotonous life so completely.
Book 3: The Accidental Groom
Hanako Kiyomi is forced to marry but drugs her husband on their wedding night & flees. But, when she travels to Martinique to find Mudiwa who should she spy but her deserted husband who then follows her back to Barony, She escapes him the only way she knows how: marriage to a stranger. Lord Garrick Overton has always admired the cool, stoic Hanako from afar. Marriage to the woman he’s desired for years seems like a good idea; until she proposes the marriage be in name only.
Three page turning novellas. This is the third book in the series & yes it could easily be read on its own but the series is very good & a different slant on nineteenth century romance. I've loved the first two books & loved this book too. We met the three female warriors in the previous book & I was intrigued to read their stories & they didn’t disappoint. Well written, well paced stories & I read each in a sitting. I love it that the author has created fictional countries so she can apply her own rules. The characters are well portrayed. There is an unresolved issue, which started in the first book & I eagerly await the rest of the series for it to be resolved
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
April 11, 2017
I was and am still EXTREMELY happy with the direction Elise went with The Lady Knights of Barony. I loved them when they were introduced in the Kings of Cardenas series and love them even more after reading the three stories in this book! Each story in this book is an exciting, gripping and amazing adventure of love, extreme courage and completion to certain chapters in each woman’s life. Any reader out there that enjoys great female heroines with strength to admire, touching romance and tons of excitement will love reading The Lady Knights of Barony.
Book 1- Hellion- This story grabbed at me from the start. The introduction to Ava was a very emotional time. So much love, devotion and even pain. As it continues on we see the woman Ava has grown into and WOW she’s one kick butt heroine that I’m glad to have gotten to know (so to speak). She’s intelligent, strong, beautiful, loyal and a natural born leader. She finally gets to experience what she’s only heard from others when it comes to real love, but not without many fights and obstacles that make way in her path. It (love) has a tight hold on her and the way it comes to be is quite a story that all will enjoy :)
Book 2- Beloved- This book continues right from where Hellion left off. It first started with Mudiwa’s past, what brought her to be the strong, brave female warrior she is now, then right into her current situation as a madman’s captive. Mudiwa’s been through so much throughout her life, much of it heart breaking, but she continues to be strong and not give up. This woman deserves every single bit of happiness that comes her way 10 fold!
Book 3- The Accidental Groom- In this portion of the book we are given a look into Hanako’s past and what brought her where she is in the present. She is another woman that is a special lady and has been though a ton of unwanted and undeserved situations but has still held true and strong to her beliefs and her ways as a warrior. Having chosen to leave a situation she had no say over to escape a fate she wants no part of, Hanako flees her homeland in search of freedom and peace of mind and eventually finds her current place with other woman like her and they become a family to her, a band of sisters that are just as dangerous as any men! What happens from there is fun, sad and exciting. Hanako gets much of what she never expected, nor thought she’d ever desire.
I truly love and admire all the woman of Barony and hope to see more of them in the future I was left wanting more of these female warriors! Actually all of the characters within (including the bad guys) where great and each added to the story in the most perfect way that I've learned Elise Marion has an amazing talent of doing.
This book contains some situations of rape and I recommend to those that are sensitive to the subject to proceed with caution.
Book 1- Hellion- This story grabbed at me from the start. The introduction to Ava was a very emotional time. So much love, devotion and even pain. As it continues on we see the woman Ava has grown into and WOW she’s one kick butt heroine that I’m glad to have gotten to know (so to speak). She’s intelligent, strong, beautiful, loyal and a natural born leader. She finally gets to experience what she’s only heard from others when it comes to real love, but not without many fights and obstacles that make way in her path. It (love) has a tight hold on her and the way it comes to be is quite a story that all will enjoy :)
Book 2- Beloved- This book continues right from where Hellion left off. It first started with Mudiwa’s past, what brought her to be the strong, brave female warrior she is now, then right into her current situation as a madman’s captive. Mudiwa’s been through so much throughout her life, much of it heart breaking, but she continues to be strong and not give up. This woman deserves every single bit of happiness that comes her way 10 fold!
Book 3- The Accidental Groom- In this portion of the book we are given a look into Hanako’s past and what brought her where she is in the present. She is another woman that is a special lady and has been though a ton of unwanted and undeserved situations but has still held true and strong to her beliefs and her ways as a warrior. Having chosen to leave a situation she had no say over to escape a fate she wants no part of, Hanako flees her homeland in search of freedom and peace of mind and eventually finds her current place with other woman like her and they become a family to her, a band of sisters that are just as dangerous as any men! What happens from there is fun, sad and exciting. Hanako gets much of what she never expected, nor thought she’d ever desire.
I truly love and admire all the woman of Barony and hope to see more of them in the future I was left wanting more of these female warriors! Actually all of the characters within (including the bad guys) where great and each added to the story in the most perfect way that I've learned Elise Marion has an amazing talent of doing.
This book contains some situations of rape and I recommend to those that are sensitive to the subject to proceed with caution.
April 11, 2017
In Marion's The Second Son, the second book of her Kings of Cardenas series, I enjoyed following the adventures of Barony's band of female warriors so much that I was thrilled when I heard Marion had written a trio of novellas, each featuring a lady-warrior-turned-knight. Each novella offers a glimpse into the heroine's courageous history, and provides a captivating balance of romance and adventure. The overarching story takes the reader on a dramatic journey from the kingdom of Barony, to the African desert, to a sugar cane plantation on the island of Martinique, to the exotic shores of Japan, and finally back to Barony.
Ava and Julian in The Hellion seemed destined to be enemies—especially since Julian lacks the honor Ava so highly prizes—but Marion handles their transformation from aggressors to lovers in a deft and genuine manner. Julian is the recipient of an unexpected gesture at the end of the story that brought me to tears.
In Beloved, Mudiwa's strength and compassion despite what she has suffered show Isaac what's lacking in his life. But keeping Mudiwa in his world—especially as his wife—would only bring her misery. The story is poignant and unpredictable, the prose lush with details of Mudiwa's regimented and lonely years in Africa, where she served as bodyguard to the king. Marion has a knack for enhancing the narrative with fascinating bits of research without slowing the story's pace.
She brings us further danger and heartbreak with The Accidental Groom. Hanako is determined not to fall in love with Garrick or his son and we can't help but sympathize, considering the seriousness of the boy's illness. Hanako's rejection of Garrick is painful to witness, as are Garrick's desperate attempts to understand her fears and win her heart. Marion certainly knows how to make her characters—and her readers—suffer (in the most gratifying ways, of course). A dramatic climax effectively demonstrates how Hanako and Garrick have become true partners.
Ava and Julian in The Hellion seemed destined to be enemies—especially since Julian lacks the honor Ava so highly prizes—but Marion handles their transformation from aggressors to lovers in a deft and genuine manner. Julian is the recipient of an unexpected gesture at the end of the story that brought me to tears.
In Beloved, Mudiwa's strength and compassion despite what she has suffered show Isaac what's lacking in his life. But keeping Mudiwa in his world—especially as his wife—would only bring her misery. The story is poignant and unpredictable, the prose lush with details of Mudiwa's regimented and lonely years in Africa, where she served as bodyguard to the king. Marion has a knack for enhancing the narrative with fascinating bits of research without slowing the story's pace.
She brings us further danger and heartbreak with The Accidental Groom. Hanako is determined not to fall in love with Garrick or his son and we can't help but sympathize, considering the seriousness of the boy's illness. Hanako's rejection of Garrick is painful to witness, as are Garrick's desperate attempts to understand her fears and win her heart. Marion certainly knows how to make her characters—and her readers—suffer (in the most gratifying ways, of course). A dramatic climax effectively demonstrates how Hanako and Garrick have become true partners.
August 20, 2019
Full Review posted on Book Lovin' Mamas
After reading all three stories, I feel connected to the Lady Knights of Barony even more. I loved reading about each story and how they all got their happily ever after. They all went through a rough time to get there, but they all managed to find the perfect man to help each one of them with their issues. The men that Elise wrote about in all three stories were all gentlemen. I think my favorite of all three though is Garrick. You'll have to find out why, by reading "The Lady Knights of Barony" and if you haven't read the first two books, then I suggest you do.
I highly recommend this book to historical romance readers out there and readers who have read the first two books to the Kings of Cardenas series. You'll fall in love with these Lady Knights just like I did.
I look forward to the next Kings of Cardenas book now since I got a glimpse of what happened to one particular character that I've wondered about for a while now. Elise Marion definitely will have me anxiously waiting for the next book now. =)
After reading all three stories, I feel connected to the Lady Knights of Barony even more. I loved reading about each story and how they all got their happily ever after. They all went through a rough time to get there, but they all managed to find the perfect man to help each one of them with their issues. The men that Elise wrote about in all three stories were all gentlemen. I think my favorite of all three though is Garrick. You'll have to find out why, by reading "The Lady Knights of Barony" and if you haven't read the first two books, then I suggest you do.
I highly recommend this book to historical romance readers out there and readers who have read the first two books to the Kings of Cardenas series. You'll fall in love with these Lady Knights just like I did.
I look forward to the next Kings of Cardenas book now since I got a glimpse of what happened to one particular character that I've wondered about for a while now. Elise Marion definitely will have me anxiously waiting for the next book now. =)
April 11, 2017
This book is three separate stories about three of the Lady Knights of Barony: Ava, Mudiwa and Hanako.
Each story takes us on a journey as we are introduced to each warrior, we learn of their difficult pasts that makes them the harden warriors they are today, and finally, see them find inner peace that only love can bring when they find their happily ever after.
With beautifully detailed writing, the author sucks you into the story with the ladies. At times my heart was racing, other times tears welled my eyes. It takes a special author that is capable of making emotions very real to a reader. When I reached the end of the book, I had tears in my eyes and a smile on my face. I was sad to have completed the book, yet so happy that I was able to experience it.
This is a great addition to the KOC series, and I can't wait for the next one to come out.
I was provided a copy of this book by the author for my fair and honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
Each story takes us on a journey as we are introduced to each warrior, we learn of their difficult pasts that makes them the harden warriors they are today, and finally, see them find inner peace that only love can bring when they find their happily ever after.
With beautifully detailed writing, the author sucks you into the story with the ladies. At times my heart was racing, other times tears welled my eyes. It takes a special author that is capable of making emotions very real to a reader. When I reached the end of the book, I had tears in my eyes and a smile on my face. I was sad to have completed the book, yet so happy that I was able to experience it.
This is a great addition to the KOC series, and I can't wait for the next one to come out.
I was provided a copy of this book by the author for my fair and honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
April 11, 2017
A story that showcases the essence of a woman, it's a testament to a woman's strength of character, loyalty, and honor.
With three main characters from different backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures, the author managed to show that there is a denominator that connects these women. It is the need and will to protect those important to them.
Each storyline is solid despite being anthologies. It intrigues the reader about the other characters yet does not depend too heavily on them. However, the twisting plot and the addition of an epilogue allows a seamless connection between these anthologies and the other novels.
Flames: 4
I was provided a copy of the book by BTS eMag for the purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review—all conclusions are my own responsibility.
With three main characters from different backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures, the author managed to show that there is a denominator that connects these women. It is the need and will to protect those important to them.
Each storyline is solid despite being anthologies. It intrigues the reader about the other characters yet does not depend too heavily on them. However, the twisting plot and the addition of an epilogue allows a seamless connection between these anthologies and the other novels.
Flames: 4
I was provided a copy of the book by BTS eMag for the purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review—all conclusions are my own responsibility.
April 11, 2017
Action, adventure and romance with three of the most awesome women warriors ever! Add to the fact that the women come from different backgrounds and stir well for a rollicking tale of loyalty, bravery and friendship. Ms. Marion hits it out of the park big time! Great for those who love kick-ass heroines with swords and sass and the alpha men who love them.
Update: So do not like the new cover. The previous cover was far better and more inclusive.
Update: So do not like the new cover. The previous cover was far better and more inclusive.
April 11, 2017
Great story of female warriors. Also enjoyed the historical background on warriors as well! Can't wait for the next installment!
March 22, 2014
My favorite...The Lady Knights finally achieve the respect in their skills!
May 17, 2019
Three great stories. I loved learning how each of the lady warriors came to be in Barony. Intrigue, angst, romance, and, of course, female warriors in battle. Did not want the book to end. I received an ARC of this book.
May 31, 2019
Elise Marion never disappoints. This novella has three stories of lady knights whom we meet first in the Awakened prince. I was impressed then by their courage n valour. Wanted to know their story. Ava 's story was particularly interesting. Overall a good read
June 3, 2019
The Lady Warriors of Barony: consists of three books the first book Is "The Hellion:” Ava Longley was the daughter of Magnus and Bella Longley and killed her first man in 1835 when the rebels attacked her village and managed to overcome her mother and her aunt and were writing them when her and her cousin Nell came out and kill them. Her mother was later killed by rebels when she was walking home alone and her father died of a broken heart. Ava and Nell along with other women of barony fought the rebels alongside the Queen Isabelle and later King Serge Rochester. In 1866 the King along with the Queen ended the evil and begins rebuilding the country. The people of Barony were living in peace and rebuilding their communities and homes. The king declared an end to the law against female knights in Barony, and he knighted five ladies: Ava, Nell, Hanako, Mudiwa, and of course Queen Isabelle. The four Lady Knights were given estates were the members of the nobility. Raiders had raided Trilor. Ava as Capt. the women's regiment told the ones that were eating with her in the Queen to suit up and meet her at the market the Queen's bodyguard was told by the Queen to suit up and meet her at the market and told Nell she would need a horse Nell being pregnant started to disagree with the Queen and the Queen told him that her husband had charged to protect her not to question her commands they Donald the wore costumes about their weapons jamming them into their posters she strapping a bow and quiver to her back to their backs and a dagger in their left boot ran for the horses which were saddled and ready and took off Trilor. Dorian Blake was the leader of the writers and was watching the community bar he had his men that the women did they had collected in a wagon and girls range from age 11 to about 40 and that it was time to move off the left half of his writers behind to find the approaching riders and told him to make sure they were not being trailed when they come to join them approximately 50 of his men rode off to fight they never joined him. Ava was kidnapped because Dorian Blake had seen her and wanted her. You have to read the rest of the book 'The Hellion’ to find out what happens to Ava and the rest of the Lady Knights. All three books are very good books...
Book number two:" Beloved:" is the story of Mudiwa. She is kidnapped by Dorian Blake and taken to Martinique. She starts trying to figure out a way to escape when Blake gets angry and decides to have a little fun with her between the two of them they nearly beat each other to death. Mudiwa escapes and then nearly dies on the street is picked up by Fermi and taken back to the Prideux plantation where she was cared for. To find out what else happens and what happened before you have to read the book a very good book...
Book 3: The Accidental Groom this is the story of Hanako Kiyomi. Her father forced her to marry him man. Her mother gave her a sleeping potion and she ran away from her husband. Both she and her husband ex-husband because the marriage had been an old because they had not consummated it were at Martinique and saw each other. He Came to Barony where he sold his wares to the Queen she invited him to a ball celebrating the engagement of one of the Lady Knights. Lady Nell Tibbs and her fiancé were the couple being honored. Lord Garrick Overton was to go with the king into the study to discuss some things Queen said that Mr. Taka had arrived and wanted the king to meet him so he sent Mr. Overton into his study. Lady Hanako came into the study terrified showed forward grasp the lapels of his waistcoat and told him to kiss her. The king and queen along with Mr. Taka and ask her to dance with him told him he was she was married. To find out whom she married and what happens you have to read the rest of the book and it is a good book...
Book number two:" Beloved:" is the story of Mudiwa. She is kidnapped by Dorian Blake and taken to Martinique. She starts trying to figure out a way to escape when Blake gets angry and decides to have a little fun with her between the two of them they nearly beat each other to death. Mudiwa escapes and then nearly dies on the street is picked up by Fermi and taken back to the Prideux plantation where she was cared for. To find out what else happens and what happened before you have to read the book a very good book...
Book 3: The Accidental Groom this is the story of Hanako Kiyomi. Her father forced her to marry him man. Her mother gave her a sleeping potion and she ran away from her husband. Both she and her husband ex-husband because the marriage had been an old because they had not consummated it were at Martinique and saw each other. He Came to Barony where he sold his wares to the Queen she invited him to a ball celebrating the engagement of one of the Lady Knights. Lady Nell Tibbs and her fiancé were the couple being honored. Lord Garrick Overton was to go with the king into the study to discuss some things Queen said that Mr. Taka had arrived and wanted the king to meet him so he sent Mr. Overton into his study. Lady Hanako came into the study terrified showed forward grasp the lapels of his waistcoat and told him to kiss her. The king and queen along with Mr. Taka and ask her to dance with him told him he was she was married. To find out whom she married and what happens you have to read the rest of the book and it is a good book...
July 12, 2019
I'm not sure where to start on this review. This book was pretty amazing to me, and I'm still wowed by it.
In this book you will meet the Lady Warriors of Barony who have been secondary characters in the other books set in Barony and Cardenas by the author Elise Marion. All I can say is, if Elise Marion writes about women again, I'm going to be first in line to buy the book.
In previous books, we heard a little about their history and how they came to be in Barony, but this book brings it all home and showcases three very strong, vibrant, and incredible women.
Character development is very, very important to me when I'm reading fiction. If I can't feel the character and if I can't come to like them and consider them a friend while I'm reading, it gets old really fast and the book becomes not so enjoyable. No problem with this book. These women all become someone you know and love before you finish reading and that is all thanks to the talent of Elise Marion. Without boring the reader with page after page of narrative, Elise manages to wend her way through their history, bring them into this book and write their story with nary a problem. I love the way this author writes. Her words aren't just written, they flow through the story. Occasionally, she sends me running to an online dictionary to find out what she already knew through her research and that endears her to me even more because I love learning new things about new places, even when those places are imaginary like Cardenas.
The second thing I love about this author is that when she creates a world where her characters can reside, she doesn't go half-way. She manages to describe it well enough that her readers can imagine being there, living there, and loving there.
And speaking of love. That's the other place where Elise hit a huge home run in this book. These were not ingenues looking for a husband, these women were warriors who had no interest in being married. They had their own property, they were strong and independent, and the men they fell in love with fit them perfectly. This book contains HEA's that were absolutely perfect for the women who moved through these pages.
Did you get that I liked the book yet? Or should I keep going? lol I read a LOT. And I try to review everything I read, good or bad. I demand that indie authors step up to the plate, write their best, put 110% into each book, and then allow the readers to enjoy them. Elise Marion does this perfectly. I highly recommend you buy this book, enjoy the warriors within its pages, then come right here and tell the world that you agree with me. A well written book!
In this book you will meet the Lady Warriors of Barony who have been secondary characters in the other books set in Barony and Cardenas by the author Elise Marion. All I can say is, if Elise Marion writes about women again, I'm going to be first in line to buy the book.
In previous books, we heard a little about their history and how they came to be in Barony, but this book brings it all home and showcases three very strong, vibrant, and incredible women.
Character development is very, very important to me when I'm reading fiction. If I can't feel the character and if I can't come to like them and consider them a friend while I'm reading, it gets old really fast and the book becomes not so enjoyable. No problem with this book. These women all become someone you know and love before you finish reading and that is all thanks to the talent of Elise Marion. Without boring the reader with page after page of narrative, Elise manages to wend her way through their history, bring them into this book and write their story with nary a problem. I love the way this author writes. Her words aren't just written, they flow through the story. Occasionally, she sends me running to an online dictionary to find out what she already knew through her research and that endears her to me even more because I love learning new things about new places, even when those places are imaginary like Cardenas.
The second thing I love about this author is that when she creates a world where her characters can reside, she doesn't go half-way. She manages to describe it well enough that her readers can imagine being there, living there, and loving there.
And speaking of love. That's the other place where Elise hit a huge home run in this book. These were not ingenues looking for a husband, these women were warriors who had no interest in being married. They had their own property, they were strong and independent, and the men they fell in love with fit them perfectly. This book contains HEA's that were absolutely perfect for the women who moved through these pages.
Did you get that I liked the book yet? Or should I keep going? lol I read a LOT. And I try to review everything I read, good or bad. I demand that indie authors step up to the plate, write their best, put 110% into each book, and then allow the readers to enjoy them. Elise Marion does this perfectly. I highly recommend you buy this book, enjoy the warriors within its pages, then come right here and tell the world that you agree with me. A well written book!
May 31, 2019
This book is a collection of three novellas about three very different female warriors who helped change the tides of history in Barony. Each novella shows the background of each woman as well as her present circumstance before their worlds go awry in very different ways. But each is also a romance, with heroes that are very appropriate for these strong women.
This is the first book that I have read of this series, so I don't have the whole background, but I can say you don't need to have read the previous books to appreciate this one. All three women who starred in these novellas have an incredible strength of character as well as of body. Their histories are complex, and the very first story about Ava pulled me right in with the horrific description of the rebels coming through her town when she was a child. The author did a brilliant job of showing this pivotal moment that changed this young girl in more ways than one. This very first scene pulled me into this set of books emotionally so I couldn't help but want to continue. I appreciate the racial diversity of these women. The stories are so very different, which is a delight in the collection, as they often contain stories that are too similar. The heroes were the perfect matches and compliments to the heroines, and the HEAs were very satisfying and wholly appropriate for the circumstances of each story.
The author has the ability to describe with such depth that you feel like you can see what's going on or the surroundings and feel the emotions of the characters, yet it doesn't feel like too much narrative or description. Not an easy thing to do! She literally draws you into the story with an ease that I rarely see in fiction, and I read a lot! She has developed plots that play up the heroine’s strengths but also show their vulnerabilities. If you like well-written, engaging fantasy with strong female leads that feels moored in reality, you may very well enjoy this set of novellas.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com.
This is the first book that I have read of this series, so I don't have the whole background, but I can say you don't need to have read the previous books to appreciate this one. All three women who starred in these novellas have an incredible strength of character as well as of body. Their histories are complex, and the very first story about Ava pulled me right in with the horrific description of the rebels coming through her town when she was a child. The author did a brilliant job of showing this pivotal moment that changed this young girl in more ways than one. This very first scene pulled me into this set of books emotionally so I couldn't help but want to continue. I appreciate the racial diversity of these women. The stories are so very different, which is a delight in the collection, as they often contain stories that are too similar. The heroes were the perfect matches and compliments to the heroines, and the HEAs were very satisfying and wholly appropriate for the circumstances of each story.
The author has the ability to describe with such depth that you feel like you can see what's going on or the surroundings and feel the emotions of the characters, yet it doesn't feel like too much narrative or description. Not an easy thing to do! She literally draws you into the story with an ease that I rarely see in fiction, and I read a lot! She has developed plots that play up the heroine’s strengths but also show their vulnerabilities. If you like well-written, engaging fantasy with strong female leads that feels moored in reality, you may very well enjoy this set of novellas.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com.
June 1, 2019
The Lady Warriors of Barony consists of three spectacular stories about how several Lady Knights not only found their freedom from the life they were born into but found men who love them unconditionally.
In Book 1: The Hellion, we visit Ava’s memories of the life she witnessed as a child and how she became the caption of the lady knights. Through a kidnapping, Ava meets Julian (hired to kidnap and deliver her to a most hideous man). Sparks fly and soon they realize they cannot stay apart. Ava certainly keeps Julian on his toes!
In Book 2: Beloved, we journey with Mudiwa through the tragedy of the life she was born into. We read of her love, her experiences killing elephants, her distain for the king, and her ultimate betrayal that led her to being sold into slavery. Her escape from the slave ship and meeting Ava and Hanako, leads her to the Lady Knights and a life where she belongs. After being abducted as a bargaining chip to get to Ava, Mudiwa finds herself in a strange land, beaten and close to death and in the rose room of Prideux Plantation. She meets Isaac and although she desires him – she convinces herself that they can never be together. Thankfully Isaac helps her to see things differently and in the end shows her what one would do to be with the woman he loves. (FYI – this was my favorite story of the three).
In Book 3: The Accidental Groom, we read of the path Hanako took that led her to the Lady Knights. When her past catches up with her, she takes a huge leap and finds herself married to a wonderful man, Garrick. While it begins as a marriage in name only, it quickly becomes more. Even when Hanako’s past rears its ugly head again, their bond is not broken. The happily-ever-after in this story is so sweet and well-deserved!
In Book 1: The Hellion, we visit Ava’s memories of the life she witnessed as a child and how she became the caption of the lady knights. Through a kidnapping, Ava meets Julian (hired to kidnap and deliver her to a most hideous man). Sparks fly and soon they realize they cannot stay apart. Ava certainly keeps Julian on his toes!
In Book 2: Beloved, we journey with Mudiwa through the tragedy of the life she was born into. We read of her love, her experiences killing elephants, her distain for the king, and her ultimate betrayal that led her to being sold into slavery. Her escape from the slave ship and meeting Ava and Hanako, leads her to the Lady Knights and a life where she belongs. After being abducted as a bargaining chip to get to Ava, Mudiwa finds herself in a strange land, beaten and close to death and in the rose room of Prideux Plantation. She meets Isaac and although she desires him – she convinces herself that they can never be together. Thankfully Isaac helps her to see things differently and in the end shows her what one would do to be with the woman he loves. (FYI – this was my favorite story of the three).
In Book 3: The Accidental Groom, we read of the path Hanako took that led her to the Lady Knights. When her past catches up with her, she takes a huge leap and finds herself married to a wonderful man, Garrick. While it begins as a marriage in name only, it quickly becomes more. Even when Hanako’s past rears its ugly head again, their bond is not broken. The happily-ever-after in this story is so sweet and well-deserved!
May 18, 2019
Another great book in the Royals of Cardenas series. This is book three in the series and is about the toughest warriors ones anywhere, the Lady Warriors. The Lady Warriors live in the Barony with Isabelle as their queen and ruler. Ava is kidnapped or is she? When the village is attacked and the women and girls are taken by Dorian Blake to sell into slavery, she is targeted because Dorian must have her. Ava has to get the women back and some of the warriors that were taken. The ship, the Raven is in the harbor waiting for Ava and the women. Julian and Simon, the men tasked for the job of taking Ava are not what they seem. Will everyone get out safely? This book tells the backstory of the warriors. I absolutely loved it. Very strong women and the men who loves them. Even the queen is a brave warrior. I would suggest reading the rest of the books in the series. I think you will love them as much as I do, from the very first one. I read this book voluntarily. Received this book from the author, but I bought the first book in the series.
May 22, 2019
4.5 Stars I've been eagerly anticipating this book since we first learned of the lady warriors in the last book of this series, The Awakened Prince. You absolutely do not need to read any of the other books in the series before this one, but the experience will be enriched due to the way the stories are written intertwined as the characters are with each other. Here is the story of the three warriors; Ava, Mudiwa, and Hanako. If you're looking for character diversity, this book has it in spades. If you're also looking for a really well researched account of actual real life women warriors, this is also the book for you. My favorite of the three stories was the last one, perhaps because I love a good marriage of convenience story and this one tugged on my heart strings. You'll love each of the women stories and cheer for their HEAs. Can't wait to read the next installment in the Cardenas world!
May 31, 2019
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review
Another Must Read by Elise Marion
You first experience the Lady Warriors of Barony in the Awakened Prince. They are very interesting characters. I really enjoyed getting to know more about them. Their strength, dedication and love for their home and King Serge and Queen Isabelle. They would give their lives for the ones they love. This book is about the 3 main warriors: Ava, Hanako and Mudiwa. You get a look at what their lives were like prior to them becoming warriors and how they became the Lady Warriors of Barony. Then continues the current story of what their lives are like now. My favorite story of the 3 was the Hellion. Ava's story.
Elise did an excellent job intertwining the stories together in this one book. Each warrior has her own journey. Finding love and the men that will stand by them
Another Must Read by Elise Marion
You first experience the Lady Warriors of Barony in the Awakened Prince. They are very interesting characters. I really enjoyed getting to know more about them. Their strength, dedication and love for their home and King Serge and Queen Isabelle. They would give their lives for the ones they love. This book is about the 3 main warriors: Ava, Hanako and Mudiwa. You get a look at what their lives were like prior to them becoming warriors and how they became the Lady Warriors of Barony. Then continues the current story of what their lives are like now. My favorite story of the 3 was the Hellion. Ava's story.
Elise did an excellent job intertwining the stories together in this one book. Each warrior has her own journey. Finding love and the men that will stand by them
May 31, 2019
Truthfully, I'm absolutely enthralled with the "Royals of Cardenas" series and this one, "The Lady Warriors of Barony" has brought that validation to light. Elise Marion has a way of bringing her characters to life, to make them personable and relatable. Her storylines are passionate, enchanting, thrilling, and emotional. Combine that with an underlying plot and I felt like I was part of the story, right there with them, rather than just a bystander waiting to find out what happens next. This was the best of the series so far, in my opinion. What else could represent that rather than a 5 star review. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 9, 2019
Wow, Elise Marion is an amazing author. I feel like I'm transported to the era in which this book takes place.
This book set is about the lady warriors of Barony: Ava, Mudiwa, & Hanako. There are travels to Cardenas, Martinique, and back to Barony.
There's love, romance, and danger on multiple levels. I have read, and thoroughly enjoyed every book that has been published in this series. Good book, well written.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book set is about the lady warriors of Barony: Ava, Mudiwa, & Hanako. There are travels to Cardenas, Martinique, and back to Barony.
There's love, romance, and danger on multiple levels. I have read, and thoroughly enjoyed every book that has been published in this series. Good book, well written.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 30, 2019
I am now officially in love with Elise Marion and can’t wait to binge read everything else she has authored. All three of these stories were thrilling in their own way, well written, and full of delicious steam. And best of all are the strong, capable, fierce, wonderful, courageous women in these books, who are all allowed to be humans as well.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 31, 2019
I have never read Elise Marion before but I most certainly will in the future.
All three of the stories about Ava, Mudiwa and Hanako were beautifully written. The characters of these three is brilliant. They are strong, fearless capable of anything but show courage and compassion. Just loved the books. I love getting a whole series of books together as I can’t wait for the next one. Although I’m going to have to.
All three of the stories about Ava, Mudiwa and Hanako were beautifully written. The characters of these three is brilliant. They are strong, fearless capable of anything but show courage and compassion. Just loved the books. I love getting a whole series of books together as I can’t wait for the next one. Although I’m going to have to.
June 2, 2019
Three great stories of three strong women who where lady knights of Barony, they are Ava Longley, captain of the lady knights, African Amazon, Mudiwa Akua and Hanako Kiyomi all of them will have some hard times before they get their happy endings. I recommend this book. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 2, 2019
This is the first book(s) I have read from this author, but they are fantastic and I plan to read more. Each story features one of the lady warriors and how they go through danger, intrigue and more to find their love. I love seeing strong women and these have it in spades. I highly recommend this book. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy from Booksprout.
November 17, 2019
Three women warriors and their stories when they come home from war. They hope for some peaceful it is broken when a mad man causes problems and they end up being split up. They will have their own adventures. Will they survive? Will they be reunited? See how they get on
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 29, 2019
The power of the three! Oh this Ladies are my favorites of the Series. They showcase their fighting skills and treasure their femininity. Love the fact they are from different cultures and come together for the common cause of protection. Feminine mystique at its best.
October 10, 2019
I loved that the could be brave and lead and have families also.the women got to have it all. No man felt less
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
fantasy-scfi
May 26, 2013For a star rating and complete review, visit Ind'tale Magazine online Dec/Jan 2012/13 issue. http://www.indtale.com/reviews/lady-k...
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April 11, 2017I really enjoyed reading this series of books.
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