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Brides of Karadok #1
Wed by Proxy: Brides of Karadok Series, Book 1
He had already made up his mind about her...then she changed it.
Thrice wedded, but never bedded, Mathilde Martindale has long lived in the shadow of her indomitable mother, and meekly done as she was told. Until one day she decides to become mistress of her own destiny and leave the royal court to find her own path.
Married by proxy, Lord Martindale has never even met his bride of three years. Wed as part of a peace treaty, he bitterly resents the mercenary wife who cares only for wealth and prestige. And then he meets her....
Contains mature themes.
Thrice wedded, but never bedded, Mathilde Martindale has long lived in the shadow of her indomitable mother, and meekly done as she was told. Until one day she decides to become mistress of her own destiny and leave the royal court to find her own path.
Married by proxy, Lord Martindale has never even met his bride of three years. Wed as part of a peace treaty, he bitterly resents the mercenary wife who cares only for wealth and prestige. And then he meets her....
Contains mature themes.
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First published July 7, 2019
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September 15, 2022
Well this was a bit of a disappointment. Liked but didn't love it. Probably my least favorite Coldbreath story so far. (I read this because I heard the second in the series was excellent)
I enjoyed the tenacity of Mathilde in running from her mother and the way she found her 4-year absent husband. As a hero, Guy irritated me, he wasn't cruel, but the way he treated his wife bothered me. Granted, no cell phones, no social media, how was he to know she was who she said she was?! I get it, I just didn't like it.
The entire story was just meh.
I enjoyed the tenacity of Mathilde in running from her mother and the way she found her 4-year absent husband. As a hero, Guy irritated me, he wasn't cruel, but the way he treated his wife bothered me. Granted, no cell phones, no social media, how was he to know she was who she said she was?! I get it, I just didn't like it.
The entire story was just meh.
July 14, 2019
Loved this story
This is another good story by Alice Coldbreath featuring a surly knight and a sweet heroine. She was married by Proxy four years ago and she got tired of waiting for him. So she dresses up like a boy and goes to save the knight!! And it's just so cute. The characters are enchanting and I just fell in love with the story. Even the bad guy is a nice guy which was really sad. There's also a heart wrenching scene when she thinks that he betrayed her. I felt bad for her and him. I loved the heroine. She is sweet but strong and he is grouchy and I love how she worms her way into his heart. Safe and I totally recommend.
This is another good story by Alice Coldbreath featuring a surly knight and a sweet heroine. She was married by Proxy four years ago and she got tired of waiting for him. So she dresses up like a boy and goes to save the knight!! And it's just so cute. The characters are enchanting and I just fell in love with the story. Even the bad guy is a nice guy which was really sad. There's also a heart wrenching scene when she thinks that he betrayed her. I felt bad for her and him. I loved the heroine. She is sweet but strong and he is grouchy and I love how she worms her way into his heart. Safe and I totally recommend.
July 13, 2022
Trigger Warnings:
My friend Shilpa has been recommending Alice Coldbreath for ages, she is one of her favourite authors. I was in the mood for something angsty with grovelling so I gave this a shot. This was angsty but the grovel is really short. The thing about Alice Coldbreath is that her men are so different that you don’t even really care if they grovel? Like you can literally slap them and they’ll massage your hand cuz they think you hurt it from hitting them. And NO I am not making this up, this actually happened bruh. So despite there being very little grovel, I didn’t mind since the MMCs in her books are adorable and obsessed with the FMCs. The book is a bit insta-lovey but I adored it. This is my first Alice Coldbreath book and it did not disappoint, I was gonna give it 5 stars. The only problem I had was there were a lot of points where I was confused, a lot of background that I didn’t understand, and a lot of characters that I didn’t know. You aren’t given much background information so it can be hard to follow when something does come up, so in those situations, I was taken outta the story and felt a little frustrated since I didn’t know what was going on. I had to keep asking my friend to help me out LMAO, she was so sweet and patient with me. So I recommend reading her books in order, I think you gotta read the Vawdrey Brother series first and then this. You can still try to read this as a stand-alone as I did. Keep in mind that you will be confused at points, but the romance, the side characters, and the story were all so adorable.
This follows Mathilde, a girl who was forced to marry three times. On her third time, she got sick and tired of not living the nice married life that others seem to have. Wanting a child, she decides to travel in disguise as a boy to find her husband of 4 years, who she hasn’t seen once and has no idea what he looks like. She hopes she can have a family with him, having no idea that her husband hates women and wants nothing to do with her.
Now for spoilers
Stay safe folks
My friend Shilpa has been recommending Alice Coldbreath for ages, she is one of her favourite authors. I was in the mood for something angsty with grovelling so I gave this a shot. This was angsty but the grovel is really short. The thing about Alice Coldbreath is that her men are so different that you don’t even really care if they grovel? Like you can literally slap them and they’ll massage your hand cuz they think you hurt it from hitting them. And NO I am not making this up, this actually happened bruh. So despite there being very little grovel, I didn’t mind since the MMCs in her books are adorable and obsessed with the FMCs. The book is a bit insta-lovey but I adored it. This is my first Alice Coldbreath book and it did not disappoint, I was gonna give it 5 stars. The only problem I had was there were a lot of points where I was confused, a lot of background that I didn’t understand, and a lot of characters that I didn’t know. You aren’t given much background information so it can be hard to follow when something does come up, so in those situations, I was taken outta the story and felt a little frustrated since I didn’t know what was going on. I had to keep asking my friend to help me out LMAO, she was so sweet and patient with me. So I recommend reading her books in order, I think you gotta read the Vawdrey Brother series first and then this. You can still try to read this as a stand-alone as I did. Keep in mind that you will be confused at points, but the romance, the side characters, and the story were all so adorable.
This follows Mathilde, a girl who was forced to marry three times. On her third time, she got sick and tired of not living the nice married life that others seem to have. Wanting a child, she decides to travel in disguise as a boy to find her husband of 4 years, who she hasn’t seen once and has no idea what he looks like. She hopes she can have a family with him, having no idea that her husband hates women and wants nothing to do with her.
Now for spoilers
Stay safe folks
July 2, 2020
Historical romance has been my weakness and medieval romances highlights that more. Thus I was very happy to get my hands on a historical romance that is not all gooey mushy (pardon my girly language). Not that the book is completely devoid of it. After around 40% mark the story does take a turn for that. After all this is historical ROMANCE. But as far as Historical romances go, this does the genre a favor.
August 3, 2019
I was drawn to this book by it's cover. Alice Coldbreath was an unknown author to me but after reading "Wed by Proxy" I intent on reading more of her books...
I loved the heroine of this book. Mathilde was suppressed by her mother all her life. I don't know what made her mother deem her fragile and incompetent in dealing with life on her own but the result is that Mathilde is 24 years old, twice a widow and currently 4 years married to a man she has never met. All the while having never left her mother's side... I don't know what made her snap out of her stupor (I suspect I might find the answer in Her Baseborn Bridegroom as she claims that being in close proximity to a happily married friend of hers made her realise all the things she was missing out in her own life), but one day she decides to escape her golden cage and unite with her stranger of a husband...
"I was twenty-four years of age. My mother had successfully maneuvered me through three political marriages, yet I had never left her side. I had never run my own household, had never held a child of my own in my arms... My first husband was seventy-nine years old, I only met him twice. My second husband I met once in his death bed.
I loved you as soon as I clapped eyes on you. You were everything I ever wanted in life.
So after a series of adventures and hardships, disguised as a boy with the company of one faithfull friend, she arrives at her destination only to be met by hostility and distrust.
Guy isn't a cruel and cold man by nature. Life has served him a bitter hand that made him a reclusive misanthropist and above all, suspicious of all women. So when Mathilde appears in frond of him claiming that she is his wife of four years, he immediatly acclaims her as a fraud.
Oh, I loved how their relationship unfolded. Mathilde is determined to conquer the heart of this indifferent man and sets out a plan to seduce him by following the instructions of a very naughty erotic book an old woman gave her... In the other hand, Guy's 4 year long celibacy comes back to bite him in the ass, as he can't seem to resist her...
I had so much fun reading their story who is enriched with many secondary characters, a few anxious and suspenful moments, enough hot scenes and a crowling, regretful husband in the end....
"I'do anything, just to receive her smile, her good opinion. I cannot tolerate the thought of returning home without her. My life would be emptly. Desolate. Worthless."
I loved the heroine of this book. Mathilde was suppressed by her mother all her life. I don't know what made her mother deem her fragile and incompetent in dealing with life on her own but the result is that Mathilde is 24 years old, twice a widow and currently 4 years married to a man she has never met. All the while having never left her mother's side... I don't know what made her snap out of her stupor (I suspect I might find the answer in Her Baseborn Bridegroom as she claims that being in close proximity to a happily married friend of hers made her realise all the things she was missing out in her own life), but one day she decides to escape her golden cage and unite with her stranger of a husband...
"I was twenty-four years of age. My mother had successfully maneuvered me through three political marriages, yet I had never left her side. I had never run my own household, had never held a child of my own in my arms... My first husband was seventy-nine years old, I only met him twice. My second husband I met once in his death bed.
I loved you as soon as I clapped eyes on you. You were everything I ever wanted in life.
So after a series of adventures and hardships, disguised as a boy with the company of one faithfull friend, she arrives at her destination only to be met by hostility and distrust.
Guy isn't a cruel and cold man by nature. Life has served him a bitter hand that made him a reclusive misanthropist and above all, suspicious of all women. So when Mathilde appears in frond of him claiming that she is his wife of four years, he immediatly acclaims her as a fraud.
Oh, I loved how their relationship unfolded. Mathilde is determined to conquer the heart of this indifferent man and sets out a plan to seduce him by following the instructions of a very naughty erotic book an old woman gave her... In the other hand, Guy's 4 year long celibacy comes back to bite him in the ass, as he can't seem to resist her...
I had so much fun reading their story who is enriched with many secondary characters, a few anxious and suspenful moments, enough hot scenes and a crowling, regretful husband in the end....
"I'do anything, just to receive her smile, her good opinion. I cannot tolerate the thought of returning home without her. My life would be emptly. Desolate. Worthless."
March 17, 2021
This was more like it. Much better than His Forsaken Bride.
I love a runaway heroine, and this one goes from Miss Meek and Squeamish to a chick who gets things done.
Mathilde runs from her overbearing mother to husband number three that she’s never met. Her mother has a habit of marrying her off to very unavailable men for money and status at court. Her first two husbands had one foot in the grave so were non-starters.
Husband number three is a lot younger but a grumpy grudge-holder. He was blackmailed by the opposing side of the kingly fight into marriage and has no kind feelings for the wife he’s never met. Works out well as Grumpy thinks this new chick in town is just pretending to be his wife. It’s okay because it’s insta-lust. This studied ignorance comes back to bite him.
All in all fun romantic romp with a heroine stretching her wings, fun secondary characters, and a besotted H. Points off for no confrontation between the newly forged heroine and the self-involved and annoying evil OW. Really missed an opportunity there as I don’t think the heroine would have turned the other cheek.
I love a runaway heroine, and this one goes from Miss Meek and Squeamish to a chick who gets things done.
Mathilde runs from her overbearing mother to husband number three that she’s never met. Her mother has a habit of marrying her off to very unavailable men for money and status at court. Her first two husbands had one foot in the grave so were non-starters.
Husband number three is a lot younger but a grumpy grudge-holder. He was blackmailed by the opposing side of the kingly fight into marriage and has no kind feelings for the wife he’s never met. Works out well as Grumpy thinks this new chick in town is just pretending to be his wife. It’s okay because it’s insta-lust. This studied ignorance comes back to bite him.
All in all fun romantic romp with a heroine stretching her wings, fun secondary characters, and a besotted H. Points off for no confrontation between the newly forged heroine and the self-involved and annoying evil OW. Really missed an opportunity there as I don’t think the heroine would have turned the other cheek.
August 6, 2019
4.75 stars.
The grovel is EPIC!
The story rather original too, especially how she’s end up married three times and go looking for the hubby number 3 😂.
Don’t worry, it’s not a spoiler, you will read it in chapter #1.
Yes, I enjoy this one very much!
❤️❤️❤️
I want to read Lenora’s story next!
Unfortunately I have to wait till winter, Ms. Coldbreath only publishes her books twice a year! 😫
Oh well..
The grovel is EPIC!
The story rather original too, especially how she’s end up married three times and go looking for the hubby number 3 😂.
Don’t worry, it’s not a spoiler, you will read it in chapter #1.
Yes, I enjoy this one very much!
❤️❤️❤️
I want to read Lenora’s story next!
Unfortunately I have to wait till winter, Ms. Coldbreath only publishes her books twice a year! 😫
Oh well..
October 5, 2022
3.5 stars
I thank all my GR friends who read this first and left such detailed reviews because I think I enjoyed the story more knowing what was coming. This is why I love reading spoilers. I feel like other reviewers have done a great job already talking about Wed by Proxy so this might be shorter.
This is a character-driven book with the focus on a married couple who've never met in person as others were using them as pawns to see them married. Mathilde (h) was a meek, timid, but sweet friend to Fenella in His Forsaken Bride in the author's other Karadok series (although this one does standalone) and she runs away from court to finally join her husband (who has no idea she's coming). Her character growth in this book is excellent and it made me happy seeing her venture out, pursue what she wanted, practice standing up for herself, and ultimately get exactly the life she hoped for. Guy (H) had less substantial growth, but still went from an angry and anti-social man to a deeply in love, do-anything-for-her, and generally more warm husband. He didn't believe Mathilde was actually his wife at first and his suspicions, along with other misunderstandings, led to miscommunications and eventually angst. There is groveling though so at least we get that. The story is written in third person, dual POV. No om drama, ow drama from H's ex betrothed who he has zero interest in but who wants attention, h is a virgin and H has been celibate since their marriage, no bc.
Like other books by Ms. Coldbreath, this is a steamy romance, if somewhat awkward at times. I didn't love that Guy begins sleeping with Mathilde when he still believes her to be someone else, but I did enjoy that Mathilde uses an erotic book to help her seduce her husband. She even passes it along and it's a successful tool for the other woman. I also loved the side characters from a page who traveled with Mathilde from court to a witch who mysteriously lives in the woods and meddles in their relationship and several others. There is a plot point, like other reviews mention, late in the story that felt somewhat forced. I actually liked part of it that involved a bit of intrigue, but didn't enjoy the meddling of the Queen and I would have liked Mathilde's mother getting more of a comeuppance for how she treated her daughter prior to this story. However, Guy and Mathilde do get their HEA and the epilogue was sweet and made me happy, like Ms. Coldbreath's epilogues usually do. If this ends up being my least favorite of the series, as some others have said, then I'll be really pleased with the rest of the books. The Prizefighter series is still my favorite though.
I thank all my GR friends who read this first and left such detailed reviews because I think I enjoyed the story more knowing what was coming. This is why I love reading spoilers. I feel like other reviewers have done a great job already talking about Wed by Proxy so this might be shorter.
This is a character-driven book with the focus on a married couple who've never met in person as others were using them as pawns to see them married. Mathilde (h) was a meek, timid, but sweet friend to Fenella in His Forsaken Bride in the author's other Karadok series (although this one does standalone) and she runs away from court to finally join her husband (who has no idea she's coming). Her character growth in this book is excellent and it made me happy seeing her venture out, pursue what she wanted, practice standing up for herself, and ultimately get exactly the life she hoped for. Guy (H) had less substantial growth, but still went from an angry and anti-social man to a deeply in love, do-anything-for-her, and generally more warm husband. He didn't believe Mathilde was actually his wife at first and his suspicions, along with other misunderstandings, led to miscommunications and eventually angst. There is groveling though so at least we get that. The story is written in third person, dual POV. No om drama, ow drama from H's ex betrothed who he has zero interest in but who wants attention, h is a virgin and H has been celibate since their marriage, no bc.
Like other books by Ms. Coldbreath, this is a steamy romance, if somewhat awkward at times. I didn't love that Guy begins sleeping with Mathilde when he still believes her to be someone else, but I did enjoy that Mathilde uses an erotic book to help her seduce her husband. She even passes it along and it's a successful tool for the other woman. I also loved the side characters from a page who traveled with Mathilde from court to a witch who mysteriously lives in the woods and meddles in their relationship and several others. There is a plot point, like other reviews mention, late in the story that felt somewhat forced. I actually liked part of it that involved a bit of intrigue, but didn't enjoy the meddling of the Queen and I would have liked Mathilde's mother getting more of a comeuppance for how she treated her daughter prior to this story. However, Guy and Mathilde do get their HEA and the epilogue was sweet and made me happy, like Ms. Coldbreath's epilogues usually do. If this ends up being my least favorite of the series, as some others have said, then I'll be really pleased with the rest of the books. The Prizefighter series is still my favorite though.
March 21, 2024
Spoilers ahead
Four years ago after the war between the North and the south Guy is forced to be married by proxy to a southern woman.
Mathilde has been married three times and has met one of her grooms only once, four years she's been married to Guy and has never met him . Mathilde hatches a plot to travel under disguise to meet her husband but things don't go quite according to plan
******
After reading her baseborn bridegroom I had high hopes for this one but absolutely not
1)Too much inner monologue, these two talked and second guessed themselves till about 40% of the book? It was annoying as heck
2) Mathilde was sent to live in a hunting lodge because Guy didn't believe she really was his wife. To get things moving she seduces her husband and from then on Mathilde was the pursuer waiting in hopes of her husband making a visit to her bed every night. Her cries of Oh Guy were terribly vexing tbh
3)When Mathilde confessed immediately that she was his bride I was so happy, I hate when the deception is dragged out so I figured the plot would progress from there.....ummm no. She confessed it, he secretly doubted it and that was that. Never was a conversation had, a letter sent, an enquiry, a damn pigeon Nothing to even attempt to discover if she really was who she claimed to be
4)Guy was a horrible H, full of pretty words to cover his weak nature. Used to sitting back and waiting it seems. He once proposed to his young love Julia and she jilted him for a rich old man. Since then Guy has felt women couldn't be trusted, then to him his thrice married wife just had to be a terrible person just using men as she desired... Guy quite became a surly woman hater
5) The lovely lady Julia returns and causes quite an uproar. Guy has Mathilde living like his hidden mistress when Julia arrives to visit. As the sister of his now deceased best friend he's obliged to offer her shelter. Rumors spread and Mathilde shows up shocked to see the lady Julia at her husband's table. Now Guy absolutely was not interested in Julia but the situation was handled poorly just to create drama. What irked me however was his response after Mathilde asked him not to escort Julia home because she was quite hurt about her presence. He called his wife, the woman he had developed feelings for a hateful bitch because she demanded he get the lady Julia to return an heirloom broach he'd once gifted her. I already could not stand the weak willed and overly flowery guy now I hated him.
6) I'd say Mathilde made guy work for forgiveness but by then I was over these stupid people end their shenanigans
No cheating
H wasn't a manwhore/rake he'd actually been faithful to his marriage vows even though he'd never met Mathilde
h was a three times married virgin
OW drama
Four years ago after the war between the North and the south Guy is forced to be married by proxy to a southern woman.
Mathilde has been married three times and has met one of her grooms only once, four years she's been married to Guy and has never met him . Mathilde hatches a plot to travel under disguise to meet her husband but things don't go quite according to plan
******
After reading her baseborn bridegroom I had high hopes for this one but absolutely not
1)Too much inner monologue, these two talked and second guessed themselves till about 40% of the book? It was annoying as heck
2) Mathilde was sent to live in a hunting lodge because Guy didn't believe she really was his wife. To get things moving she seduces her husband and from then on Mathilde was the pursuer waiting in hopes of her husband making a visit to her bed every night. Her cries of Oh Guy were terribly vexing tbh
3)When Mathilde confessed immediately that she was his bride I was so happy, I hate when the deception is dragged out so I figured the plot would progress from there.....ummm no. She confessed it, he secretly doubted it and that was that. Never was a conversation had, a letter sent, an enquiry, a damn pigeon Nothing to even attempt to discover if she really was who she claimed to be
4)Guy was a horrible H, full of pretty words to cover his weak nature. Used to sitting back and waiting it seems. He once proposed to his young love Julia and she jilted him for a rich old man. Since then Guy has felt women couldn't be trusted, then to him his thrice married wife just had to be a terrible person just using men as she desired... Guy quite became a surly woman hater
5) The lovely lady Julia returns and causes quite an uproar. Guy has Mathilde living like his hidden mistress when Julia arrives to visit. As the sister of his now deceased best friend he's obliged to offer her shelter. Rumors spread and Mathilde shows up shocked to see the lady Julia at her husband's table. Now Guy absolutely was not interested in Julia but the situation was handled poorly just to create drama. What irked me however was his response after Mathilde asked him not to escort Julia home because she was quite hurt about her presence. He called his wife, the woman he had developed feelings for a hateful bitch because she demanded he get the lady Julia to return an heirloom broach he'd once gifted her. I already could not stand the weak willed and overly flowery guy now I hated him.
6) I'd say Mathilde made guy work for forgiveness but by then I was over these stupid people end their shenanigans
No cheating
H wasn't a manwhore/rake he'd actually been faithful to his marriage vows even though he'd never met Mathilde
h was a three times married virgin
OW drama
August 6, 2022
Finally finished a book! Been in a terrible slump and been busy with summer activities lately... anyway...
I have some mixed feelings about this book. I loved Coldbreath’s Victorian Prizefighter books so much but was quite bored by her Vawdrey Brothers series, so I was apprehensive going into the Brides of Karadok. But this book started off well enough. Matilde escaped her stifling life with her mother in the previous series and we join her as she dresses as a boy and goes to join her Proxy Husband whom she has never met. I really liked her character growth and how she took charge of her circumstances but she still was a bit passive with her husband at first, allowing him to hide her away at his hunting lodge and not acknowledge her as his wife.
The hero, Guy, was the usual grumpy, terse man we expect from Coldbreath, but he often acted a bit stupidly, allowing miscommunications to go on and on without insisting they be cleared up right away. This kind of made the book drag at the end. I thought it should have ended at around the 75% point when it was revealed that she was his wife, without a doubt, but the story carried on with the author adding an additional intrigue that was not really needed.
I think the author used this final intrigue to bring Oswald Vawdrey and his machinations into play, as for some reason he has appeared and manipulated circumstances in all of her books set in Karadok. That’s essentially what made me downgrade this book to a 3 star read. Stupid Earl Vawdrey and the court intrigue yet again. It didn’t interest me in the Vawdrey Brothers books and it was unnecessary in this one. I would have much preferred this story to have resolved itself by the actions of the couple and not interference from an outside source.
I think some readers like the reappearance of the Queen and Vawdrey over and over, but I am not one of them. I could care less about those characters being in every book and manipulating everything. It felt contrived and unnatural.
Other than the ending, I liked this book of a shy heroine taking charge of her life and her marriage and a gruff man being captivated by her and them finding love. Leave out the side intrigue and you have a solid story.
I have some mixed feelings about this book. I loved Coldbreath’s Victorian Prizefighter books so much but was quite bored by her Vawdrey Brothers series, so I was apprehensive going into the Brides of Karadok. But this book started off well enough. Matilde escaped her stifling life with her mother in the previous series and we join her as she dresses as a boy and goes to join her Proxy Husband whom she has never met. I really liked her character growth and how she took charge of her circumstances but she still was a bit passive with her husband at first, allowing him to hide her away at his hunting lodge and not acknowledge her as his wife.
The hero, Guy, was the usual grumpy, terse man we expect from Coldbreath, but he often acted a bit stupidly, allowing miscommunications to go on and on without insisting they be cleared up right away. This kind of made the book drag at the end. I thought it should have ended at around the 75% point when it was revealed that she was his wife, without a doubt, but the story carried on with the author adding an additional intrigue that was not really needed.
I think the author used this final intrigue to bring Oswald Vawdrey and his machinations into play, as for some reason he has appeared and manipulated circumstances in all of her books set in Karadok. That’s essentially what made me downgrade this book to a 3 star read. Stupid Earl Vawdrey and the court intrigue yet again. It didn’t interest me in the Vawdrey Brothers books and it was unnecessary in this one. I would have much preferred this story to have resolved itself by the actions of the couple and not interference from an outside source.
I think some readers like the reappearance of the Queen and Vawdrey over and over, but I am not one of them. I could care less about those characters being in every book and manipulating everything. It felt contrived and unnatural.
Other than the ending, I liked this book of a shy heroine taking charge of her life and her marriage and a gruff man being captivated by her and them finding love. Leave out the side intrigue and you have a solid story.
December 20, 2019
These books (Vawdrey Brothers Series) because even if this is a new series, are all connected.
What I love is the way the author makes likable characters that, taken by themselves, are not likable at all!
Guy is a gruffy, cold man who dislike everybody and everybody dislikes him, but as soon as he put his eyes on Mathilde he's absolutely smiten.
Mathilde on the other hand is a "mouse" who's afraid of her shadow in the previous books, but here she becomes an outspoken seductress without fear!
But the suthor manages to make them extremly likable and endearing!
What I love is the way the author makes likable characters that, taken by themselves, are not likable at all!
Guy is a gruffy, cold man who dislike everybody and everybody dislikes him, but as soon as he put his eyes on Mathilde he's absolutely smiten.
Mathilde on the other hand is a "mouse" who's afraid of her shadow in the previous books, but here she becomes an outspoken seductress without fear!
But the suthor manages to make them extremly likable and endearing!
August 12, 2021
Audio 5 Stars
Story 4.5 Stars
Story 4.5 Stars
August 8, 2022
Third read: 3.5 stars, rounding up. I just don’t feel like this book compares to the Vaudrey brothers series at all - and after rereading all three of those books before this one, I definitely felt the difference. I never fully felt connected to the MC’s romance - it all felt rushed to me. On top of that, I really didn’t like the hero. The heroine was so pitiable, that I couldn’t stand even the smallest slight against her.
However, I’m raising the rating for this because I did like that there was A LOT of groveling at the end. I still felt like there could have been more though, LOL. Especially after his decision to leave and escort OW home bc that was his “duty” - I didn’t understand why the heroine forgave that so easily.
Anyways, this is a fine book, but I definitely like others by this author much more.
Safety info below.
Second read: 3 stars. I originally gave this book 4, but really did not like this story the second time around. Somehow, just knowing what was coming next gave me anxiety for the majority of the story. The hero really did treat the heroine terribly a few times, and she was so stupid and innocent about it that it all just set my teeth on edge. I did like that he was forced to majorly grovel, which made up for a lot of my indignation on behalf of the heroine. Lol.
Safe for most. Heroine virgin, hero had been celibate since their marriage 4 years prior (even though they hadn’t met in all that time). He initially starts sleeping with the heroine thinking himself married to another woman, not believing her to be his true wife. OW drama from an woman he was betrothed to in his youth - he isn’t interested in her.
————
This book is good but uses miscommunication as a main source of drama. This is not my thing, tbh, but this book makes up for it in other ways. The plot overall is good & the pacing & the writing were well done. I liked the MCs, but didn’t love them. I wish they had discussed their issues with each other. There’s also a paranormal element introduced in this book which I’m not sure if I liked or not... still undecided.
That being said, I like the world of Karadok. And I really like Alice Coldbreath’s writing. There’s no major angst in any of her books, no cheating, no man whore heroes who gloat about their conquests, etc. I think these books need to be read in order, starting with the Vaudrey Brothers series. The heroine of this story is first introduced in book 1 and has a substantial storyline in book 2.
However, I’m raising the rating for this because I did like that there was A LOT of groveling at the end. I still felt like there could have been more though, LOL. Especially after his decision to leave and escort OW home bc that was his “duty” - I didn’t understand why the heroine forgave that so easily.
Anyways, this is a fine book, but I definitely like others by this author much more.
Safety info below.
Second read: 3 stars. I originally gave this book 4, but really did not like this story the second time around. Somehow, just knowing what was coming next gave me anxiety for the majority of the story. The hero really did treat the heroine terribly a few times, and she was so stupid and innocent about it that it all just set my teeth on edge. I did like that he was forced to majorly grovel, which made up for a lot of my indignation on behalf of the heroine. Lol.
Safe for most. Heroine virgin, hero had been celibate since their marriage 4 years prior (even though they hadn’t met in all that time). He initially starts sleeping with the heroine thinking himself married to another woman, not believing her to be his true wife. OW drama from an woman he was betrothed to in his youth - he isn’t interested in her.
————
This book is good but uses miscommunication as a main source of drama. This is not my thing, tbh, but this book makes up for it in other ways. The plot overall is good & the pacing & the writing were well done. I liked the MCs, but didn’t love them. I wish they had discussed their issues with each other. There’s also a paranormal element introduced in this book which I’m not sure if I liked or not... still undecided.
That being said, I like the world of Karadok. And I really like Alice Coldbreath’s writing. There’s no major angst in any of her books, no cheating, no man whore heroes who gloat about their conquests, etc. I think these books need to be read in order, starting with the Vaudrey Brothers series. The heroine of this story is first introduced in book 1 and has a substantial storyline in book 2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2022
Apparently my slump can only be helped by beautiful HR stories.
I liked this one the least from all I’ve read from the author yet, I didn’t quite like the H in this one, not trusting and hating his spouse. But I guess we all have our faults.
But still, perfectly paced, the character’s development, their coming together… I guess I will just have to keep reading her work!
I liked this one the least from all I’ve read from the author yet, I didn’t quite like the H in this one, not trusting and hating his spouse. But I guess we all have our faults.
But still, perfectly paced, the character’s development, their coming together… I guess I will just have to keep reading her work!
August 1, 2019
3.5 Pleased Stars
Happily, surprised by this, after some of the reviews I’d read, I was slightly nervous about purchasing this, but got to say my worry was for nothing, and I will be re-reading this at some point.
Mathilde (Mouse) Martindale, dressed as a boy, has snuck out of the Royal Court and away from her controlling mother, in order to seek out her husband, a man she has been married to for 4 years, but whom she has never seen. Her husband - Guy, Lord Martindale, has spent 4 years bitterly resenting the Southern wife forced on him, yet even with such bitterness he has remained faithful to the vows he unwillingly took. Guy, having not meet his Lady wife, who has been twice widowed, is certain she is a conniving and money hungry harridan, but when Mathilde arrives at his doorstep, well he finds himself inexplicably drawn to her and highly protective.
I liked the fact that away from her mother and nurse, Mathilde flourishes, the mouse she was at court quickly disappearing. I also enjoyed seeing two of the Vawdrey brothers again, although I wanted more.
I wanted a bit more emotional intensity but I liked the overall tone of the read, it was just what I needed after a rather long morning.
There are a few editing issues, which, at times, jolted me out of the story, but overall this was an enjoyable read and I’m looking forward to future publications by the author.
Happily, surprised by this, after some of the reviews I’d read, I was slightly nervous about purchasing this, but got to say my worry was for nothing, and I will be re-reading this at some point.
Mathilde (Mouse) Martindale, dressed as a boy, has snuck out of the Royal Court and away from her controlling mother, in order to seek out her husband, a man she has been married to for 4 years, but whom she has never seen. Her husband - Guy, Lord Martindale, has spent 4 years bitterly resenting the Southern wife forced on him, yet even with such bitterness he has remained faithful to the vows he unwillingly took. Guy, having not meet his Lady wife, who has been twice widowed, is certain she is a conniving and money hungry harridan, but when Mathilde arrives at his doorstep, well he finds himself inexplicably drawn to her and highly protective.
I liked the fact that away from her mother and nurse, Mathilde flourishes, the mouse she was at court quickly disappearing. I also enjoyed seeing two of the Vawdrey brothers again, although I wanted more.
I wanted a bit more emotional intensity but I liked the overall tone of the read, it was just what I needed after a rather long morning.
There are a few editing issues, which, at times, jolted me out of the story, but overall this was an enjoyable read and I’m looking forward to future publications by the author.
July 9, 2023
10 stars for a great story. The h finally escapes her mother to find her husband, although she knows little about him. He's traumatised from years of war and hates his unseen wife with great passion. Loved seeing the abused h find show her true self. One of my favourite books by this author.
March 14, 2021
Mathilda the meek mouse that learns to roar and Guy the angry man who hides behind his beard.
Four years ago, Guy and the other northerners were defeated by the southern king. Instead of losing his land or worse... his head, he chooses to marry the king's choice.
He had never met Mathilda and knows NOT ONE THING about her. But he has spent the last 4 years stewing in resentment of his gold digging bitch of a southern wife.
If Mathilda had known this, she might not have worked up the courage to run away... to her husband by proxy, Guy.
But she does, and she grows up from the sheltered mouse her mother had forced her to be.
Right from the get go, there's chemistry between Mattie and Guy. Soon his employees are looking at him like he's gone nuts, because he has gone nuts... over Mathilda. He just doesn't know it yet.
...and then there's the little problem that he doesn't actually believe she is his wife Mathilda. But he still wants her.
Mathilda spends over half the story in the dark about his disbelief. She is championed by most who meet her including a meddling old witch (loved Helga's character!). When Mattie does figure it out, it was heart rending. And Guy is tripping over himself trying to prove to her that he loves her. It was lovely. But at the same time I didn't feel like he'd given up his man card.
At least not yet.
The ending was a little drawn out and I thought Oswald was a little harsh on Guy's poor pride. I mean leave the man a little dignity for pity's sake!
But it was still romantic and tender and all those things we read romance for.
Safety is good
Four years ago, Guy and the other northerners were defeated by the southern king. Instead of losing his land or worse... his head, he chooses to marry the king's choice.
He had never met Mathilda and knows NOT ONE THING about her. But he has spent the last 4 years stewing in resentment of his gold digging bitch of a southern wife.
If Mathilda had known this, she might not have worked up the courage to run away... to her husband by proxy, Guy.
But she does, and she grows up from the sheltered mouse her mother had forced her to be.
Right from the get go, there's chemistry between Mattie and Guy. Soon his employees are looking at him like he's gone nuts, because he has gone nuts... over Mathilda. He just doesn't know it yet.
...and then there's the little problem that he doesn't actually believe she is his wife Mathilda. But he still wants her.
Mathilda spends over half the story in the dark about his disbelief. She is championed by most who meet her including a meddling old witch (loved Helga's character!). When Mattie does figure it out, it was heart rending. And Guy is tripping over himself trying to prove to her that he loves her. It was lovely. But at the same time I didn't feel like he'd given up his man card.
At least not yet.
The ending was a little drawn out and I thought Oswald was a little harsh on Guy's poor pride. I mean leave the man a little dignity for pity's sake!
But it was still romantic and tender and all those things we read romance for.
Safety is good
January 27, 2022
Another good one by AC.
I love this h's meek to tough transformation. Her posse of boy friends are amazing.
Guy the H falters more than once. But well, all good for angst and then a mini-villain-shenanigan till another Royalty-sanctioned hea.
Lots of great detailed reviews out here.
I love this h's meek to tough transformation. Her posse of boy friends are amazing.
Guy the H falters more than once. But well, all good for angst and then a mini-villain-shenanigan till another Royalty-sanctioned hea.
Lots of great detailed reviews out here.
September 15, 2023
2nd re-read-August 2023-FROM 4 to star
I always thought The Unlovely Bride is my fav by the author but after the 1st re-read of this book, I realized my mistake. And, my 2nd re-read has solidified this belief. Without a doubt, the newer books of AC are better written and edited but I still pick the older ones for re-reading.
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Reread-Aug 2022
read- Sep 2020
I have re-read some of Alice Coldbreath books mostly before a new release. But I had never re-read this one. And, I realize I liked it better this time. Maybe because my 1st read involved reading 7-8 books of hers in a week. 😂😂😂 Yes, I found her and devoured everything by her in a week. It's funny because I have not re-read any of the new books only the ones I read during those first 7 days.
I always thought The Unlovely Bride is my fav by the author but after the 1st re-read of this book, I realized my mistake. And, my 2nd re-read has solidified this belief. Without a doubt, the newer books of AC are better written and edited but I still pick the older ones for re-reading.
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Reread-Aug 2022
read- Sep 2020
I have re-read some of Alice Coldbreath books mostly before a new release. But I had never re-read this one. And, I realize I liked it better this time. Maybe because my 1st read involved reading 7-8 books of hers in a week. 😂😂😂 Yes, I found her and devoured everything by her in a week. It's funny because I have not re-read any of the new books only the ones I read during those first 7 days.
Read
January 22, 20204 STARS
Loved Mathilde's story. I didn't find Guy as strong a hero as I did her others, but then again, he is not a Vawdrey. The hate he appeared to have for the wife that was forced upon him seemed to evaporate much too quickly upon her actual arrival. But I still enjoyed how the story played out. Loved Mathilde and her new-found backbone! Our little mouse has finally blossomed.
This one took me a little longer to get through, I'm not quite sure why, the middle of the story got a little slow, but picked up again at the end. Otherwise it was another winner from AC! Looking forward to many more.
Loved Mathilde's story. I didn't find Guy as strong a hero as I did her others, but then again, he is not a Vawdrey. The hate he appeared to have for the wife that was forced upon him seemed to evaporate much too quickly upon her actual arrival. But I still enjoyed how the story played out. Loved Mathilde and her new-found backbone! Our little mouse has finally blossomed.
This one took me a little longer to get through, I'm not quite sure why, the middle of the story got a little slow, but picked up again at the end. Otherwise it was another winner from AC! Looking forward to many more.
May 19, 2021
I ended up enjoying this one more than I thought I would. For a good stretch, the story fell flat for me. Then around the 70% mark things picked up.
Mathilda was a great heroine. A bit of a tigress instead of a mouse! 😉
Guy did groveling well!
A recommended read if you are a fan of AC!
July 3, 2020
This book was hilarious. The female protagonist is bubbly and hopeful. I didn't like the groveling towards the end. The male protagonist didn't do anything that wrong to deserve such treatment. he was also a victim as the heroine. He literally accepted peace for her. That how much he loves her. She also loves him but I felt really bad for him.
Also, I thought the heroine's mother would make more fuss, but she just accepted everything. I would have liked if there was more depth between the mother-daughter relationship and why the heroine's mother controlled every aspect of her daughter's life. It just never was disclosed and I was heavily disappointed.
I also loved the heroine's friendship with the boys and her maid. I laughed really hard when she gave seduction skills to her maidand it worked. It is such a light and funny book filled with romance in a historical period.
Also, I thought the heroine's mother would make more fuss, but she just accepted everything. I would have liked if there was more depth between the mother-daughter relationship and why the heroine's mother controlled every aspect of her daughter's life. It just never was disclosed and I was heavily disappointed.
I also loved the heroine's friendship with the boys and her maid. I laughed really hard when she gave seduction skills to her maidand it worked. It is such a light and funny book filled with romance in a historical period.
July 11, 2025
↬ 3.5 ★!!
First of all, why the fuck did the Lusty Widow take Sir Peloman back, after his whoring about????
Secondly, I love him...I love him... He would've been such an interesting love interest, had he his own book.
⇢
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
I love him 💔💔
┈┈・୨✦୧・┈┈
Alright so, that aside, the romance between the FMC, Mathilde, and the MMC, Guy, was eh. I had butterflies at some moments but ultimately, they're not my favorite AC couple. Not when Oswald and Mason and Roland exist 😋😋 The found family vibes and frosty atmosphere were doing all the heavy lifting here—and they did it well.
I have high hopes for the rest of the series. The next book is going to be Lenora's!!
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Just started..
I keep telling myself to slow down with Alice Coldbreath's books, but clearly that's not happening as I can't help myself 😌 I've got decently high hopes for this one. Lady Mathilde was always a sweetheart - I just hope she doesn't let Guy walk all over her. Also heard there's some OW business, so I'm side-eyeing cautiously. But so far? It's funny, and I expected nothing less. Classic Coldbreath. Honestly, if you're even considering dipping your toes into historical romance, Alice Coldbreath is one of the best possible gateways :)
┈┈・୨✦୧・┈┈
As for OW drama - some entirely nonsense drama from a lady called Julia. MMC's not interested at all though, but she does get away with some infuriating things.
┈┈・୨✦୧・┈┈
First of all, why the fuck did the Lusty Widow take Sir Peloman back, after his whoring about????
Secondly, I love him...I love him... He would've been such an interesting love interest, had he his own book.
⇢
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
I love him 💔💔
┈┈・୨✦୧・┈┈
Alright so, that aside, the romance between the FMC, Mathilde, and the MMC, Guy, was eh. I had butterflies at some moments but ultimately, they're not my favorite AC couple. Not when Oswald and Mason and Roland exist 😋😋 The found family vibes and frosty atmosphere were doing all the heavy lifting here—and they did it well.
I have high hopes for the rest of the series. The next book is going to be Lenora's!!
┈┈・୨✦୧・┈┈
Just started..
I keep telling myself to slow down with Alice Coldbreath's books, but clearly that's not happening as I can't help myself 😌 I've got decently high hopes for this one. Lady Mathilde was always a sweetheart - I just hope she doesn't let Guy walk all over her. Also heard there's some OW business, so I'm side-eyeing cautiously. But so far? It's funny, and I expected nothing less. Classic Coldbreath. Honestly, if you're even considering dipping your toes into historical romance, Alice Coldbreath is one of the best possible gateways :)
┈┈・୨✦୧・┈┈
As for OW drama - some entirely nonsense drama from a lady called Julia. MMC's not interested at all though, but she does get away with some infuriating things.
┈┈・୨✦୧・┈┈
August 6, 2022
Read; 6/20/20
This was another good read by AC. The only problem were their misunderstandings and that got annoying fast. Not mention he lied over and over to her. Once he knew who she really was, he should have begged for her forgiveness.
Though not my favorite AC book, it's still worth the try!
Her Baseborn Bridegroom is still my favorite 😍
This was another good read by AC. The only problem were their misunderstandings and that got annoying fast. Not mention he lied over and over to her. Once he knew who she really was, he should have begged for her forgiveness.
Though not my favorite AC book, it's still worth the try!
Her Baseborn Bridegroom is still my favorite 😍
January 4, 2021
3.5 stars
Wed By Proxy is book 1 in the Brides of Karadok series and another enjoyable read by this author. When we first met Mathilde I knew immediately that I wanted to read her book. She was shy, quiet and unsure of herself and knowing she had been married three times I couldn't wait to see what happens. Let's just say I was not disappointed in the young woman Mathilde became and I loved how she seduced her husband. Lord Martindale hates his Southern Bride since he was forced by the crown to marry her but not allowed to actually have her. When a young woman dressed as a young boy shows up at his door and tells him she's his wife he is shocked and believes he is being set up. I loved how Guy felt a strong desire for Mathilde but what annoyed me was how long it took for him to finally realize she was telling him the truth but he did grovel so all was good. I look forward to more books by this author.
Wed By Proxy is book 1 in the Brides of Karadok series and another enjoyable read by this author. When we first met Mathilde I knew immediately that I wanted to read her book. She was shy, quiet and unsure of herself and knowing she had been married three times I couldn't wait to see what happens. Let's just say I was not disappointed in the young woman Mathilde became and I loved how she seduced her husband. Lord Martindale hates his Southern Bride since he was forced by the crown to marry her but not allowed to actually have her. When a young woman dressed as a young boy shows up at his door and tells him she's his wife he is shocked and believes he is being set up. I loved how Guy felt a strong desire for Mathilde but what annoyed me was how long it took for him to finally realize she was telling him the truth but he did grovel so all was good. I look forward to more books by this author.
September 20, 2020
(9/2020) I loved this on a re-read. The angst level was perfect for me, just enough to really pull me into the story but not so much that I got a stomach ache. The H and h both have reasons to be angry at each other, but the grovel at the end was spectacular. I've been doing a lot of re-reads lately. I feel like I need a sold story that I know will take me where I want to go and this book did the trick.
I really like Alice Coldbreath's writing style and loved this book. I had a few issue with the pacing but for the most part it was exactly what I've come to expect from this author. I love historicals and this arranged marriage story was so angsty, romantic and satisfying.
Safe read.
I really like Alice Coldbreath's writing style and loved this book. I had a few issue with the pacing but for the most part it was exactly what I've come to expect from this author. I love historicals and this arranged marriage story was so angsty, romantic and satisfying.
Safe read.
March 2, 2020
This book was awesome. When I look back to all those times I wanted to read a HR and couldn't find any to hold my attention for more than 20 minutes, if only I had found you sooner, Alice. If only.
Got book 1 of the Vadwery series and I'm already digging in.
Got book 1 of the Vadwery series and I'm already digging in.
December 31, 2023
3,0 ✨✨✨
July 21, 2024
Re-read on 17th of July 2022
I've been hankering for Alice Coldbreath books (her new books aren't out yet), so I decided to re-read the first three of the Brides of Karadok series. I really enjoyed this one. Twice-widowed, thrice-married Mathilde was perfect for woman-hating Guy. Sure, he had valid reasons for hating his Southern wife (he was from the North, who lost the war, and his bride was forced upon him by (who else!) but the Earl of Vawdrey).
Mathilde realised life was passing her by and decided to go North and seek Guy to have a real marriage. She dressed up as a boy and took one of her pages, Robert, with her. I loved Ms Coldbreath's heroine. They take matters into their own hands instead of letting things happen. She showed up at Guy's doorstep looking worst for the wear. Guy didn't believe she was his wife. He thought his Southern wife sent her for nefarious purposes. He put her in his hunting lodge, and everyone thought she was his mistress. The thing with her heroes; is when they fall for the heroine, they fall hard. There was a bit of drama with Guy's ex-fiancee, Julia, who wanted to reel him in as her husband lay dying. The confrontation scene was painful to read. Mathilde thought Guy wanted to set Julia as his legal wife (he had no intention of doing so, but men being men, he was too lazy to confront her about it). The grovelling that came after was pretty good. Mathilde did make him suffer.
I could do without Guy calling Mathilde a little bitch at the end (she demanded him to get back the family necklace from Julia; Guy sent it to Julia as a betrothal token).
All in all, this was a satisfying read.
Steam factor: Only 3 love scenes so this put it in my mid-steam. Who would have thought timid, mousy Mathilde could be a bit of an autocratic in the bedroom?
I've been hankering for Alice Coldbreath books (her new books aren't out yet), so I decided to re-read the first three of the Brides of Karadok series. I really enjoyed this one. Twice-widowed, thrice-married Mathilde was perfect for woman-hating Guy. Sure, he had valid reasons for hating his Southern wife (he was from the North, who lost the war, and his bride was forced upon him by (who else!) but the Earl of Vawdrey).
Mathilde realised life was passing her by and decided to go North and seek Guy to have a real marriage. She dressed up as a boy and took one of her pages, Robert, with her. I loved Ms Coldbreath's heroine. They take matters into their own hands instead of letting things happen. She showed up at Guy's doorstep looking worst for the wear. Guy didn't believe she was his wife. He thought his Southern wife sent her for nefarious purposes. He put her in his hunting lodge, and everyone thought she was his mistress. The thing with her heroes; is when they fall for the heroine, they fall hard. There was a bit of drama with Guy's ex-fiancee, Julia, who wanted to reel him in as her husband lay dying. The confrontation scene was painful to read. Mathilde thought Guy wanted to set Julia as his legal wife (he had no intention of doing so, but men being men, he was too lazy to confront her about it). The grovelling that came after was pretty good. Mathilde did make him suffer.
I could do without Guy calling Mathilde a little bitch at the end (she demanded him to get back the family necklace from Julia; Guy sent it to Julia as a betrothal token).
All in all, this was a satisfying read.
Steam factor: Only 3 love scenes so this put it in my mid-steam. Who would have thought timid, mousy Mathilde could be a bit of an autocratic in the bedroom?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2021
Loving Alice Coldbreath's take on medieval romance that began with the Vawdrey Brothers and continues in Brides of Karadok. If you caught a glimpse of Mathilde in His Forsaken Bride, you will be surprised to see the Mouse is no longer afraid of her own shadow. Pretending to be a boy and escaping the court will do that to a person.
This was a very charming read. Some angst as heroine is optimistic that she can win the hero's love. Meanwhile, hero thinks heroine is not who she says she is and stashes her in his lodge like a mistress. It reminded me of Her Bridegroom, Bought and Paid For, where the heroine is this very optimistic person who is in love with her man and believes that her man will love her back. I'm a sucker for these heroines - they sound like doormats but I think their indomitable will and positivity gets me, and what I like is that it definitely confuses their hero.
A little bit of a shorter read, and while I would have wished for some more conflict, plot development, this is a complete and satisfying read.
This was a very charming read. Some angst as heroine is optimistic that she can win the hero's love. Meanwhile, hero thinks heroine is not who she says she is and stashes her in his lodge like a mistress. It reminded me of Her Bridegroom, Bought and Paid For, where the heroine is this very optimistic person who is in love with her man and believes that her man will love her back. I'm a sucker for these heroines - they sound like doormats but I think their indomitable will and positivity gets me, and what I like is that it definitely confuses their hero.
A little bit of a shorter read, and while I would have wished for some more conflict, plot development, this is a complete and satisfying read.
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