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Knights of Destiny #1
Silverhawk
To avenge his mother's honor, Sir Giles of Cambrai has come to England to kill his father. First, however, he'll take sweet revenge by kidnapping his sire's new betrothed. But when Giles uncovers a plot against King Richard, he faces a take the lady or track the traitors. What's a good mercenary to do? Both, of course. Abandoned in a convent by her brother, Lady Emelin finally has the chance for home and family. Yet now she's been abducted. Her kidnapper may be the image of her dream knight, but she won't allow him to spoil this betrothal. Her only escape Rescuing the intrepid lady--while hunting the traitors--is a challenge Giles couldn't anticipate. But the greatest challenge to both Giles and Emelin is the fire blazing between them. For he's everything a proper lady should never want, and she's everything a bastard mercenary can never have.
374 pages, Paperback
First published July 23, 2013
34 people are currently reading
172 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
October 7, 2014
4 and 1/2 Stars - Classic Medieval Story of Knights and their Ladies in the time of King Richard
Set in Lincolnshire in 1197, this is the story of mercenary knight Sir Giles of Cambrai (“Silverhawk”), who was ambushed by outlaws on his way from France to see Lord Henry of Chauvere, and Lady Emelin of Compton, whose men rescue Giles.
Lady Emelin is on her way from the convent where she was living to wed Lord Osbert, a stranger to her. Osbert essentially bought her as a broodmare from her evil brother, so that he could gain an heir. Despite this, Emelin is willing because she thinks even a bad marriage that will give her children is preferable to life as a nun. When they come across the wounded Sir Giles, she insists they take him with them so his wounds can be tended, little knowing that Giles knows her betrothed and loathes him.
This is an adventure with lots of mystery as Sir Giles’ past remains in question until the very end. Emelin is a worthy heroine, brave and yet will do her duty to help others. Giles (“Silverhawk”) remains a noble knight enamored of Emelin but believing he is unworthy of her. There are many great secondary characters that populate the story, and some who scheme to gain the advantage for King Philip of France over King Richard who remains on Crusade throughout the story.
A lively tale, I recommend it.
Set in Lincolnshire in 1197, this is the story of mercenary knight Sir Giles of Cambrai (“Silverhawk”), who was ambushed by outlaws on his way from France to see Lord Henry of Chauvere, and Lady Emelin of Compton, whose men rescue Giles.
Lady Emelin is on her way from the convent where she was living to wed Lord Osbert, a stranger to her. Osbert essentially bought her as a broodmare from her evil brother, so that he could gain an heir. Despite this, Emelin is willing because she thinks even a bad marriage that will give her children is preferable to life as a nun. When they come across the wounded Sir Giles, she insists they take him with them so his wounds can be tended, little knowing that Giles knows her betrothed and loathes him.
This is an adventure with lots of mystery as Sir Giles’ past remains in question until the very end. Emelin is a worthy heroine, brave and yet will do her duty to help others. Giles (“Silverhawk”) remains a noble knight enamored of Emelin but believing he is unworthy of her. There are many great secondary characters that populate the story, and some who scheme to gain the advantage for King Philip of France over King Richard who remains on Crusade throughout the story.
A lively tale, I recommend it.
May 22, 2020
I purchased this as part of a bundle of 7 authors called HISTORICAL SERENADE: Seven Tales of Romance.
This is what I love about bundles - finding new author's. If the rest of her work is anything like this I've found a new author to read.
This is one of those stories that held my interest from the beginning to the end. My only compliant was with the h at times trying to run away. I understood why, because she wanted to save a child, but life would have been a heck of a lot similar if she would listened to the H. Of course, then we wouldn't have a story - lol.
There is a lot of suspense, many twists, villains, great main character's that you will feel a connection, a lot of fight scenes and just a darn good story. I loved the young squire to be Davy and his tenacity!
There is lovemaking, outside of marriage, heat level 4 out of 5 and described a few times.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romance and some spice. I've gone ahead and purchased the next book in the series, and am following her so I don't miss any more of her works. I recommend this story. (ljb)
This is what I love about bundles - finding new author's. If the rest of her work is anything like this I've found a new author to read.
This is one of those stories that held my interest from the beginning to the end. My only compliant was with the h at times trying to run away. I understood why, because she wanted to save a child, but life would have been a heck of a lot similar if she would listened to the H. Of course, then we wouldn't have a story - lol.
There is a lot of suspense, many twists, villains, great main character's that you will feel a connection, a lot of fight scenes and just a darn good story. I loved the young squire to be Davy and his tenacity!
There is lovemaking, outside of marriage, heat level 4 out of 5 and described a few times.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romance and some spice. I've gone ahead and purchased the next book in the series, and am following her so I don't miss any more of her works. I recommend this story. (ljb)
January 4, 2018
If you're a fan of Kathleen E. Woodiwiss, Celeste Bradley, or Jo Beverly, you'll love Barbara Bettis. The tangled tale of Silverhawk weaves a story set in 1197 England about Sir Giles of Cambrai, a mercenary known as Silverhawk, and Lady Emeline of Compton, resident of St. Ursala Convent. Lady Emeline, betrothed to Lord Osbert Langley and Sir Giles, Langley's illegitimate son, bond as they travel to Langley. Bettis spins a tale of love and hate, trust and self-doubt mingled with the battle between two powerful kings.
Silverhawk is a story I'll read over and over. The title caught my attention; the cover, beautiful; the writing, sensual. Giles and Emeline lept off the page and will be with me forever.
Silverhawk is a story I'll read over and over. The title caught my attention; the cover, beautiful; the writing, sensual. Giles and Emeline lept off the page and will be with me forever.
October 5, 2013
This was a sweet and adventurous romance. The historical details and developement of characters made it all the easier to lose yourself in the story. Beautiful love scenes as well. A very lovely find indeed.
August 19, 2014
4.5/5.0
In an intricate plot involving greedy and traitorous men, a surprising romance blossoms between two disparate people.
Read full review in the 2014 March issue of InD’tale Magazine.
In an intricate plot involving greedy and traitorous men, a surprising romance blossoms between two disparate people.
Read full review in the 2014 March issue of InD’tale Magazine.
February 10, 2019
As a fan of Medieval stories of Knights and their Ladies in the time of King Richard, this book hit all the right notes for me.
It had everything I wanted in it, adventure, betrayal, love, and a good dose of romance. I moved quickly and I enjoyed everything about it.
Emelin of Compton is a true lady. After the disappearance of her betrothed and five years in a convent, she’s been ordered by her brother to marry. On the way to Lord Osbert, a man in need of an heir, her escort happens on a stranger who has killed three attackers and frightened three more away. She takes care of the injured man during the final portion of her journey.
This begins the entwined lives of Giles and Emelin. He’s a mercenary and will never find the comforts of wife, children, or land. He’s also honorable, loyal, kind, and determined that Emelin will be treated like the lady she was born to be, not sold with less regard than a horse.
This book was everything.
It had everything I wanted in it, adventure, betrayal, love, and a good dose of romance. I moved quickly and I enjoyed everything about it.
Emelin of Compton is a true lady. After the disappearance of her betrothed and five years in a convent, she’s been ordered by her brother to marry. On the way to Lord Osbert, a man in need of an heir, her escort happens on a stranger who has killed three attackers and frightened three more away. She takes care of the injured man during the final portion of her journey.
This begins the entwined lives of Giles and Emelin. He’s a mercenary and will never find the comforts of wife, children, or land. He’s also honorable, loyal, kind, and determined that Emelin will be treated like the lady she was born to be, not sold with less regard than a horse.
This book was everything.
February 3, 2019
Now this is what I call an amazing and wonderful medieval romance story! It has everything you would want in a historical romance and I must say that Giles and Emelin have quickly become one of my favourite couples!!! He is the handsome mercenary knight and she is the "warrior nun" as he likes to call her at first. The story contains intrigue, twists and turns, romance, heartbreak, love, mystery, as well as humour....I'm still giggling at Missy's cat's name! lol I very much recommend this book and even though Barbara Bettis is a new to me author, I will definitely be checking out her other books!
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
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September 14, 2024This was a DNF for me. I just couldn't get into it, then I picked up another romance and got distracted, and I decided I won't be going back to Silverhawk... ever.
August 3, 2014
Silverhawk is a historical romance. This book had great multilayered characters that easily carried the storyline. Lady Emelin of Compton’s brother Lord Garley banished her to a convent after her first betrothed failed to return from war. He uses her as a pawn in his bid to gain property, power, and riches. However, Lady Emelin’s time at the convent has increased her empathy and when she finds a wounded knight she is determined to take him with her and help him heal. I loved the way the author showed that Emelin kept an open heart even though she had several tragedies to occur in her life. There was instant chemistry between Emelin and the knight, Sir Giles of Cambrai, she rescued. The other secondary characters provided depth to the story and added interest.
This book had a good storyline, but it seemed like the author left some loose ends and then wrapped up other elements of the story in a way that was just a little too tidy. I was left wondering about what happened to the other wives of the Lord that Emelin was supposed to marry. Then there was also the issue of a child, Giles’ revenge, and Garley’s misdeeds that were resolved just a little too quickly. It was almost as if the author just decided I’m tired of writing here’s a way to wrap this up. I was a little disappointed by that because the author was so thorough in laying out the history and building up the plot in the first half of the book. As a matter of fact I was so well versed on Emelin & Giles’ history that I could recite it from memory. There were a lot of twists and turns in the storyline, and the suspense kept me engaged. The passion between Emelin and Giles’ was white hot. I was totally vested in their characters and their love story. So despite some of the drawbacks of the storyline I can say that I remained engaged and hanging on to every word.
I look forward to reading more from this author.
Reviewed by Michelle for Cocktails and Books
This book had a good storyline, but it seemed like the author left some loose ends and then wrapped up other elements of the story in a way that was just a little too tidy. I was left wondering about what happened to the other wives of the Lord that Emelin was supposed to marry. Then there was also the issue of a child, Giles’ revenge, and Garley’s misdeeds that were resolved just a little too quickly. It was almost as if the author just decided I’m tired of writing here’s a way to wrap this up. I was a little disappointed by that because the author was so thorough in laying out the history and building up the plot in the first half of the book. As a matter of fact I was so well versed on Emelin & Giles’ history that I could recite it from memory. There were a lot of twists and turns in the storyline, and the suspense kept me engaged. The passion between Emelin and Giles’ was white hot. I was totally vested in their characters and their love story. So despite some of the drawbacks of the storyline I can say that I remained engaged and hanging on to every word.
I look forward to reading more from this author.
Reviewed by Michelle for Cocktails and Books
October 25, 2013
Giles of Cambrai, known as Silverhawk, is a mercenary with a personal vendetta. Lady Emelin, on her way to a forced marriage may be dressed as a nun, but her heart holds passion kept barely in check. Sparks fly when the two of them collide with a stolen kiss, but a future is impossible when he is a landless mercenary and she is promised to another. Then Giles is drawn into a plot against the king and overhears a threat to Emelin’s life. He kidnaps Emelin to keep her safe, but why should she trust the motives of a man with so many secrets? The attraction she feels toward him can only be lust or is there something deeper developing. Caught up in the intrigue of shifting alliances, the two struggle against the social dictates of the day and their burgeoning feelings.
Readers who are not familiar with the political arena of medieval England may at first find the differing alliances confusing, but the factions quickly sort themselves out and don’t impede the story’s flow. The reader also gets a true sense of the powerlessness of a woman’s position during this time period. She is at the mercy of both family and social mores, unable to take charge of her own life. I also appreciated the touches of humor laced throughout. Life back then wasn’t grim all the time. Often missing in historical romances, amusing moments make the story more realistic. A character’s sudden appearance at the end, along with another’s personality transformation seemed too abrupt. The last few pages also felt rushed, but all-in-all an enjoyable visit to the past.
Readers who are not familiar with the political arena of medieval England may at first find the differing alliances confusing, but the factions quickly sort themselves out and don’t impede the story’s flow. The reader also gets a true sense of the powerlessness of a woman’s position during this time period. She is at the mercy of both family and social mores, unable to take charge of her own life. I also appreciated the touches of humor laced throughout. Life back then wasn’t grim all the time. Often missing in historical romances, amusing moments make the story more realistic. A character’s sudden appearance at the end, along with another’s personality transformation seemed too abrupt. The last few pages also felt rushed, but all-in-all an enjoyable visit to the past.
January 7, 2014
Come on a journey to Lincolnshire, England in the year 1197.
Sir Giles of Cambrai has come to England for two reasons. First: He is tasked with delivering a message from his King about a possible traitor. Second: He intends to kill the father that has never acknowledged him. His plans begin to change when he’s attacked by six armed men and rescued by a party en route to a wedding.
Emelin of Compton is a true lady. After the disappearance of her betrothed and five years in a convent, she’s been ordered by her brother to marry. On the way to Lord Osbert, a man in need of an heir, her escort happens on a stranger who has killed three attackers and frightened three more away. She tends the injured man during the final portion of her journey.
Thus begins the entwined lives of Giles and Emelin. He’s a mercenary and will never find the comforts of wife, children, or land. He’s also honorable, loyal, kind, and determined that Emelin will be treated like the lady she was born to be, not sold with less regard than a horse.
This debut novel held my interest and I found myself cheering for Giles and Emelin as they untangled the plot against King Richard and found their true positions in society.
Sir Giles of Cambrai has come to England for two reasons. First: He is tasked with delivering a message from his King about a possible traitor. Second: He intends to kill the father that has never acknowledged him. His plans begin to change when he’s attacked by six armed men and rescued by a party en route to a wedding.
Emelin of Compton is a true lady. After the disappearance of her betrothed and five years in a convent, she’s been ordered by her brother to marry. On the way to Lord Osbert, a man in need of an heir, her escort happens on a stranger who has killed three attackers and frightened three more away. She tends the injured man during the final portion of her journey.
Thus begins the entwined lives of Giles and Emelin. He’s a mercenary and will never find the comforts of wife, children, or land. He’s also honorable, loyal, kind, and determined that Emelin will be treated like the lady she was born to be, not sold with less regard than a horse.
This debut novel held my interest and I found myself cheering for Giles and Emelin as they untangled the plot against King Richard and found their true positions in society.
July 29, 2016
Well written book taking place in the 12th century and in England with a knight and lady betrothed to another. The characters were awesome. They had heart, humor, caring and I could relate to them. It was a kidnapping the lady story but so well done it was believable, entertaining and engaging. I loved this story and that it wasn't cheesy or silly. One of those books the wonderful writing made it a great story where it could have easily been the opposite.
February 1, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Silverhawk. The story moves along at a brisk pace as the hero meets the heroine when the book begins, throwing us into the action immediately. All the details and elements of historical romance writing are found in the story and the author weaves a delightful tale with her characters and plot. Five stars!
January 26, 2014
England~1197
Lady Emelin is being escorted to her soon to be home to be married when the group encounters a wounded soldier on the road, Sir Giles aka Silverhawk and the sparks fly between them. This adventure includes kidnaping, outlaws, traitors, plots, greed, love, and new beginnings.
Sex: 2 very short scenes
Violence: non-graphic
Lady Emelin is being escorted to her soon to be home to be married when the group encounters a wounded soldier on the road, Sir Giles aka Silverhawk and the sparks fly between them. This adventure includes kidnaping, outlaws, traitors, plots, greed, love, and new beginnings.
Sex: 2 very short scenes
Violence: non-graphic
September 1, 2016
This was a sweet and adventurous romance. Giles is a man on a mission, until he meets Emelin. She is willful, outspoken, and everything he could want in a woman. But she is on her way to wed another man. When a plot to murder her and a threat to the throne throw hen together, they both find that the other may prove to be their match.
August 4, 2014
Great plot!
Loved this book. Great well-developed plot that will keep you reading to see what will happen next. A wounded hero out for revenge, a villian you can hate and a heroine you can love. The author makes all of the characters (even secondary ones) come to life and includes humor that will make you laugh while you root for the hero & heroine.
Loved this book. Great well-developed plot that will keep you reading to see what will happen next. A wounded hero out for revenge, a villian you can hate and a heroine you can love. The author makes all of the characters (even secondary ones) come to life and includes humor that will make you laugh while you root for the hero & heroine.
January 22, 2014
This was a long read for me. There were times when i just didnt want to finish it because it became predictable. Hoping the end would be a kicker it was a real let down....it just ended! Like ok hello-goodbye. Overall not a bad read just not my kind of writing.
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March 4, 20144.5
In an intricate plot involving greedy and traitorous men, a surprising romance blossoms between two disparate people.
Full review in March 2014 issue of InD'tale Magazine.
In an intricate plot involving greedy and traitorous men, a surprising romance blossoms between two disparate people.
Full review in March 2014 issue of InD'tale Magazine.
May 20, 2017
Silverhawk
Here is another wonderful story by Barbara Bettis. I also read this book sometime ago. I really enjoyed reading this book. I hope you will also enjoy reading this book as much as I did.
Here is another wonderful story by Barbara Bettis. I also read this book sometime ago. I really enjoyed reading this book. I hope you will also enjoy reading this book as much as I did.
September 11, 2016
A littlest of historical romance
The story has many twists and turns. Just like life. It was interesting the ways of love held both of them. Both demanded freedom that neither truely wanted
The story has many twists and turns. Just like life. It was interesting the ways of love held both of them. Both demanded freedom that neither truely wanted
October 11, 2013
A good story!! Love the characters! Recommend it.
April 2, 2014
Review by: Vikki
Review Rating: 4.5 Stars
Link to Review: http://www.romantichistoricalreviews....
Review Rating: 4.5 Stars
Link to Review: http://www.romantichistoricalreviews....
June 3, 2016
A wonderful read with lots of historical information that enriches this without bogging it down. A great read.
May 7, 2016
2.5 stars.
September 26, 2016
Not my cup of tea
Good basic story; it did not need the sex scenes. I wish I had known before I started it. I won' t be bothering with this author any more.
Good basic story; it did not need the sex scenes. I wish I had known before I started it. I won' t be bothering with this author any more.
November 1, 2013
3.5 stars
I liked it more than I'd thought I would.
I liked it more than I'd thought I would.
March 30, 2017
Not perfect, but quite good
A few things didn't sit quite right with the story, sort of like the author wrote things out of order and didn't quite fix inconsistencies that cropped up because of it. But otherwise interesting characters and a well developed plot makes it an enjoyable read.
A few things didn't sit quite right with the story, sort of like the author wrote things out of order and didn't quite fix inconsistencies that cropped up because of it. But otherwise interesting characters and a well developed plot makes it an enjoyable read.
April 10, 2017
Incredible
I enjoyed this book. A lot of history and clean romance. The story was intertwined with suspense and a lot of surprises. It's a page turner!
I enjoyed this book. A lot of history and clean romance. The story was intertwined with suspense and a lot of surprises. It's a page turner!
April 19, 2017
A terrific book that holds your interest from beginning to end. Only thing left hanging wa Stephens story. Maybe it will be another book. I look forward to reading more by this author. Thanks for many enjoyable hours.
April 26, 2017
A good read!
I enjoyed this book. First time reading a book by this author, but now will search for more. Hopefully there is a sequel.
I enjoyed this book. First time reading a book by this author, but now will search for more. Hopefully there is a sequel.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews