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Warriors of York #1
Danger's Promise
Marliss Moon's first novel is a passionate, dramatic medieval romance.
Only Lady Clarise's wits and wiles could save her family. Her stepfather's orders were clear: Within two months she must poison the man known as the Slayer, or her mother and sisters are doomed to die. Fate offered the flame-haired beauty an unexpected opportunity to enter Christian de la Croix's defenses in the guise of that nursemaid that recently widowed warrior needed desperately for his motherless infant son. In that role, she soon lost her heart to tiny Simon, and came to realize that his bold father, the Slayer, was more sinned against than sinner.
Despite the frightening rumors that surround her planned prey, Clarise is soon convinced that Christian hadn't killed his young wife—and that, while he was truly a fearsome warrior, he had never wantonly slain helpless men. With those realizations came the understanding that it is her monstrous stepfather who is the true danger, and that Clarise is in desperate need of an ally and a new battle plan if she is to save everyone she loves—including the man she has come to kill.
Only Lady Clarise's wits and wiles could save her family. Her stepfather's orders were clear: Within two months she must poison the man known as the Slayer, or her mother and sisters are doomed to die. Fate offered the flame-haired beauty an unexpected opportunity to enter Christian de la Croix's defenses in the guise of that nursemaid that recently widowed warrior needed desperately for his motherless infant son. In that role, she soon lost her heart to tiny Simon, and came to realize that his bold father, the Slayer, was more sinned against than sinner.
Despite the frightening rumors that surround her planned prey, Clarise is soon convinced that Christian hadn't killed his young wife—and that, while he was truly a fearsome warrior, he had never wantonly slain helpless men. With those realizations came the understanding that it is her monstrous stepfather who is the true danger, and that Clarise is in desperate need of an ally and a new battle plan if she is to save everyone she loves—including the man she has come to kill.
312 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 26, 2002
7 people are currently reading
149 people want to read
About the author
Marliss Melton
54 books531 followersMarliss Melton is the author of over twenty romantic suspense, medieval, and inspirational stories. She relies on her experience as a military spouse and on her many contacts in the Spec Ops and Intelligence communities to pen realistic and heartfelt stories about America's elite warriors and fearless agency heroes. Daughter of a U.S. foreign officer, Melton grew up in various countries overseas. She has taught English, Spanish, ESL, and Linguistics at the College of William and Mary, her alma mater., and to this day she lives in Williamsburg, Virginia. Marliss also writes inspirational romantic suspense as Rebecca Hartt. Be sure to “friend” Marliss on Facebook! Visit www.marlissmelton.com or https://RebeccaHartt.com for more information.
Series:
* SEAL Team 12
Series:
* SEAL Team 12
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
September 9, 2021
Es la típica historia de escoceses? Sí, pero me ha gustado un montón.
Me ha gustado el estilo de la autora, me han gustado los protagonistas y me ha gustado como han ido sucediendo las cosas, el ritmo de la historia y el final.
Contenta de haberlo leído.
Me ha gustado el estilo de la autora, me han gustado los protagonistas y me ha gustado como han ido sucediendo las cosas, el ritmo de la historia y el final.
Contenta de haberlo leído.
December 5, 2025
Fast paced, thrilling, romantic
This book is better explained by paraphrasing Barney:
❝People often think a goodmix book should rise and fall... But people are wrong! It should be all rise, baby!(and goat milk~🐐)❞
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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This book is better explained by paraphrasing Barney:
❝People often think a good
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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October 18, 2015
My love of reading started with medieval romances, so any time I get a chance to read one, I jump at it. And this story was a pleasure to read. I loved the main characters. Neither was perfect and made bad decisions, but they also owned up to them and at the end, it all worked out. Yes, I am one of those. I love happy endings and any book without one is going to rate less than 5 stars for me.
Clarisse is one of those women that I really enjoy reading about. She's brave, a little reckless, but intuitive which means she doesn't always assume that what is stated as fact, is in fact, true. Although she has heard the rumors about the Slayer, and thought them to be true since she didn't know otherwise, she didn't automatically condemn him as an evil man. And after she met him, she became less sure that those rumors were all correct. That didn't mean she trusted him with her secrets, but she knew she could not harm him, but that left her with little recourse but to hope that her betroth would help her save her family.
Christian, better known as the slayer, has made mistakes. And as a result of some of those mistakes and in some cases, unplanned deaths, he is feared by most everyone. His own staff and the people he is meant to protect think he is the devil. When his wife dies during childbirth, his reputation is further cemented as a man who slays everyone around him. Desperate for a nursemaid for his son, Simon, he hires Clarisse to care for him, but under threat of death if his son should die. Not the best way to show her he is not everything that everyone believes he is, but aside from his son and second in command, he has no one else.
Their is distrust on both sides, but they need each other too. So although neither has reason to trust the other, they learn to while also falling in love. The pace was great. There were a few times when I groaned at the continued lies or ultimatums, but I was fully engaged in their story. The story is not unique, but was fun to read and very well written. If you love medieval romances, then this is a great book to try. There is violence and sex, but nothing extreme. I would definitely recommend it to anyone over 14.
Clarisse is one of those women that I really enjoy reading about. She's brave, a little reckless, but intuitive which means she doesn't always assume that what is stated as fact, is in fact, true. Although she has heard the rumors about the Slayer, and thought them to be true since she didn't know otherwise, she didn't automatically condemn him as an evil man. And after she met him, she became less sure that those rumors were all correct. That didn't mean she trusted him with her secrets, but she knew she could not harm him, but that left her with little recourse but to hope that her betroth would help her save her family.
Christian, better known as the slayer, has made mistakes. And as a result of some of those mistakes and in some cases, unplanned deaths, he is feared by most everyone. His own staff and the people he is meant to protect think he is the devil. When his wife dies during childbirth, his reputation is further cemented as a man who slays everyone around him. Desperate for a nursemaid for his son, Simon, he hires Clarisse to care for him, but under threat of death if his son should die. Not the best way to show her he is not everything that everyone believes he is, but aside from his son and second in command, he has no one else.
Their is distrust on both sides, but they need each other too. So although neither has reason to trust the other, they learn to while also falling in love. The pace was great. There were a few times when I groaned at the continued lies or ultimatums, but I was fully engaged in their story. The story is not unique, but was fun to read and very well written. If you love medieval romances, then this is a great book to try. There is violence and sex, but nothing extreme. I would definitely recommend it to anyone over 14.
November 28, 2022
En general, me ha gustado. Aunque debo insistir en que cambien la imagen de la tapa que ya va siendo hora que mejoren.
November 9, 2020
Cristhian es un hombre temido, conocido como El Asesino, las personas le huyen, no le hablan.
Clarisse es enviada al castillo de Cristhian con una misión, pero su noble corazón se lo impide y se ve en la encrucijada de que hacer para salvar a su familia, en quien confiar.
Una historia con traiciones, venganzas, avaricia.
Pero donde también vemos como nace el amor, como nuestro personaje masculino tiene la oportunidad de redimirse, limpiar su imagen.
Es una historia muy Bonita, que engancha bastante, entre las intrigas, el miedo, las esperanzas, los malos entendidos, se vive una lectura cargada de emociones.
#gruporomance
Clarisse es enviada al castillo de Cristhian con una misión, pero su noble corazón se lo impide y se ve en la encrucijada de que hacer para salvar a su familia, en quien confiar.
Una historia con traiciones, venganzas, avaricia.
Pero donde también vemos como nace el amor, como nuestro personaje masculino tiene la oportunidad de redimirse, limpiar su imagen.
Es una historia muy Bonita, que engancha bastante, entre las intrigas, el miedo, las esperanzas, los malos entendidos, se vive una lectura cargada de emociones.
#gruporomance
October 21, 2015
#1 in the exciting "Warriors of York" series, a newly revised and expanded version of Danger's Promise, previously released only in print.
WOW! I adore Ms. Melton's Romantic Suspense, but gotta say, this Medeival adventure is FANTASTIC!!
Fast paced, thrill ride of emotions with engaging, energetic and charismatic characters. The storyline is unique, well written, intriguing and very, very interesting. Filled with betrayal, secrets, suspense, redemption, forgiveness, healing, mystery, romance, passion and deception. I absolutely adored the heroine and the hero in this story. While the hero is nicknamed, "Slayer",Christian de la Croix(Simon), is so much more. The, heroine, "Clare", Clarisse du Boise, is made to be a part of a deception in order to save her family, that could possibly result in either her death and her family's peril or find Clare and Simon the love of a lifetime.
A complex, compelling and powerful story! Ms. Melton has once again written a tale, where the reader with find themselves entrenched and held spellbound to the pages of this story and it's characters. You can feel their pain, their frustrations and their love. The emotional turmoil just flows off the pages.
A page turning tale from the first page to the last page! I absolutely loved "The Slayer's Redemption". I can hardly wait for the next installment of the "Warriors of York". A must read! Fans of Medieval Historical Romance, England, Suspense, a bit mystery, lots of deception, passion and romance will love this tale. A fantastic read!! Highly recommended!!
*Received for an honest review from the author*
Rating: 5
Heat: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
WOW! I adore Ms. Melton's Romantic Suspense, but gotta say, this Medeival adventure is FANTASTIC!!
Fast paced, thrill ride of emotions with engaging, energetic and charismatic characters. The storyline is unique, well written, intriguing and very, very interesting. Filled with betrayal, secrets, suspense, redemption, forgiveness, healing, mystery, romance, passion and deception. I absolutely adored the heroine and the hero in this story. While the hero is nicknamed, "Slayer",Christian de la Croix(Simon), is so much more. The, heroine, "Clare", Clarisse du Boise, is made to be a part of a deception in order to save her family, that could possibly result in either her death and her family's peril or find Clare and Simon the love of a lifetime.
A complex, compelling and powerful story! Ms. Melton has once again written a tale, where the reader with find themselves entrenched and held spellbound to the pages of this story and it's characters. You can feel their pain, their frustrations and their love. The emotional turmoil just flows off the pages.
A page turning tale from the first page to the last page! I absolutely loved "The Slayer's Redemption". I can hardly wait for the next installment of the "Warriors of York". A must read! Fans of Medieval Historical Romance, England, Suspense, a bit mystery, lots of deception, passion and romance will love this tale. A fantastic read!! Highly recommended!!
*Received for an honest review from the author*
Rating: 5
Heat: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
July 21, 2020
Pretty good ! Christian is a lonely, misunderstood hero. I love that though everyone hates him, he is still a good, fair leader.
Clarissa is forced by her evil stepfather to poison the hero or he'll hang her mother and sisters. She takes the job as the wet nurse to Christian's newborn son whom she feeds goat's milk. Right away she can't kill Christian but she can't tell him the truth either.
Problems: it's frustrating waiting for her to tell the truth.
Her betrothed becomes a monk yet she still thinks he will save her. It got old! The weakling is not going to save her. You would think she would look at her warrior employer to be her champion.
The biggest flaw in the story is that the hero sucks on her breast and now magically she can produce breast milk. Really? Why would the author go so ridiculous?
All the flaws aside this is a good, enjoyable read. There is a range of villians lke the unsurper stepfather to a poisoning abbot.4 stars!
Clarissa is forced by her evil stepfather to poison the hero or he'll hang her mother and sisters. She takes the job as the wet nurse to Christian's newborn son whom she feeds goat's milk. Right away she can't kill Christian but she can't tell him the truth either.
Problems: it's frustrating waiting for her to tell the truth.
Her betrothed becomes a monk yet she still thinks he will save her. It got old! The weakling is not going to save her. You would think she would look at her warrior employer to be her champion.
The biggest flaw in the story is that the hero sucks on her breast and now magically she can produce breast milk. Really? Why would the author go so ridiculous?
All the flaws aside this is a good, enjoyable read. There is a range of villians lke the unsurper stepfather to a poisoning abbot.4 stars!
December 14, 2020
He disfrutado mucho leyendo este libro, pero, definitivamente, lo mejor de este es Christian de la Croix. Me ha parecido un personaje maravilloso. De hecho, es mi favorito. Su arco de redención, aunque deja que desear un poco, ya que faltaría más tiempo de adaptación, a mi parecer. Sin embargo, es el mejor personaje con diferencia.
Me ha faltado un poco de contexto: ¿dónde estamos? ¿Por qué los nobles hablan francés normando? ¿Estamos en Inglaterra o en Normandía o en Escocia? En eso peca un poco la novela.
Por lo demás, me he quedado muy satisfecha, aunque tiene tantas tramas secundarias que acaba por liarme un poco y no saber hacer un buen resumen.
Por último, **SPOILER ALERT** no entiendo lo de la leche milagrosa, pero bueno, espero que tenga una explicación científica, ya que en ningún momento han metido el tema de la magia como para ser algo más.
Me ha faltado un poco de contexto: ¿dónde estamos? ¿Por qué los nobles hablan francés normando? ¿Estamos en Inglaterra o en Normandía o en Escocia? En eso peca un poco la novela.
Por lo demás, me he quedado muy satisfecha, aunque tiene tantas tramas secundarias que acaba por liarme un poco y no saber hacer un buen resumen.
Por último, **SPOILER ALERT** no entiendo lo de la leche milagrosa, pero bueno, espero que tenga una explicación científica, ya que en ningún momento han metido el tema de la magia como para ser algo más.
October 9, 2020
Nunca había leído a esta autora y he de decir que me ha gustado mucho. Me he metido en la historia desde el principio, ha sido muy entretenida y emocionante. Por lo que veo es el primero de una saga, que sin duda leeré en cuanto pueda. Gracias a #GrupoRomanceEditorial por el ejemplar.
April 1, 2022
The Slayer's Redemption: Warriors of York, Book 1, my ninth read from author Marliss Melton and the first featuring the collaborative efforts of Scott Fleming's narration. I was reading/listening to Marliss Melton pretty consistently for the first eight reads until I ran out of audiobooks and drifted away to other authors/genres. Very different the the romantic suspense books of hers I normally read, but it was a very enjoyable change of pace with unexpected twists & turns. I'll be reading more from this author and in this series as well as her other series. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
October 27, 2020
Una hermosa historia, que permite darse cuenta que no todo es lo que parece y el malo no siempre es malo. Y él que "supuestamente" debe ser bueno tampoco lo es; digo supuestamente por las convenciones sociales. Me quede con ganas de poder saber más de la historia de Clarisse y Christian y espero que en los siguientes libros aunque sea de paso los mencione. Hay tantas historias entretejidas que daría para muchos libros entre todos sus personajes. Simplemente maravillosa la historia.
May 13, 2022
This is my first time reading a book by Marliss Melton and I'm hooked. This story kept me from getting sleep. The way she writes reads like a movie. The descriptions and dialog are great. I really liked the depth of the characters. The story was very unpredictable. The two lead characters Christian and Clarisse leap from the pages. I feel as if I've spoken to the both.
October 30, 2020
Una hermosa historia
October 5, 2016
The Slayer's Redemption
This is the first time I have read a book by Marliss Melton and enjoyed reading it. She kept me not wanting to put the book down. I'm going to put her on my must read list. The story is about how the hero got his nickname and making everyone believe it was true and how the heroine changed him. I hope you will enjoy reading this book as much as I did. I am going to start reading the next book in this series.
This is the first time I have read a book by Marliss Melton and enjoyed reading it. She kept me not wanting to put the book down. I'm going to put her on my must read list. The story is about how the hero got his nickname and making everyone believe it was true and how the heroine changed him. I hope you will enjoy reading this book as much as I did. I am going to start reading the next book in this series.
October 1, 2016
Marliss Melton certainly has a knack for weaving a tale, a Medival tale at that.
The cover was the first thing that immediately drew me into the story. As I began reading, I really enjoyed the word play Marliss used throughout the book.
Slayer's Redemption is the story of Christian de' la Croix. The reigning lord of Helmsley Castle with a dark reputation in tow. When rumors are rouse that he is to blame for the death of his late wife; Christian grows broken, tortured, brooding. And with his dark reputation as being the Slayer, he feared more. When his son Simon inherits the title of Baron of the surrounding land, Christian grows distraught. And with no mother to care for him, Christian has no choice but to find a nursemaid for the infant if there was any hope of him surviving.
Entre Clarisse du Boise, or as she calls herself Clare Crucis. Eldest daughter of the de'Boise Clan and the hope as well. When Clare is sent on a mission by her stepfather Angus Ferguson to assassinate Christian, Clare see's no other choice, at the expense of mother and sisters.
In hopes for aid, Clare seeks out her former betrothed Alec Monteign for help. She finds the young lord at the Abby of Rievaulx. Although, her efforts are in vain.
Not only is Monteign helpless to assist Clare, he is quarantined. In straits, Clare is turned away from the Abby to find another avenue to save her Kinswomen. When Clare meets Robert de Saintonge, the Slayer's vessel, she overhears his plan for a nursemaid for the infant. Clare agrees to take the job. A perfect cover to complete her mission. However, when she meets the Slayer face to face, he is not at all what Clare suspected of. Handsome, Chivalrous and kind; and it doesn't take long for Clare has a change of heart. And a lapse in judgment when she begins to care for Simon. Things become more than complicated the longer Clare stays in Helmsley. Danger surrounds the infant at every turn. Self-doubt begins to set in for Clare for any hopes of saving her Mother, as she must keep up the ruse that she is a former surf, rather than a noblewoman. Plus, things become more complicated. Day by day, the more time Christian and Clare spend time together, the affection grows between the couple. Clare faces a complicated decision. The tension mounts for the audience, as the couple's affection for one another grows. But, Clare feelings for former betrothed lingers. And a growing affection for Christian manifests. But for Christian, his sins begin to weigh upon him, thus his insecurities take root. Christian softens his resolve towards the young woman who cares for his son, as he eventually see's through Clare's charade. When confronted, Clare uncovers the reasoning of why she is at Helmsley Castle.
Marliss does a wonderful job with the story all around. The mystery that is woven into the tale, of her characters and really give the story depth that can pull the audience into perfect drama. I also really enjoyed the character of Clarisse as we read more about her. She is brash and bold. As she is not afraid to stand up to the Slayer. Thus not afraid to get the job done. I do recommend this book to anyone who is interested in Medival Romance.
The cover was the first thing that immediately drew me into the story. As I began reading, I really enjoyed the word play Marliss used throughout the book.
Slayer's Redemption is the story of Christian de' la Croix. The reigning lord of Helmsley Castle with a dark reputation in tow. When rumors are rouse that he is to blame for the death of his late wife; Christian grows broken, tortured, brooding. And with his dark reputation as being the Slayer, he feared more. When his son Simon inherits the title of Baron of the surrounding land, Christian grows distraught. And with no mother to care for him, Christian has no choice but to find a nursemaid for the infant if there was any hope of him surviving.
Entre Clarisse du Boise, or as she calls herself Clare Crucis. Eldest daughter of the de'Boise Clan and the hope as well. When Clare is sent on a mission by her stepfather Angus Ferguson to assassinate Christian, Clare see's no other choice, at the expense of mother and sisters.
In hopes for aid, Clare seeks out her former betrothed Alec Monteign for help. She finds the young lord at the Abby of Rievaulx. Although, her efforts are in vain.
Not only is Monteign helpless to assist Clare, he is quarantined. In straits, Clare is turned away from the Abby to find another avenue to save her Kinswomen. When Clare meets Robert de Saintonge, the Slayer's vessel, she overhears his plan for a nursemaid for the infant. Clare agrees to take the job. A perfect cover to complete her mission. However, when she meets the Slayer face to face, he is not at all what Clare suspected of. Handsome, Chivalrous and kind; and it doesn't take long for Clare has a change of heart. And a lapse in judgment when she begins to care for Simon. Things become more than complicated the longer Clare stays in Helmsley. Danger surrounds the infant at every turn. Self-doubt begins to set in for Clare for any hopes of saving her Mother, as she must keep up the ruse that she is a former surf, rather than a noblewoman. Plus, things become more complicated. Day by day, the more time Christian and Clare spend time together, the affection grows between the couple. Clare faces a complicated decision. The tension mounts for the audience, as the couple's affection for one another grows. But, Clare feelings for former betrothed lingers. And a growing affection for Christian manifests. But for Christian, his sins begin to weigh upon him, thus his insecurities take root. Christian softens his resolve towards the young woman who cares for his son, as he eventually see's through Clare's charade. When confronted, Clare uncovers the reasoning of why she is at Helmsley Castle.
Marliss does a wonderful job with the story all around. The mystery that is woven into the tale, of her characters and really give the story depth that can pull the audience into perfect drama. I also really enjoyed the character of Clarisse as we read more about her. She is brash and bold. As she is not afraid to stand up to the Slayer. Thus not afraid to get the job done. I do recommend this book to anyone who is interested in Medival Romance.
November 24, 2015
Marliss, you nailed this one dead on. Talk about superb and me suffering from a massive book hangover once I finished the last page, well the book hangover started towards the last final chapters. I loved the strength possessed within the heroin, the courage and hope possessed from within the hero and the growth each went through from beginning to end. This couple just oozed compatibility, togetherness, love and we the reader were led on an adventure of "feeling" what it was like to live in this time period. This book for me ranks equal to Judith McNaught's memorable and riveting story "A Kingdom of Dreams". I can't wait for the next books to be released.
October 17, 2015
In Slayers Redemption we have knights, castles, battles, intrigue, deception & betrayals that keep us turning the pages. While immersed in all the suspense you find yourself wanting Christian and Clare to find a way to survive and make a life together. If you like to read Medieval romantic suspense don't miss the story of Christian and Clare. Marliss Melton know for her Navy seals and Echo Platoon series shows us she can write outstanding medieval romantic suspense.
August 27, 2015
I have really enjoyed reading Marliss Moon first book. I am on to Book #2. By Starlight. Book #1 is a must read. set in Medieval times - there is action, love, mystery with a twist that is not known until the very end. A very good read. I like how Claire first fell in love with Simon & then Simon's father.
October 23, 2015
It was a very good book. Well written.
Clarisse Du Boise was sent to the castle of the Slayer by her stepfather to kill the Slayer. She had to find away to get into the castle.
She heard that he needed a person to take care of his new born child.
So she lied to take care of the child.
After meeting the Slayer she could not kill him.
Hope you enjoy the book as much as I did.
Clarisse Du Boise was sent to the castle of the Slayer by her stepfather to kill the Slayer. She had to find away to get into the castle.
She heard that he needed a person to take care of his new born child.
So she lied to take care of the child.
After meeting the Slayer she could not kill him.
Hope you enjoy the book as much as I did.
December 10, 2008
3.5 stars. A little slow in places and the heroine was borderline TSTL but overall a decent read.
September 10, 2015
Tepid medieval, a waste of my time.
http://ktleyed.blogspot.com/2009/08/d...
http://ktleyed.blogspot.com/2009/08/d...
October 26, 2015
I stayed up until midnight to finish this story. This is the first book I've read by Marliss Melton and loved it. I cannot wait for the next two books in this series.
November 24, 2015
posted my review on the duplicate page.
October 24, 2016
Love comes in the most unusual packages
![Profile Image for ᑭᑌᑎƳᗩ [Punya Reviews...].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1572968006i%2F3840999._UX200_CR0%2C33%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
April 28, 2017
My review contains spoilers and they're mostly my thoughts... for more, visit Punya Reviews...
I picked up The Slayer's Redemption because when it was recommended somewhere. I read the blurb and wanted to check it out. And I can honestly say I haven’t regretted that decision.
The Slayer's Redemption , book 1 of Warriors of York, by Marliss Melton is the reissue of her debut novel Danger's Promise. I haven’t read anything by the author prior to this, not even the original so can’t really do a compare and contrast. However, what I can tell you is that I’d be waiting for any medieval/historical romance she writes from now on! This was a pure feel-good medieval romance, like those I had read from other famous authors like Julie Garwood. It had fun, some quirkiness with some mysteries and really odd stuff happening throughout. The heroine was adorably clueless sometimes but she was not TSTL by any means. And the hero, nicknamed The Slayer because of rumors of him being a killing machine, was nothing like that. He was also adorably clueless, and grumpy. Most of the times. But he was true and loyal where it mattered the most—in his heart. The Slayer definitely had a heart and it wasn’t black contrary to what everyone, including himself, believed. And that is what the author set out to tell us in this adorable little novel.
The story is set in the Anglo-Norman era when battles and blood were the way of life... or so it seemed. Christian De La Croix is the by blow of a Danish heathen, a mercenary who was once wrought terror in these lands by his name only. The Dane had later settled down as a Lord. The tale of Christian’s birth is rather gut-wrenching but he somehow did find his way closer to his “father” (that POS was no father to him, ever), such was fate’s play in his life. But he didn’t know about the relationship until much later when Christian had already trained under the brute and earned his spurs. Christian was sorely abused and severely mocked—for his faith in God, for his pure ways of life, for being kind until the Dane succeeded moulding him into his own cast... almost that is. He can definitely thank his pater for the scar on his face. That brute paid for it with his life too, when Christian, after hearing everything, was so enraged, all he could think of was avenging his mother. Though he doesn’t regret doing what he did, he has regretted how his live had progressed in the next years. Nothing was ever the same again. The tale of him killing his father, that mixed up with the tales of his own prowess in war has gotten to such an extent that people are now terrified of him. To their eyes, he’s the Devil incarnate. Christian seemed to have resigned to this sad and lonely existence.
Until very recently, Christian had no other ambition in his life but to win any battles he had been a part of. His life had been full of misery and chaos. Battles and blood and grit. Lives taken by his own hands haunting him, the guilt resulting in many sleepless nights. Then he found a sanctuary of somewhat when he’s recruited by John, the Baron of Helmsley. He also married the lord’s gentle and saintly, only daughter Genrose. John liked Christian and knew he’d protect Helmsley and Genrose at all cost since he’d be the next baron. But again, nothing went according to plan. In a year since their marriage, Genrose lost both her parents, then lost her own life while giving birth to Christian’s son who was later named by his father as Simon. That’s where our story begins, that horrible night when Christian had to resort to drastic measures to save Simon’s life for it would seem that Genrose had perished from the strain of childbirth. At that time, Christian had only one thing in mind, to do something so his son doesn’t follow his mother. Most people hated Christian in this place and was terrified of his wrath so he wasn’t surprised when it was bandied about quite gleefully, no thanks to the b!tchy hoursekeeper Maeve, that he’d killed Genrose.
Now Simon needed a wet nurse as soon as possible. Time was running out and Christian was desperate to do something. Sir Roger, who had followed him from his father’s home and been with him through all his ups and downs, who is now his right-hand man, is given the job of finding one. He finds one alright; a pretty little thing called Clarisse at the market and brings her back into the castle pronto. Only he didn’t know that Clarisse was sent by a ruthless Scot named Ferguson to kill Christian. The reason why she lied to get into the castle.
But Clarisse du Boise didn’t want to do this and yet, she was desperate too, to save the lives of her mother and sisters. Their home was also cruelly torn apart by Ferguson with the killing of her gentle father in the most gruesome way possible. Her mother met another fate that no woman ever wants to experience in her life. Then she was forcibly married to the Scot. Jeannette now looks more like a wraith, a shell of her former beautiful and vivacious self. Clarisse tried to rebel, but it had only resulted her being punished by a rigorous whipping. The Slayer is the biggest enemy of the Scot so he wants him out of the way. As an extended punishment, she’s sent to The Slayer’s lair to poison him. If she fails to do so within a month, her mother Jeannette and sisters Merry and Katherine, will be hung. She will hang too if Ferguson ever lays his hands on her. But maybe, the Slayer’s men will take care of it once she’s been caught for the deed. To say Clarisse was scared would be an understatement but she had to what she had to do to get closer to the man in question to accomplish what she’s been sent for.
Clarisse was wretched and desperate, and until she met Christian, she thought she may be able to accomplish the deed. She also envisioned him to be a much older man by all the reputation he’d garnered, however unsavory it may have been. But the moment she meets Simon, crying for a bit of milk... and Christian and his fatherly concerns, stark fear of losing the only family he’d left, Clarisse knew she could never get through with this plan. She must find another way to save her family without harming Simon and Christian. But the question was, how?
I will try not to divulge any more but only that Clarisse and Christian’s relationship was portrayed in quite an adorable (there’s that word again), and in a very believable way. They didn’t just fell in love, though both were attracted to each-other from the very beginning. Their love was a slow burn but it shone through in the end, in a way that’d leave no doubt in anyone’s mind. Neither was evil so they simply followed their heart and The Slayer gradually became the slayer of only his Lady’s heart. :P Though various troubles such as enemies threatening lives, mingling with some distrust (which was also understandable since both were wary of strangers for good reason) had kept them from being together for a long time, I didn’t mind it. Clarisse’s love for little Simon had evolved to such an extent that I had trouble believing what I read. At one point, her body transforms to feed him, which I found a bit too OTT (that was the only part where I rolled my eyes in the whole book) but it strengthened their bond. She kept Christian at bay, not knowing if he’d ever turn on her after knowing exactly why she’d been send to Helmsley. However, he wasn’t that rash, so when he found out her true identity, and her rather sad circumstances, he was quite pouting that she didn’t trust him enough to confide in him.
Love scenes were mild, but I loved them as Clarisse and Christian’s chemistry was great. There were some hot kissing scenes though, portraying their attraction quite thoroughly. ;) Writing was excellent, plot engaging. I just gobbled it up and have already picked up book 2, The Black Knight's Reward, which is Clarisse’s middle sister Merry’s book. Merry rather came off as a rude individual but I think that inside, there hides a very frightened girl. After reading that they both witnessed their father’s gruesome execution, I can only imagine..... No, I actually can’t. My stomach simply cramped by the thought of it. :(
Unfortunately, not a lot is learned about Genrose, the first Lady of the manor who died so young, but only a little through people’s reminiscence of her. Christian termed her as a saintly woman who wanted to become a nun but married him because her father needed an heir for Helmsley. He doubted he ever really knew her that well. Genrose wasn’t unkind, just not interested in the physical side of marriage all that much, so Christian was forced to become celibate. As far as I can remember, he never cheat on Genrose... and he wasn’t with anyone until Clarisse. He only wanted her and that’s how it remained until they married. No matter what, I felt really sad at Genrose’s plight.
I would recommend this story to anyone who is looking for a well-written medieval romance. There was not a single boring moment in the book! 4.5 stars.
I picked up The Slayer's Redemption because when it was recommended somewhere. I read the blurb and wanted to check it out. And I can honestly say I haven’t regretted that decision.
The Slayer's Redemption , book 1 of Warriors of York, by Marliss Melton is the reissue of her debut novel Danger's Promise. I haven’t read anything by the author prior to this, not even the original so can’t really do a compare and contrast. However, what I can tell you is that I’d be waiting for any medieval/historical romance she writes from now on! This was a pure feel-good medieval romance, like those I had read from other famous authors like Julie Garwood. It had fun, some quirkiness with some mysteries and really odd stuff happening throughout. The heroine was adorably clueless sometimes but she was not TSTL by any means. And the hero, nicknamed The Slayer because of rumors of him being a killing machine, was nothing like that. He was also adorably clueless, and grumpy. Most of the times. But he was true and loyal where it mattered the most—in his heart. The Slayer definitely had a heart and it wasn’t black contrary to what everyone, including himself, believed. And that is what the author set out to tell us in this adorable little novel.
The story is set in the Anglo-Norman era when battles and blood were the way of life... or so it seemed. Christian De La Croix is the by blow of a Danish heathen, a mercenary who was once wrought terror in these lands by his name only. The Dane had later settled down as a Lord. The tale of Christian’s birth is rather gut-wrenching but he somehow did find his way closer to his “father” (that POS was no father to him, ever), such was fate’s play in his life. But he didn’t know about the relationship until much later when Christian had already trained under the brute and earned his spurs. Christian was sorely abused and severely mocked—for his faith in God, for his pure ways of life, for being kind until the Dane succeeded moulding him into his own cast... almost that is. He can definitely thank his pater for the scar on his face. That brute paid for it with his life too, when Christian, after hearing everything, was so enraged, all he could think of was avenging his mother. Though he doesn’t regret doing what he did, he has regretted how his live had progressed in the next years. Nothing was ever the same again. The tale of him killing his father, that mixed up with the tales of his own prowess in war has gotten to such an extent that people are now terrified of him. To their eyes, he’s the Devil incarnate. Christian seemed to have resigned to this sad and lonely existence.
Until very recently, Christian had no other ambition in his life but to win any battles he had been a part of. His life had been full of misery and chaos. Battles and blood and grit. Lives taken by his own hands haunting him, the guilt resulting in many sleepless nights. Then he found a sanctuary of somewhat when he’s recruited by John, the Baron of Helmsley. He also married the lord’s gentle and saintly, only daughter Genrose. John liked Christian and knew he’d protect Helmsley and Genrose at all cost since he’d be the next baron. But again, nothing went according to plan. In a year since their marriage, Genrose lost both her parents, then lost her own life while giving birth to Christian’s son who was later named by his father as Simon. That’s where our story begins, that horrible night when Christian had to resort to drastic measures to save Simon’s life for it would seem that Genrose had perished from the strain of childbirth. At that time, Christian had only one thing in mind, to do something so his son doesn’t follow his mother. Most people hated Christian in this place and was terrified of his wrath so he wasn’t surprised when it was bandied about quite gleefully, no thanks to the b!tchy hoursekeeper Maeve, that he’d killed Genrose.
Now Simon needed a wet nurse as soon as possible. Time was running out and Christian was desperate to do something. Sir Roger, who had followed him from his father’s home and been with him through all his ups and downs, who is now his right-hand man, is given the job of finding one. He finds one alright; a pretty little thing called Clarisse at the market and brings her back into the castle pronto. Only he didn’t know that Clarisse was sent by a ruthless Scot named Ferguson to kill Christian. The reason why she lied to get into the castle.
But Clarisse du Boise didn’t want to do this and yet, she was desperate too, to save the lives of her mother and sisters. Their home was also cruelly torn apart by Ferguson with the killing of her gentle father in the most gruesome way possible. Her mother met another fate that no woman ever wants to experience in her life. Then she was forcibly married to the Scot. Jeannette now looks more like a wraith, a shell of her former beautiful and vivacious self. Clarisse tried to rebel, but it had only resulted her being punished by a rigorous whipping. The Slayer is the biggest enemy of the Scot so he wants him out of the way. As an extended punishment, she’s sent to The Slayer’s lair to poison him. If she fails to do so within a month, her mother Jeannette and sisters Merry and Katherine, will be hung. She will hang too if Ferguson ever lays his hands on her. But maybe, the Slayer’s men will take care of it once she’s been caught for the deed. To say Clarisse was scared would be an understatement but she had to what she had to do to get closer to the man in question to accomplish what she’s been sent for.
Clarisse was wretched and desperate, and until she met Christian, she thought she may be able to accomplish the deed. She also envisioned him to be a much older man by all the reputation he’d garnered, however unsavory it may have been. But the moment she meets Simon, crying for a bit of milk... and Christian and his fatherly concerns, stark fear of losing the only family he’d left, Clarisse knew she could never get through with this plan. She must find another way to save her family without harming Simon and Christian. But the question was, how?
I will try not to divulge any more but only that Clarisse and Christian’s relationship was portrayed in quite an adorable (there’s that word again), and in a very believable way. They didn’t just fell in love, though both were attracted to each-other from the very beginning. Their love was a slow burn but it shone through in the end, in a way that’d leave no doubt in anyone’s mind. Neither was evil so they simply followed their heart and The Slayer gradually became the slayer of only his Lady’s heart. :P Though various troubles such as enemies threatening lives, mingling with some distrust (which was also understandable since both were wary of strangers for good reason) had kept them from being together for a long time, I didn’t mind it. Clarisse’s love for little Simon had evolved to such an extent that I had trouble believing what I read. At one point, her body transforms to feed him, which I found a bit too OTT (that was the only part where I rolled my eyes in the whole book) but it strengthened their bond. She kept Christian at bay, not knowing if he’d ever turn on her after knowing exactly why she’d been send to Helmsley. However, he wasn’t that rash, so when he found out her true identity, and her rather sad circumstances, he was quite pouting that she didn’t trust him enough to confide in him.
Love scenes were mild, but I loved them as Clarisse and Christian’s chemistry was great. There were some hot kissing scenes though, portraying their attraction quite thoroughly. ;) Writing was excellent, plot engaging. I just gobbled it up and have already picked up book 2, The Black Knight's Reward, which is Clarisse’s middle sister Merry’s book. Merry rather came off as a rude individual but I think that inside, there hides a very frightened girl. After reading that they both witnessed their father’s gruesome execution, I can only imagine..... No, I actually can’t. My stomach simply cramped by the thought of it. :(
Unfortunately, not a lot is learned about Genrose, the first Lady of the manor who died so young, but only a little through people’s reminiscence of her. Christian termed her as a saintly woman who wanted to become a nun but married him because her father needed an heir for Helmsley. He doubted he ever really knew her that well. Genrose wasn’t unkind, just not interested in the physical side of marriage all that much, so Christian was forced to become celibate. As far as I can remember, he never cheat on Genrose... and he wasn’t with anyone until Clarisse. He only wanted her and that’s how it remained until they married. No matter what, I felt really sad at Genrose’s plight.
I would recommend this story to anyone who is looking for a well-written medieval romance. There was not a single boring moment in the book! 4.5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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