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След дълги години на бойното поле Мерик дьо Бокур копнее за спокоен живот с покорна съпруга до себе си. Когато обаче довежда бъдещата си булка от един уединен английски манастир, той разбира, че ще му е нужно нещо повече от рицарските шпори, за да внесе ред и спокойствие в живота си.
Когато на петнайсетгодишна възраст я сгодяват за легендарния английски рицар, лейди Клио от Кемроуз още вярва, че любовта е някакво вълшебство. Девичите й мечти обаче повяхват през шестте дълги години в манастира без вест от Мерик.
Уморен от войни, лорд Мерик не успява да намери покой, докато охранява границите на дивия Уелс. Още по-тежко му става обаче в компанията на жената, чието доверие е загубил. Когато Лейди Клио започва да разбира по-добре мрачния рицар, за когото се е омъжила, тя вижда, че мечтите й биха могли да се сбъднат. Двамата ще поведат битка, за да открият мястото, където всичко е възможно - дори така рядката вълшебна любов...
Когато на петнайсетгодишна възраст я сгодяват за легендарния английски рицар, лейди Клио от Кемроуз още вярва, че любовта е някакво вълшебство. Девичите й мечти обаче повяхват през шестте дълги години в манастира без вест от Мерик.
Уморен от войни, лорд Мерик не успява да намери покой, докато охранява границите на дивия Уелс. Още по-тежко му става обаче в компанията на жената, чието доверие е загубил. Когато Лейди Клио започва да разбира по-добре мрачния рицар, за когото се е омъжила, тя вижда, че мечтите й биха могли да се сбъднат. Двамата ще поведат битка, за да открият мястото, където всичко е възможно - дори така рядката вълшебна любов...
218 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1997
1558 people are currently reading
1969 people want to read
About the author
Jill Barnett
46 books544 followersNew York Times Bestselling Author Jill Barnett is master storyteller known for her beautifully-written love stories rich with humor, emotion, and poignancy. She is the winner of Lifetime Achievement Awards for Love and Laughter and Historical Romance and is a six-time Romance Writers of America RITA nominee and winner of both a Persie Award for Literature and a Waldenbooks Award. Her books have been named Best of the Year by Dallas Morning News, Detroit Free Press, and Kirkus Review and she was the first historical romance author to ever receive a starred review from Publishers Weekly. She stands alongside Judith McNaught as one of only two authors to ever receive a six-star review from Affaire de Coeur Magazine and her work has been published in 23 languages and appeared on numerous bestseller lists. She lives in the PNW with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 263 reviews
March 26, 2018
That was a surprise. I was thinking I was going to hate the male in the book, but ended up hating the female instead. Well, just so long as there was someone to hate, I'm happy.
You and me both, Grumpy Cat. Have I mentioned that I hate cats?
So, we have Garrett, who is a knight in these medieval times and is on his way to meet his bride for the wedding. He has been doing knightish stuff for the past six years while his betrothed lived in a convent probably learning how to hit knuckles with rulers. It's an art, you know. Also, there's no better place than a nunnery to learn how to be a good wife. They are the experts on how to please men.
She's kinda hot, huh?
Clio, our heroine, is pretty pissed off about having been sitting on the shelf all those years. So, she does what all good wives do when they're angry with their man - passive aggressively makes his life miserable. It's a good system.
So, at first, I was hating the dude, Garrett. He was a total alpha douche who actually forced her first kiss upon her in anger. He was super aggressive and condescending and stab-worthy. I was pissed.
Yes, this pissed.
But, then he totally redeemed himself and became a real sweetheart of a guy. So, he went from alpha-asshole to reformed bad boy. So much sexier of a trope!
At the same time, Clio turned into a dumbass. She had previously left the fortress grounds when he told her not to and was hurt by raiders outside the castle. She put a lot of people in danger, and some men were killed saving her. But, what does she do as soon as she's better? Leaves the grounds again without telling her hubs. If this were a movie screen, and I were a sassy black woman, I would have yelled and thrown my popcorn at it! What a moron! And, that wasn't her only moronic moment. She acted like a 12-year old girl half the time. Just completely selfish and stupid.
Of course, this was medieval times. Maybe she was a teenager. This is also the time period where the church decreed that since hair spouted from our brains, you could tell a lot about a woman by her hair color. She's a redhead? Fiery. She's got brown hair? Unimaginative and boring. Black hair? Devious and sinful. Blondes were considered perfect. So, men liked blondes? What a fucking surprise!
Blonde AND a smug cat? Urge to kill rising...
Next thing the church will be telling them is that big boobs are a gift from God.
I wonder how many women were burned at the stake for wondering what it meant when a man was bald. I mean, if hair spouts from the brain, wouldn't no hair mean no brain?
I'm guessing the church had an answer for that. Something extremely stupid and misogynistic.
So, judging by the time period, Garrett was probably a very enlightened man with a teenaged bride, and they lived in filth until they died of something stupid.
Still, it was a cute, sweet, and funny HR.
You and me both, Grumpy Cat. Have I mentioned that I hate cats?
So, we have Garrett, who is a knight in these medieval times and is on his way to meet his bride for the wedding. He has been doing knightish stuff for the past six years while his betrothed lived in a convent probably learning how to hit knuckles with rulers. It's an art, you know. Also, there's no better place than a nunnery to learn how to be a good wife. They are the experts on how to please men.
She's kinda hot, huh?
Clio, our heroine, is pretty pissed off about having been sitting on the shelf all those years. So, she does what all good wives do when they're angry with their man - passive aggressively makes his life miserable. It's a good system.
So, at first, I was hating the dude, Garrett. He was a total alpha douche who actually forced her first kiss upon her in anger. He was super aggressive and condescending and stab-worthy. I was pissed.
Yes, this pissed.
But, then he totally redeemed himself and became a real sweetheart of a guy. So, he went from alpha-asshole to reformed bad boy. So much sexier of a trope!
At the same time, Clio turned into a dumbass. She had previously left the fortress grounds when he told her not to and was hurt by raiders outside the castle. She put a lot of people in danger, and some men were killed saving her. But, what does she do as soon as she's better? Leaves the grounds again without telling her hubs. If this were a movie screen, and I were a sassy black woman, I would have yelled and thrown my popcorn at it! What a moron! And, that wasn't her only moronic moment. She acted like a 12-year old girl half the time. Just completely selfish and stupid.
Of course, this was medieval times. Maybe she was a teenager. This is also the time period where the church decreed that since hair spouted from our brains, you could tell a lot about a woman by her hair color. She's a redhead? Fiery. She's got brown hair? Unimaginative and boring. Black hair? Devious and sinful. Blondes were considered perfect. So, men liked blondes? What a fucking surprise!
Blonde AND a smug cat? Urge to kill rising...
Next thing the church will be telling them is that big boobs are a gift from God.
I wonder how many women were burned at the stake for wondering what it meant when a man was bald. I mean, if hair spouts from the brain, wouldn't no hair mean no brain?
I'm guessing the church had an answer for that. Something extremely stupid and misogynistic.
So, judging by the time period, Garrett was probably a very enlightened man with a teenaged bride, and they lived in filth until they died of something stupid.
Still, it was a cute, sweet, and funny HR.
November 5, 2016
This was a lovely medieval romance, a funny and yet very emotional read <3
The story - Lady Clio has waited for six years in a convent for the return of her fiancé Lord Merrick. She kept herself busy during the years by trying to make the legendary ale that would bring strength to anyone who drank it (something like Asterix and his potion XDXD), and nursing the grudge against her bethothed who left her waiting
Lord Merrick returns, and finds his wife to be is nothing like he expected. Well, he didn't actually expect anything, just a female would do to him, but after meeting her, he realises his life will be difficult. Very, very difficult. For Lady Clio is a real mischief maker, always with some brilliant idea that turns out catastrophical, and with no real notion of the danger they are all in, considering the constant attacks on the castle.
So basically, Merrick is there to take over her land that has passed to him, build a stronger castle, and marry the damn woman that makes him so crazy
Merrick - I'd say he has a short temper, but actually it isn't that short considering what triggers it all the time
I sypmathize with him completely, poor man
Returning from the war, only to find a woman who can't be controlled (ok that isn't so great but hell, it's war outside) that gets herself and the whole castle in trouble repeatedly, and more or less poisons them all several times with bad concoctions that were supposed to be the legendary ale
Good thing for him, he actually likes her, and soon falls in love, so his poor nerves suffered throughout this whole book ahahah
Lady Clio - Well most was said above, she is wild and uncontrollable, always with some strange ideas that turn out to be terrible for other people, but somehow the consequences totally miss her. Lucky woman
Anyway, she holds a grudge toward Merrick, for keeping her waiting for six years in a convent. And she gets back at him for it. Constantly
Well, scenes with her were pretty much funny, even though I sometimes wanted to do this to her
but she gave the book some comedy, and I can't remember the last medieval that was this funny. And I love the moment when she realised that she didn't really understand the world around her, that it was all war and blood and terrible and all those kinds of things XD
Loved, loved the emotions between them, especially when it was Merrick in question, taking care of her when she was hit by the arrow. Absolutely fell in love with him
BUT! The last 10% or so was just over the top, some of the things that happened weren't necessary, didn't really have a point, only to enhance the angst and I don't know what. To build some tension? Whatever. I could do without all that. That's why it's one star down, to four.
Still, I really enjoyed reading this, and that's the important thing. I was looking for a light and lovely historical, I got that, with humour and great romance
But if you're looking for a smart read, this isn't it XDXD And try not to get irritated by the heroine XD
Yay Roger's book is next, can't wait
The story - Lady Clio has waited for six years in a convent for the return of her fiancé Lord Merrick. She kept herself busy during the years by trying to make the legendary ale that would bring strength to anyone who drank it (something like Asterix and his potion XDXD), and nursing the grudge against her bethothed who left her waiting
Lord Merrick returns, and finds his wife to be is nothing like he expected. Well, he didn't actually expect anything, just a female would do to him, but after meeting her, he realises his life will be difficult. Very, very difficult. For Lady Clio is a real mischief maker, always with some brilliant idea that turns out catastrophical, and with no real notion of the danger they are all in, considering the constant attacks on the castle.
So basically, Merrick is there to take over her land that has passed to him, build a stronger castle, and marry the damn woman that makes him so crazy
Merrick - I'd say he has a short temper, but actually it isn't that short considering what triggers it all the time
I sypmathize with him completely, poor man
Returning from the war, only to find a woman who can't be controlled (ok that isn't so great but hell, it's war outside) that gets herself and the whole castle in trouble repeatedly, and more or less poisons them all several times with bad concoctions that were supposed to be the legendary ale
Good thing for him, he actually likes her, and soon falls in love, so his poor nerves suffered throughout this whole book ahahah
Lady Clio - Well most was said above, she is wild and uncontrollable, always with some strange ideas that turn out to be terrible for other people, but somehow the consequences totally miss her. Lucky woman
Anyway, she holds a grudge toward Merrick, for keeping her waiting for six years in a convent. And she gets back at him for it. Constantly
Well, scenes with her were pretty much funny, even though I sometimes wanted to do this to her
but she gave the book some comedy, and I can't remember the last medieval that was this funny. And I love the moment when she realised that she didn't really understand the world around her, that it was all war and blood and terrible and all those kinds of things XD Loved, loved the emotions between them, especially when it was Merrick in question, taking care of her when she was hit by the arrow. Absolutely fell in love with him
BUT! The last 10% or so was just over the top, some of the things that happened weren't necessary, didn't really have a point, only to enhance the angst and I don't know what. To build some tension? Whatever. I could do without all that. That's why it's one star down, to four.
Still, I really enjoyed reading this, and that's the important thing. I was looking for a light and lovely historical, I got that, with humour and great romance
But if you're looking for a smart read, this isn't it XDXD And try not to get irritated by the heroine XDYay Roger's book is next, can't wait
March 28, 2018
I'm sad to say that I didn't enjoy this as much as I'd hoped. It wasn't a bad story, and it was even fun at times, but I did have some issues that I couldn't ignore after a while.
The characters and their personalities began to bore me halfway through. They never really developed, and their relationship suffered as a result. One second they would be at odds, and a few scenes later everything was fine. Except they never resolved their issues through conversation. When they did talk, they hashed out nothing. Then they were in love, but it didn't make sense since they never discussed anything.
This same thing happened with big events and plot points throughout the novel. Such things were glossed over or just skipped completely. Like when Merrick goes to get flour for Clio, it's only mentioned in passing after the fact. There's nothing about him deciding to do it, or about his two-day absence. Or when the Welsh break into the castle and take it over, there's nothing about how they're driven out. Everything is back to normal in the next scene. Or when Merrick, who was a pretty big jerk,
This type of thing made for a rather jarring and confusing reading experience at times.
Lastly, this wasn't a steamy read at all, in case anyone's wondering. That's not necessarily a deal breaker, but sex scenes can be useful for furthering relationship development. So this ended up being kind of a shallow read for me.
Thanks to Nenia, Maraya, and Korey for the buddy read!
The characters and their personalities began to bore me halfway through. They never really developed, and their relationship suffered as a result. One second they would be at odds, and a few scenes later everything was fine. Except they never resolved their issues through conversation. When they did talk, they hashed out nothing. Then they were in love, but it didn't make sense since they never discussed anything.
This same thing happened with big events and plot points throughout the novel. Such things were glossed over or just skipped completely. Like when Merrick goes to get flour for Clio, it's only mentioned in passing after the fact. There's nothing about him deciding to do it, or about his two-day absence. Or when the Welsh break into the castle and take it over, there's nothing about how they're driven out. Everything is back to normal in the next scene. Or when Merrick, who was a pretty big jerk,
This type of thing made for a rather jarring and confusing reading experience at times.
Lastly, this wasn't a steamy read at all, in case anyone's wondering. That's not necessarily a deal breaker, but sex scenes can be useful for furthering relationship development. So this ended up being kind of a shallow read for me.
Thanks to Nenia, Maraya, and Korey for the buddy read!
July 2, 2022
🌟 Buddy Read with "I Have No Middle Settings" Nenia, "Awkward Last Minute Addition" Heather & "Your Friendly Neighbourhood Stranger Danger" Korey 🌟
Welp, that was disappointing. *le sigh*
If you asked me to sum up this book in one gif - which you haven't but I'm going to do it anyway cause I want to - it would be this:
It. Is. Such. A. Perfect. Fit.
I am not an Era reader like Nenia & Heather and possibly Korey, whoever she is. I have read like two Era/Regency books thus far in my damned existence and with this one it will be three.
I know. So, I was super excited when I started reading and saw that this started out strong. And because I was super excited 'twas only natural that it all went to hell in a fucking hand basket.
Let me not elaborate shit for you all: The characters were strong, maybe a bit too strong, and real for the era. I did like them all. The problem was the story, as there was none.
No matter how much I liked the characters it can only carry so far when there is no plot. And the last nail in the coffin was the fact that all the "danger/drama/excitement/supposed plot furthering shit" started happening after the 86% and went so fast it broke the sound barrier.
And boom - book is over.
I am sorry but no.
Like always I am hoping this will not happen in the next two books. I am nto holding my breath over it though.
Now excuse me while I go and have me some mighty fine ale.
The Tale of the Alewife
My wife she was a brewer,
I brought her barley malt,
She turned it into magic ale,
Instead of what she ought.
But no one yet did realize,
The power of the brew,
For they gulped it down.
Without a frown.
Or even one small clue.
—13th-century Welsh Folklore
Welp, that was disappointing. *le sigh*
If you asked me to sum up this book in one gif - which you haven't but I'm going to do it anyway cause I want to - it would be this:
It. Is. Such. A. Perfect. Fit.
I am not an Era reader like Nenia & Heather and possibly Korey, whoever she is. I have read like two Era/Regency books thus far in my damned existence and with this one it will be three.
I know. So, I was super excited when I started reading and saw that this started out strong. And because I was super excited 'twas only natural that it all went to hell in a fucking hand basket.
Let me not elaborate shit for you all: The characters were strong, maybe a bit too strong, and real for the era. I did like them all. The problem was the story, as there was none.
No matter how much I liked the characters it can only carry so far when there is no plot. And the last nail in the coffin was the fact that all the "danger/drama/excitement/supposed plot furthering shit" started happening after the 86% and went so fast it broke the sound barrier.
And boom - book is over.
I am sorry but no.
Like always I am hoping this will not happen in the next two books. I am nto holding my breath over it though.
Now excuse me while I go and have me some mighty fine ale.
December 4, 2025
This medieval story had wit and romance.
Gave it 5 stars.
Warrior Lord Merrick, "the Red Lion" was weary
of war & wanted to wed Lady Clio, & settle down
to a quite life. Wooing a lady was new to him,
bawdy women being his expertise. Lady C wanted
validation for her intelligence, not her skills or looks.
She was an ale maker. Also she had a pet hawk and
a one-eyed cat.
Lady C called her intended, then husband Lord M
"Earl of Hardheads" and "Earl of Quick Feet."
Ultimately our hero used creative yet simple ways
to show his growing love and affection. Bravo!
********************
She also called him "Earl of Warmongers, Orders,
Lips, Grumps, etc."
Gave it 5 stars.
Warrior Lord Merrick, "the Red Lion" was weary
of war & wanted to wed Lady Clio, & settle down
to a quite life. Wooing a lady was new to him,
bawdy women being his expertise. Lady C wanted
validation for her intelligence, not her skills or looks.
She was an ale maker. Also she had a pet hawk and
a one-eyed cat.
Lady C called her intended, then husband Lord M
"Earl of Hardheads" and "Earl of Quick Feet."
Ultimately our hero used creative yet simple ways
to show his growing love and affection. Bravo!
********************
She also called him "Earl of Warmongers, Orders,
Lips, Grumps, etc."
July 13, 2020
So cute and funny. I loved it!!
May 12, 2018
2.5 stars.
I liked the writing, the dual povs, and the lack of OP drama. I found myself not even minding the modern language since the historical details made up for it. However, I didn't really find myself compelled by either MC. The h seemed, most of the time, like a selfish, out of control shrew. The H had the emotions of a wall. And the kicker was that neither of them knew how to communicate properly. Passive aggressiveness and barking orders are not really good ways to form a strong relationship with your spouse-to-be and yet that's how the MCs spend most of this book.
I found myself feeling pretty frustrated since this story could have been much better. I can't believe I'm saying this, but I think that the author could have developed a couple aspects of this story even more had it been longer. (Believe me, I'm shocked too.) I might give the third book a try, but I'm skipping the second one since rakes gross me out.
I liked the writing, the dual povs, and the lack of OP drama. I found myself not even minding the modern language since the historical details made up for it. However, I didn't really find myself compelled by either MC. The h seemed, most of the time, like a selfish, out of control shrew. The H had the emotions of a wall. And the kicker was that neither of them knew how to communicate properly. Passive aggressiveness and barking orders are not really good ways to form a strong relationship with your spouse-to-be and yet that's how the MCs spend most of this book.
I found myself feeling pretty frustrated since this story could have been much better. I can't believe I'm saying this, but I think that the author could have developed a couple aspects of this story even more had it been longer. (Believe me, I'm shocked too.) I might give the third book a try, but I'm skipping the second one since rakes gross me out.
July 5, 2022
This was such a good story…until it wasn’t
This was a solid 4.5 Star story-loved the angst and the witty banter. Then after the MC gets married, the last 20% of the story just totally ruined it. My advice…if you read this book, stop reading once they are married. The additional content in the last 18-20% does NOT add to the story or the character arc. Additionally as a medical professional I just can’t accept the inaccurate content included as the author decides to drag out a story that was IMO already finished. The best thing the author or publisher could do is to heavily revise this books ending and remove all the nonsense.
2 Stars ⭐️⭐️
This was a solid 4.5 Star story-loved the angst and the witty banter. Then after the MC gets married, the last 20% of the story just totally ruined it. My advice…if you read this book, stop reading once they are married. The additional content in the last 18-20% does NOT add to the story or the character arc. Additionally as a medical professional I just can’t accept the inaccurate content included as the author decides to drag out a story that was IMO already finished. The best thing the author or publisher could do is to heavily revise this books ending and remove all the nonsense.
2 Stars ⭐️⭐️
June 10, 2023
3.5 stars. A very good read!
My first book by this author, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Great MCs and a nicely detailed and vividly described setting. There was more humour than I expected and I found the emotional connection between Clio and Merrick quite moving.
Mediaeval romance is often annoying, with the very narrow lives ladies were forced to live and the rigid patriarchal society, deliberately kept ignorant by a misogynist Catholic church, so it was lovely to see the kind of relationship the MCs developed over time. No insta-love, but a passionate love, based as much on liking and respect as it was on lust and attraction.
Clio was a fighter, so while Merrick had his work cut out trying to understand her independent, lively nature, she was able to tap into the sensitivity and depth of feeling that a battle-hardened knight like Merrick had not even realised he possessed.
If you are a bit over the selfish Alpha stereotypes and doormat women that CR and NA seems to be populated with lately, you will probably find this a refreshing change. (And there is no bdsm, thank goodness. 50 shades needs to atone for all the masochistic shit that is around in so-called romance novels these days! 🤮 To each, their own, I guess.)
Very happy to go on to the next book in the series and will check out the author’s backlist.
My first book by this author, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Great MCs and a nicely detailed and vividly described setting. There was more humour than I expected and I found the emotional connection between Clio and Merrick quite moving.
Mediaeval romance is often annoying, with the very narrow lives ladies were forced to live and the rigid patriarchal society, deliberately kept ignorant by a misogynist Catholic church, so it was lovely to see the kind of relationship the MCs developed over time. No insta-love, but a passionate love, based as much on liking and respect as it was on lust and attraction.
Clio was a fighter, so while Merrick had his work cut out trying to understand her independent, lively nature, she was able to tap into the sensitivity and depth of feeling that a battle-hardened knight like Merrick had not even realised he possessed.
If you are a bit over the selfish Alpha stereotypes and doormat women that CR and NA seems to be populated with lately, you will probably find this a refreshing change. (And there is no bdsm, thank goodness. 50 shades needs to atone for all the masochistic shit that is around in so-called romance novels these days! 🤮 To each, their own, I guess.)
Very happy to go on to the next book in the series and will check out the author’s backlist.
tbr-later
March 23, 2018Free on Kindle right now
May 17, 2022
"Wonderful" by Jill Barnett was an okay read that I thought started off too slow and a bit confusing. You have this independent woman who sole purpose in life is based off the color of her hair that determines her destiny in life. Then there is the hero, who waits almost six years to come fetch his bride...and she bolts from the convent that she has lived during that time. After the slow start, it gradually picked up and then slowed back down again closer to the end. I am chalking this one up to the fact that it is an older novel and was probably good at the time of publishing. I am glad I did finish the read instead of DNF because of the slow start.
September 1, 2014
(Aug) 2,5* Years ago I read a short story by JB that I loved, found it hysterical. Shortly after, I bought this trilogy and the books have been languishing on my shelves ever since. When I decided to pick this up a few days ago, I was looking forward to a fun, enjoyable medieval highland read. Alas, 'twas not to be.
Lady Clio has been exiled to a convent to await her betrothed, Merrick. At first, she appears to be a quirky, strong-minded woman who will not let any man get the best of her. When her knight shows up two years late to pick her up, she runs off to her castle to await him there. Their first meeting - where she is imagining how she will greet him, not knowing he's standing in the doorway watching her antics, is probably the only time I smiled in this book.
There just was no connection between the two. There was a running story line about Clio making the perfect ale, but that never really went anywhere, other than one bad mistake which angers Merrick enough that he burns down her ale house. There are two dimwitted orphans who seem like they are going to be a part of the story, but then they pretty much disappear. There are no other female characters to speak of, other than one old lady who is witch-like and a brief appearance by the Queen. Clio's beloved bird disappears, and she does not seem to care (although I have a feeling both bird and Merrick's horse, which Clio lost, will show up in Roger's book). The worst was that everything in this book just seemed to meander. There was no good dialogue. This book was the epitome of telling and no showing. Merrick and Clio barely speak - no real fights, no seeing them fall in love - we are told there are feelings, and there are a few sexy times, but again, no connection. The ending made no sense - one minute Merrick is mad, then he's gone, then the castle is taken over, then Clio escapes, then she's caught, then Merrick saves her, then he's sick for A YEAR (or so), then he's awake and fine and the end. Thankfully there was an epilogue, but even that was just a summing up of parts, and neither Merrick nor Clio really even appear much in the epilogue (all we learn is they have children).
I have never felt so disconnected to a book - I kept waiting for the story to happen. While it was readable, it certainly was not Wonderful.
Lady Clio has been exiled to a convent to await her betrothed, Merrick. At first, she appears to be a quirky, strong-minded woman who will not let any man get the best of her. When her knight shows up two years late to pick her up, she runs off to her castle to await him there. Their first meeting - where she is imagining how she will greet him, not knowing he's standing in the doorway watching her antics, is probably the only time I smiled in this book.
There just was no connection between the two. There was a running story line about Clio making the perfect ale, but that never really went anywhere, other than one bad mistake which angers Merrick enough that he burns down her ale house. There are two dimwitted orphans who seem like they are going to be a part of the story, but then they pretty much disappear. There are no other female characters to speak of, other than one old lady who is witch-like and a brief appearance by the Queen. Clio's beloved bird disappears, and she does not seem to care (although I have a feeling both bird and Merrick's horse, which Clio lost, will show up in Roger's book). The worst was that everything in this book just seemed to meander. There was no good dialogue. This book was the epitome of telling and no showing. Merrick and Clio barely speak - no real fights, no seeing them fall in love - we are told there are feelings, and there are a few sexy times, but again, no connection. The ending made no sense - one minute Merrick is mad, then he's gone, then the castle is taken over, then Clio escapes, then she's caught, then Merrick saves her, then he's sick for A YEAR (or so), then he's awake and fine and the end. Thankfully there was an epilogue, but even that was just a summing up of parts, and neither Merrick nor Clio really even appear much in the epilogue (all we learn is they have children).
I have never felt so disconnected to a book - I kept waiting for the story to happen. While it was readable, it certainly was not Wonderful.
August 2, 2013
This had the potential to be cute fluff.
Clio is a Disney Princess, complete with eccentric pet cat, eccentric pet bird, eccentric pet Druid witch, and eccentric pet worshipful orphans.
Merrick demonstrated a sense of humor that made me buy the book. ("You've never seen your bride to be? What if she has a beard?" "Then I'll teach her to shave." Good on ya, sir.)
Unfortunately, proximity to one another brought out the worst in them.
Clio becomes overwhelmed with feminine angst ("I'm a poor oppressed female!" despite no evidence she's ever been restricted in any way), spiteful ("He kept me waiting two years longer than promised, so I'm never showing up on time for him ever!"), and grossly irresponsible ("How dare he forbid me to leave the castle unescorted to wander the war-torn borderlands? I'll steal his horse and sneak out!"). That's not "spirited"; it's childish.
Merrick's favorite pastime is thinking about throwing Clio out a window, locking her in a tower, or strangling her (a lot). I could sympathize with a single wistful longing to lock her up for the safety of herself and others, but repeated fantasies of violence toward women are NOT CUTE.
Pages and pages describing food and home décor.
Tons of internalization (since god forbid any thoughts or feelings should be vocalized), yet emotion was kept at a distance even while internal monologuing.
Events that seemed emotionally significant happened offscreen and were thrown away in one-line afterthoughts. (i.e., He upset her, felt bad about it, went out on an errand that must have been lowering for a mighty warrior in order to make it up to her, and instead of showing the kick in the pride he's willing to take to make her happy again, ALL we hear about is "She learned he'd spent the past two days scouring the countryside for flour.")
Clio is a Disney Princess, complete with eccentric pet cat, eccentric pet bird, eccentric pet Druid witch, and eccentric pet worshipful orphans.
Merrick demonstrated a sense of humor that made me buy the book. ("You've never seen your bride to be? What if she has a beard?" "Then I'll teach her to shave." Good on ya, sir.)
Unfortunately, proximity to one another brought out the worst in them.
Clio becomes overwhelmed with feminine angst ("I'm a poor oppressed female!" despite no evidence she's ever been restricted in any way), spiteful ("He kept me waiting two years longer than promised, so I'm never showing up on time for him ever!"), and grossly irresponsible ("How dare he forbid me to leave the castle unescorted to wander the war-torn borderlands? I'll steal his horse and sneak out!"). That's not "spirited"; it's childish.
Merrick's favorite pastime is thinking about throwing Clio out a window, locking her in a tower, or strangling her (a lot). I could sympathize with a single wistful longing to lock her up for the safety of herself and others, but repeated fantasies of violence toward women are NOT CUTE.
Pages and pages describing food and home décor.
Tons of internalization (since god forbid any thoughts or feelings should be vocalized), yet emotion was kept at a distance even while internal monologuing.
Events that seemed emotionally significant happened offscreen and were thrown away in one-line afterthoughts. (i.e., He upset her, felt bad about it, went out on an errand that must have been lowering for a mighty warrior in order to make it up to her, and instead of showing the kick in the pride he's willing to take to make her happy again, ALL we hear about is "She learned he'd spent the past two days scouring the countryside for flour.")
February 21, 2014
The secret of WONDERFUL is in its goofiness. Think of a frothy top on a whipped latte. It is not a historical romance in the true sense because of how the heroine behaved. What occurred within the pages would have most likely never have happened in 13th century Great Britain.
For Lady Clio of Camrose it was about breaking the rules. Somewhat spoiled by her widowed father, she was left orphaned at the age of fifteen. King Edward, her official guardian, betrothed her to Lord Merrick de Beaucourt. Because he was performing duties for the king, she was sent to a convent to live until Merrick could come for her. Per King Edward, it was for her own protection.
After six long years Merrick is finished with crusading and has returned home to claim his bride. Except she is nothing like he had ever envisioned. Beautiful but stubborn, Clio is mad at him for not coming for her sooner. And she gives him holy grief for being late.
For the remaining bulk of the story, it is about their courtship. A one-eyed cat, a hawk that does not know how to fly, an old woman who thinks she is a Druid, a monk who blathers constantly and two young bumbling brothers named Thud and Thwack are just a few of the characters that affect their engagement. Both lighthearted and silly, I enjoyed Merrick and Clio's bumbling even though I had expected more from the story.
For Lady Clio of Camrose it was about breaking the rules. Somewhat spoiled by her widowed father, she was left orphaned at the age of fifteen. King Edward, her official guardian, betrothed her to Lord Merrick de Beaucourt. Because he was performing duties for the king, she was sent to a convent to live until Merrick could come for her. Per King Edward, it was for her own protection.
After six long years Merrick is finished with crusading and has returned home to claim his bride. Except she is nothing like he had ever envisioned. Beautiful but stubborn, Clio is mad at him for not coming for her sooner. And she gives him holy grief for being late.
For the remaining bulk of the story, it is about their courtship. A one-eyed cat, a hawk that does not know how to fly, an old woman who thinks she is a Druid, a monk who blathers constantly and two young bumbling brothers named Thud and Thwack are just a few of the characters that affect their engagement. Both lighthearted and silly, I enjoyed Merrick and Clio's bumbling even though I had expected more from the story.
January 11, 2025
This had the crumbs of a good story, but it didn’t feel like I was reading a final draft. The author fell victim to telling the reader, rather than showing the reader. There was some stuff mentioned and then never brought up again, and other parts of the story that didn’t seem like it was fully fleshed out. There were other parts of story that felt like it just didn’t need so much explanation.
I like most of the characters. The side characters were fine. As typical with men written by women, I liked the hero, Merrick. There wasn’t really anything special about him, but he was a perfectly fine romance hero. Tuff, quiet , and stern, but with a sweet side. Clio, the heroine, was who I had issues with.I enjoyed the idea of Clio being a brewer of ale, since that was an acceptable job for Medieval women, but that about all I liked about her. I originally thought she had the energy of an eight year-old with ADHD, but that seemed insulting to eight years-old with ADHD. She is the personification of a dumb bitch. She was very childish and spiteful. And it isn’t the kind of childish that can be explained away by a teen heroine. She’s at least 21 years-old based on the timeline of the book, which is young I guess, but still a grown-ass adult. She is never grateful for anything, instead feels the need to get revenge over Merrick for things he really had no control over. Also, she did brown face. On page 109, she darkens her skin to to dress up a “Turkish infidel” for a disguise. It was definitely a choice and kind of took me by surprise. I think its supposed to be this funny hijinx, but I guess I’m just too modern of a reader to find it amusing. Besides being racist, it was an odd choice for disguise in medieval Wales. The descriptions of some of the Welsh people also seemed off to me. I can accept some things, like when Clio come across a group of Welsh men in a Welsh forest, they would react possibly violently to Clio, and English woman. But I thought there was over emphasis on some on the Welsh people being savage and animalistic.
I didn’t think the romance part was that great either. There was no burning, or really much of any connection between Merrick and Clio. We’re told they lust after each other, and love each other eventually, but it’s never really shown. Merrick just seems to have romantic feelings toward Clio, but there is no why when, why, or how regarding these feelings. Clio just seems horny, without any deep yearning. Overall this book fell flat. There were some cute moments, and I especially enjoyed the parts that don’t involve Clio. I kept reading hoping it would get better and there would be some character growth, but I was left wanting. The next book in the series does look interesting so I might give this author another shot someday, but I was left disappointed with book.
I like most of the characters. The side characters were fine. As typical with men written by women, I liked the hero, Merrick. There wasn’t really anything special about him, but he was a perfectly fine romance hero. Tuff, quiet , and stern, but with a sweet side. Clio, the heroine, was who I had issues with.I enjoyed the idea of Clio being a brewer of ale, since that was an acceptable job for Medieval women, but that about all I liked about her. I originally thought she had the energy of an eight year-old with ADHD, but that seemed insulting to eight years-old with ADHD. She is the personification of a dumb bitch. She was very childish and spiteful. And it isn’t the kind of childish that can be explained away by a teen heroine. She’s at least 21 years-old based on the timeline of the book, which is young I guess, but still a grown-ass adult. She is never grateful for anything, instead feels the need to get revenge over Merrick for things he really had no control over. Also, she did brown face. On page 109, she darkens her skin to to dress up a “Turkish infidel” for a disguise. It was definitely a choice and kind of took me by surprise. I think its supposed to be this funny hijinx, but I guess I’m just too modern of a reader to find it amusing. Besides being racist, it was an odd choice for disguise in medieval Wales. The descriptions of some of the Welsh people also seemed off to me. I can accept some things, like when Clio come across a group of Welsh men in a Welsh forest, they would react possibly violently to Clio, and English woman. But I thought there was over emphasis on some on the Welsh people being savage and animalistic.
I didn’t think the romance part was that great either. There was no burning, or really much of any connection between Merrick and Clio. We’re told they lust after each other, and love each other eventually, but it’s never really shown. Merrick just seems to have romantic feelings toward Clio, but there is no why when, why, or how regarding these feelings. Clio just seems horny, without any deep yearning. Overall this book fell flat. There were some cute moments, and I especially enjoyed the parts that don’t involve Clio. I kept reading hoping it would get better and there would be some character growth, but I was left wanting. The next book in the series does look interesting so I might give this author another shot someday, but I was left disappointed with book.
March 30, 2018
Buddy read with Nenia, Heather and Maraya :)
This book tricked me. I think Barnett has a pleasant, easy way of writing that makes it simple to keep turning the pages. Her writing kind of glides along in a reader friendly way and you get lulled into some kind of reading trance. I know my Goodreads clock says I read this over a week but in fact I read most of it in one sitting tonight, and for a while initially I thought I liked it in a low key, 3 star kind of way because of the breezy style.
However, as I pressed on I realized there is just not a lot here. This boring and disjointed. The romance is not romantic. It begs to be skimmed rather than savored. This is not bad enough to make me angry or anything but it's bland enough to be almost instantly forgotten.
This book tricked me. I think Barnett has a pleasant, easy way of writing that makes it simple to keep turning the pages. Her writing kind of glides along in a reader friendly way and you get lulled into some kind of reading trance. I know my Goodreads clock says I read this over a week but in fact I read most of it in one sitting tonight, and for a while initially I thought I liked it in a low key, 3 star kind of way because of the breezy style.
However, as I pressed on I realized there is just not a lot here. This boring and disjointed. The romance is not romantic. It begs to be skimmed rather than savored. This is not bad enough to make me angry or anything but it's bland enough to be almost instantly forgotten.
February 3, 2022
Quick update! finished. I basically loved it up to 75% then the most dramatic thing happened for literally no reason and i skimmed through the end lol.
Ok I’m 25% through and I’m loving this. I didn’t even read the blurb properly so I went back and was shocked to see this was written in the 90s!!! I usually hate old HRs but this is so fun and doesn’t take itself too seriously. THIS IS MY FAVORITE TYPE OF BOOK!! NO INTELLECT JUST VIBES AND LAUGHS.
Ok I’m 25% through and I’m loving this. I didn’t even read the blurb properly so I went back and was shocked to see this was written in the 90s!!! I usually hate old HRs but this is so fun and doesn’t take itself too seriously. THIS IS MY FAVORITE TYPE OF BOOK!! NO INTELLECT JUST VIBES AND LAUGHS.
February 18, 2025
Сър Мерик/Червеният лъв и лейди Клео
📣🚨🛑РЕВЮ СЪДЪРЖАЩО СПОЙЛЕРИ🛑🚨📣
Лейди Клео е сгодена за рицарят с прозвището Червения Лъв. Изпратена в манастир, тя трябва да чака 4 години, докато нейният годеник дойде, за да я отведе в дома й и да се омъжи за нея. След като обаче минават 6 години, и той още не е пристигнал, Клео се бои, че рицаря е забравил за съществуването й. В манастира, тя се учи как да вари ейл и смята да открие рецептата за прословутия пиренов ейл, който по рецепта на друидите е давал неземна сила на онзи, който пие от него (поне така описано си го представям, като отварата която пиеха Астерикс и Облеикс.)
Мерик, Червения Лъв е велик воин. Непрестанно изпращан по задачи от своя крал, сега след 6 години той най-после е готов да се прибере у дома, да вземе хрисимата си малка годеница и да я отведе на границата с Уелс, където е готов да започне идеаличен и скучен живот като всеки обикновен благородник.
Само дето с Клео никога нищо не е скучно. Тя прави живота му адски сложен, объркан и много забавен. С непрестанните си "великолепни" хрумвания и "чудесни" идеи, Клео не стига че обърква подредения живот на Мерик, ами е и твърдо решена да го накаже за 2-те години забавяне в които го е чакала да я пробере от манастира.
Книжката беше адски забавна, и то не само заради самата история, ама и заради превода. Преводача има много забавен и колоритен стил на писане, който допринася книгата да бъде едно малко бижу, което те кара да се смееш още от първите страници. Забавна и лека, в нея обаче не липсваха напрегнати и дори тъжни моменти, които пълнеха очите ми със сълзи. И все пак, странните герои в книгата, нелепите ситуации и пиперливите диалози, правят тази книга много запомняща се и супер интересна. Препоръчвам горещо.
📣🚨🛑РЕВЮ СЪДЪРЖАЩО СПОЙЛЕРИ🛑🚨📣
Лейди Клео е сгодена за рицарят с прозвището Червения Лъв. Изпратена в манастир, тя трябва да чака 4 години, докато нейният годеник дойде, за да я отведе в дома й и да се омъжи за нея. След като обаче минават 6 години, и той още не е пристигнал, Клео се бои, че рицаря е забравил за съществуването й. В манастира, тя се учи как да вари ейл и смята да открие рецептата за прословутия пиренов ейл, който по рецепта на друидите е давал неземна сила на онзи, който пие от него (поне така описано си го представям, като отварата която пиеха Астерикс и Облеикс.)
Мерик, Червения Лъв е велик воин. Непрестанно изпращан по задачи от своя крал, сега след 6 години той най-после е готов да се прибере у дома, да вземе хрисимата си малка годеница и да я отведе на границата с Уелс, където е готов да започне идеаличен и скучен живот като всеки обикновен благородник.
Само дето с Клео никога нищо не е скучно. Тя прави живота му адски сложен, объркан и много забавен. С непрестанните си "великолепни" хрумвания и "чудесни" идеи, Клео не стига че обърква подредения живот на Мерик, ами е и твърдо решена да го накаже за 2-те години забавяне в които го е чакала да я пробере от манастира.
Книжката беше адски забавна, и то не само заради самата история, ама и заради превода. Преводача има много забавен и колоритен стил на писане, който допринася книгата да бъде едно малко бижу, което те кара да се смееш още от първите страници. Забавна и лека, в нея обаче не липсваха напрегнати и дори тъжни моменти, които пълнеха очите ми със сълзи. И все пак, странните герои в книгата, нелепите ситуации и пиперливите диалози, правят тази книга много запомняща се и супер интересна. Препоръчвам горещо.
March 19, 2022
WOW!!! Wonderful❤️❤️
I really loved this one! It was a wonderful read. The heroine hooked me from the start. She was funny, quirky, and original. She was feisty without being obnoxious. And I loved the hero—he was all m broody, dominant alpha goodness. And bonus points! NOT. A. MANWHORE!!!
All around a great read, even if there was a bit of sadness towards the end. See safety details below. However story didn’t stay stuck in the sucky, so it redeemed itself.
Safe. Hero’s past is barely mentioned and briefly when it is, hes been celibate for a while. Heroine is a virgin and gives the hero the gift of all her firsts to claim. No others, no cheating, no abuse. Possible trigger: heroine suffers miscarriage (later they have more children) and also kidnapping. No sexual assault occurs. HEA with epilogue years out.
I really loved this one! It was a wonderful read. The heroine hooked me from the start. She was funny, quirky, and original. She was feisty without being obnoxious. And I loved the hero—he was all m broody, dominant alpha goodness. And bonus points! NOT. A. MANWHORE!!!
All around a great read, even if there was a bit of sadness towards the end. See safety details below. However story didn’t stay stuck in the sucky, so it redeemed itself.
Safe. Hero’s past is barely mentioned and briefly when it is, hes been celibate for a while. Heroine is a virgin and gives the hero the gift of all her firsts to claim. No others, no cheating, no abuse. Possible trigger: heroine suffers miscarriage (later they have more children) and also kidnapping. No sexual assault occurs. HEA with epilogue years out.
December 30, 2017
This was part of a Boxed Set my cat accidentally bought while sitting down on my Kindle.
At first I was pleasantly surprised. I had a hard time with historical Romance lately, and this one at least got my interest. The heroine was rather sweet, and I liked the funny parts, and all that stuff about making ale.
I did finish the book. But. It did not really give me what I wanted. I am not entirely sure what was missing for me. Maybe it was the comparison with some of my favorite classic romances with very similar settings, maybe I just did not believe enough in the characters, and maybe the story was not strong enough.
Ah, and by the way: what happened to the horse and the bird? I'd probably have to read the other books in the trilogy to find out.
And after thinking a bit there was something that bothered me: the enemy. The Welsh are the bad guys. And they are not people. They just crop up in the story whenever a disturbance, a danger or a dramatic moment is needed. And then, after so much effort has gone into fortifying the castle, the Welsh just walk in and take it over. And the good guys cannot get in, having it built so well. But of course, there are secret passages...
Hm, the more I think about the book, the more inconsistencies I remember. I'll stop now or I'll have to take away a star.
At first I was pleasantly surprised. I had a hard time with historical Romance lately, and this one at least got my interest. The heroine was rather sweet, and I liked the funny parts, and all that stuff about making ale.
I did finish the book. But. It did not really give me what I wanted. I am not entirely sure what was missing for me. Maybe it was the comparison with some of my favorite classic romances with very similar settings, maybe I just did not believe enough in the characters, and maybe the story was not strong enough.
Ah, and by the way: what happened to the horse and the bird? I'd probably have to read the other books in the trilogy to find out.
And after thinking a bit there was something that bothered me: the enemy. The Welsh are the bad guys. And they are not people. They just crop up in the story whenever a disturbance, a danger or a dramatic moment is needed. And then, after so much effort has gone into fortifying the castle, the Welsh just walk in and take it over. And the good guys cannot get in, having it built so well. But of course, there are secret passages...
Hm, the more I think about the book, the more inconsistencies I remember. I'll stop now or I'll have to take away a star.
October 5, 2010
Here's another oldie but goodie I read and reviewed in 1997.
I enjoyed this book so much! WONDERFUL is enchanting, uplifting and has enough history to place you in the world she's created but not enough to feel like a boring history lesson. The details of ale making were fascinating. Her characters are lovable, and the secondary characters are well drawn and add to the fun (I can't wait for Roger's story!). Clio teaches Merrick how to laugh and love and their relationship develops slowly from one of irritation, to friendship, to desire and love. It's all done with such a tender hand that I couldn't stop the tears when I got to towards the end. Speaking of which, it takes an abrupt serious turn which may upset some looking for a pure love and laughter read. For me, this part made the love story all the more poignant. Like all the Barnett books I've read I laughed and cried and completely enjoyed myself. *Sigh* Do I really have to wait 6 months or so for the next one? (2010 Note: I don't think I ever read the next one, ugh I'm so bad that way.)
I enjoyed this book so much! WONDERFUL is enchanting, uplifting and has enough history to place you in the world she's created but not enough to feel like a boring history lesson. The details of ale making were fascinating. Her characters are lovable, and the secondary characters are well drawn and add to the fun (I can't wait for Roger's story!). Clio teaches Merrick how to laugh and love and their relationship develops slowly from one of irritation, to friendship, to desire and love. It's all done with such a tender hand that I couldn't stop the tears when I got to towards the end. Speaking of which, it takes an abrupt serious turn which may upset some looking for a pure love and laughter read. For me, this part made the love story all the more poignant. Like all the Barnett books I've read I laughed and cried and completely enjoyed myself. *Sigh* Do I really have to wait 6 months or so for the next one? (2010 Note: I don't think I ever read the next one, ugh I'm so bad that way.)
October 31, 2018
.
Contained information about the everyday life of an independent thinking woman in medieval times. She matures and experiences the deepest trials of love. There were some very quirky characters (human and animals), along with humorous situations that always make for good entertainment.
It was able to stand on its own, although part of a series. It was not completely clean, but it continued a captivating storyline that keeps the reader interested.
The epilogue depicts a thumbnail of information about the next generation, following a steadfast of determination in constant attention, then ending nicely with a miraculous happy ever.
Contained information about the everyday life of an independent thinking woman in medieval times. She matures and experiences the deepest trials of love. There were some very quirky characters (human and animals), along with humorous situations that always make for good entertainment.
It was able to stand on its own, although part of a series. It was not completely clean, but it continued a captivating storyline that keeps the reader interested.
The epilogue depicts a thumbnail of information about the next generation, following a steadfast of determination in constant attention, then ending nicely with a miraculous happy ever.
August 23, 2023
I'm having trouble deciding what to rate this book. I'm sorry but I just do not agree with all the 4&5 star ratings. It was very slow starting, at about page 70 I was considering throwing it in the dnf pile. Now that I've finished it, adding that it was a quick and easy read, i'm glad that I did finish this. The good parts ; the heroine was funny and mischievous. The author did a very nice job with her.
The plot was weak, slow and the ending was not connected to the rest of the book at all.
It read like a hand knit scarf that is long, stretched out and has lots of holes.
The plot was weak, slow and the ending was not connected to the rest of the book at all.
It read like a hand knit scarf that is long, stretched out and has lots of holes.
June 2, 2011
Started strong, but the story meandered too much. While there were a lot of cute little moments and a likable H/h, I kept waiting for the actual story to happen. I was close to giving it a four-star rating as it was entertaining despite being light on substance, but the ending felt off from the rest of the books light and humorous tone and left much unexplained. Ah well.
October 25, 2019
I really liked this! Lady Clio was sassy and funny! She brought out the best in Lord Merrick. Watching them fall in love was perfect :)
October 16, 2017
A bit of a bumpy ride, but good fun overall. I do so miss medieval settings.
October 13, 2012
Delightful First in the Medieval Trilogy
This is the first in Barnett’s medieval trilogy (WILD AND WICKED follow)—and I loved it! Barnett injects humor effortlessly into a very convincing medieval tale of a stubborn, rigid knight and his innovative unorthodox lady. It wasn’t forced humor either, but naturally came out of the heroine’s personality and often the hero’s reaction. The second half of the book is more serious and looks like a more classic medieval romance. There are also some wonderful side characters, including a falcon that does not fly, a one-eyed cat and an old crone who may be wiser than she appears. Very well done!
Set in the Welsh Marches in the late 13th century, it tells the story of Merrick de Beaucourt, famed warrior known as the Red Lion, and friend of the king’s son, Edward, who returns from fighting in the Crusade to finally claim his reward, Camrose Castle and the woman he was betrothed to 6 years earlier. Lady Clio is an impudent young woman who Merrick left twiddling her thumbs in an abbey. She thinks it is fair turnaround that now he wait on her. Her one passion is brewing her ale, looking for that lost legendary “heather ale” formula she’s heard about. Meanwhile, Merrick refortifies the castle and tries to come to terms with a woman who is constantly shaking up his well-ordered world.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and think you will too. The first half is on the lighter side, but you can tell the book is based on considerable research, as castle life is well described with all the proper terminology. The characters are well developed, too. I recommend it!
WILD tells the story of Marrick’s friend, Roger FitzAlan
WICKED tells the story of Marrick’s squire, Tobin de Clare
This is the first in Barnett’s medieval trilogy (WILD AND WICKED follow)—and I loved it! Barnett injects humor effortlessly into a very convincing medieval tale of a stubborn, rigid knight and his innovative unorthodox lady. It wasn’t forced humor either, but naturally came out of the heroine’s personality and often the hero’s reaction. The second half of the book is more serious and looks like a more classic medieval romance. There are also some wonderful side characters, including a falcon that does not fly, a one-eyed cat and an old crone who may be wiser than she appears. Very well done!
Set in the Welsh Marches in the late 13th century, it tells the story of Merrick de Beaucourt, famed warrior known as the Red Lion, and friend of the king’s son, Edward, who returns from fighting in the Crusade to finally claim his reward, Camrose Castle and the woman he was betrothed to 6 years earlier. Lady Clio is an impudent young woman who Merrick left twiddling her thumbs in an abbey. She thinks it is fair turnaround that now he wait on her. Her one passion is brewing her ale, looking for that lost legendary “heather ale” formula she’s heard about. Meanwhile, Merrick refortifies the castle and tries to come to terms with a woman who is constantly shaking up his well-ordered world.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and think you will too. The first half is on the lighter side, but you can tell the book is based on considerable research, as castle life is well described with all the proper terminology. The characters are well developed, too. I recommend it!
WILD tells the story of Marrick’s friend, Roger FitzAlan
WICKED tells the story of Marrick’s squire, Tobin de Clare
September 1, 2012
I'm sorry to be really critical about any book because I can imagine how a book can be a labor of love for authors, but I have to say that I did not particularly like this. I didn't hate it, but the writing was poor and I found the characters and the story inconsistent.
All of chapter 1 (granted it's only 4 pages) is used to describe Clio. I don't want to be told what a person is like, I want to learn through their actions. And then, frankly, Clio's actions throughout the book were contradictory to the long opening description. I was told she was independent and strong, and then later I kept thinking she needed to grow a backbone.
There were a number of passage that I felt hadn't been fully developed - or maybe the author was purposefully trying to be vague (although I can't imagine why) - and I couldn't understand what was happening exactly. For example,
And then some of the writing, I was just like ??? For example:
"Like a field of golden buttercups that hides a prickly hedgehog, Lady Clio's hair hid her true nature." Just, wow.
And unfortunately this line was in the first chapter. I think some of the problems I had with this first chapter really colored the way I saw the rest of the book.
All of chapter 1 (granted it's only 4 pages) is used to describe Clio. I don't want to be told what a person is like, I want to learn through their actions. And then, frankly, Clio's actions throughout the book were contradictory to the long opening description. I was told she was independent and strong, and then later I kept thinking she needed to grow a backbone.
There were a number of passage that I felt hadn't been fully developed - or maybe the author was purposefully trying to be vague (although I can't imagine why) - and I couldn't understand what was happening exactly. For example,
And then some of the writing, I was just like ??? For example:
"Like a field of golden buttercups that hides a prickly hedgehog, Lady Clio's hair hid her true nature." Just, wow.
And unfortunately this line was in the first chapter. I think some of the problems I had with this first chapter really colored the way I saw the rest of the book.
October 13, 2013
"It seemed that unbeknownst to her father, the lecherous bishop had chased Clio for the entire previous week and had foolishly cornered her on the staircase, where he stole a kiss and squeezed her small breasts. So when it came time to doctor him, she had smiled sweetly and stitched up his wound in the shape of three sixes, the sign of the devil." loc.204
Author: Jill Barnett
First published: 1997
Length: 4870 locations
Setting: England 1269
Sex: Reasonably explicit.
A well paced story with plenty of light and dark, action and thoughtfulness. A fun, light romance with easy to like characters and an enjoyable tale, coupled with moving, tearful moments - particularly the ending.
Medieval Trilogy:
Wonderful - Merrick de Beaucourt and Lady Clio of Camrose
Wild - Teleri of the Woods and Roger FitzAlan
Wicked - Lady Sofia Beatrice Rosalynde Anne Therese Howard and Sir Tobin de Clare
References:
Author's website: http://www.jillbarnett.com/
(ISBN 9781935661665)
-CR-
Author: Jill Barnett
First published: 1997
Length: 4870 locations
Setting: England 1269
Sex: Reasonably explicit.
A well paced story with plenty of light and dark, action and thoughtfulness. A fun, light romance with easy to like characters and an enjoyable tale, coupled with moving, tearful moments - particularly the ending.
Medieval Trilogy:
Wonderful - Merrick de Beaucourt and Lady Clio of Camrose
Wild - Teleri of the Woods and Roger FitzAlan
Wicked - Lady Sofia Beatrice Rosalynde Anne Therese Howard and Sir Tobin de Clare
References:
Author's website: http://www.jillbarnett.com/
(ISBN 9781935661665)
-CR-
June 11, 2012
I think "dreadful" would be more appropriate. Neither a solid historical romance nor a bodice-ripper, this book muddies around in the middle ground. Interesting historical details get lost amongst the antics of the stupid, stubborn characters and inconsistently-paced plot. I've certainly read worse books, but after this mess, I doubt I'll read anything else from this author.
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