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Rhynan #1
Duty: A Novel of Rhynan
Duty to King Tomas Dyrease, the newly made Earl of Irvaine and the village of Wisenvale, owes his good fortune to his king and the recent civil war. When his benefactor demands Tomas marry the cousin of a noble, he obeys. However, no one warned him that she wasn't a typical noblewoman. Duty to Others Brielle Solarius struggles to keep her village from starvation under the new Lord Wisten, her cousin. The men rode off to war and never returned. The remaining women and children face a dire winter if they do not find a solution soon. When she learns her cousin sold her into marriage to save his life, she isn't surprised. However, she is taken aback by Lord Irvaine's unpolished ways. Was this man a noble or a foot soldier? Duty to Each Other Bound by the words of their vows, they face a rough future. They must forge a marriage while battling betrayal, accusations of treason, and villains from the past. Survival depends on their precarious trust in each other. Failure could mean death.
544 pages, Paperback
First published February 2, 2012
44 people are currently reading
917 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Rossano
26 books453 followersRachel Rossano is a happily married mother of three children. She spends her days teaching, mothering, and keeping the chaos at bay. After the little ones are in bed, she immerses herself in the fantasy worlds of her books. Tales of romance, adventure, and virtue set in a medieval fantasy world are her preference, but she also writes speculative fantasy and a bit of science fiction.
She loves to read, discuss, and listen to comments on a wide variety of topics, both fiction and non-fiction.
She loves to read, discuss, and listen to comments on a wide variety of topics, both fiction and non-fiction.
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February 9, 2013I'll start by saying that this is probably the most romance heavy story I have ever read, and there is a little more kissing and reference to a couple's marriage bed than I am 100% comfortable with. That said, there is nothing explicit or inappropriate. The main character, Brielle, is a likable character, and I quickly came to respect the honor shown by her husband. I enjoyed the way the stakes were steadily raised throughout the story. I was also happy to find that this self-published book is polished, clean and well written.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 21, 2023
2023 reread: It's been ten years (almost exactly) since I read this the first time. It's even better now. I don't think I could have appreciated then what I do now: the amazing and swoon-worthy romance that Rachel wove without one once of dirt. Yes, this is a marriage-of-convenience type book, but is rich and deep in real love.
Note: this book is clean fiction with hints of faith. While not strictly "Chistian Fiction" this book has characters that exude exemplary character and well worth the read time.
Age Appropriate For: 16 and up (for marital themes)
Best for ages: 18 and up
I was so excited when Rachel asked me to review this book. Although I have followed her blog and Facebook page, I had yet to read one of her books. After reading Duty, I can't wait to read another book by her.
This book kept me turning pages. From the opening line, I was hooked. It was fast-paced but not dazzlingly so. I also instantly connected with Tomas and Brielle and loved getting to know them.
This story, though set in a fictional country, felt well-researched. As a history buff whose favorite time period is the Middle Ages, I was very impressed with the historical aspects of this book. I especially liked the attitudes displayed by the women at the beginning of the book. Too often, we put our 21st-century ideas of love, and marriage into historical fiction. Women didn't expect to marry for love, or even marry someone they knew well. They may have wanted that, but it wasn't the expectation.
The romance was so sweet. I just loved how it unfolded. Because the characters are married for most of the book, and the romance comes after marriage, this book is for older audiences However, Rachel was very discreet and so a someone in their middle teens might like it.
I highly recommend this book for those who like romance.
I received this story from the author in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
Note: this book is clean fiction with hints of faith. While not strictly "Chistian Fiction" this book has characters that exude exemplary character and well worth the read time.
Age Appropriate For: 16 and up (for marital themes)
Best for ages: 18 and up
I was so excited when Rachel asked me to review this book. Although I have followed her blog and Facebook page, I had yet to read one of her books. After reading Duty, I can't wait to read another book by her.
This book kept me turning pages. From the opening line, I was hooked. It was fast-paced but not dazzlingly so. I also instantly connected with Tomas and Brielle and loved getting to know them.
This story, though set in a fictional country, felt well-researched. As a history buff whose favorite time period is the Middle Ages, I was very impressed with the historical aspects of this book. I especially liked the attitudes displayed by the women at the beginning of the book. Too often, we put our 21st-century ideas of love, and marriage into historical fiction. Women didn't expect to marry for love, or even marry someone they knew well. They may have wanted that, but it wasn't the expectation.
The romance was so sweet. I just loved how it unfolded. Because the characters are married for most of the book, and the romance comes after marriage, this book is for older audiences However, Rachel was very discreet and so a someone in their middle teens might like it.
I highly recommend this book for those who like romance.
I received this story from the author in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
November 29, 2014
3.5 Stars
A good medieval fantasy type novel with a clean romance and a bit of bloody scenes. Duty is about Brielle Solarius who's struggling village is suddenly taken over by a stranger under the orders of the new kings, and now all the women at the village are being married off to the soldier's of the army. With provisions running low, there is no way that the village is going to be able to support her people, let alone the newcomers.
Brielle herself is suddenly thrown into a bit of surprise when she is forced to marry the man that is taking over her village Tomas Dyrease, the newly made Earl of Irvaine who has now also laid claim to Brielle's village of Wisenvale.
I liked the story. I thought it was well written. The characters were engaging, creative, and for the most part well rounded. I was a little surprised that Brielle took to Tomas so quickly, especially since she seemed to have been in great protest of this sudden forced marriage without a choice. The romance between them seemed to have blossomed fairly quickly.Even if it did bother me, it did seem to work with the way the story moved.
Tomas leaves for his home in hopes to get provisions for the village, when the village is suddenly taken over by Orwin's (Brielle's cousin's men) and now Tomas must ride out and fight his army to reclaim his property. Meanwhile, Brielle is struggling in her new home as a plot to get ride of her thickens, especially when the late earl's widow has her eyes set on Tomas, and the only way she can get back everything that she lost is to get rid of the current lady.
The story for the most part moved a little slow for me, but the where good parts that did outnumber that bad. I did like all the background information about what was happening, which I think made the book a lot more enjoyable for me. That and the fact that I really did like the characters.
I received this book for free in exchange of an honest review.
A good medieval fantasy type novel with a clean romance and a bit of bloody scenes. Duty is about Brielle Solarius who's struggling village is suddenly taken over by a stranger under the orders of the new kings, and now all the women at the village are being married off to the soldier's of the army. With provisions running low, there is no way that the village is going to be able to support her people, let alone the newcomers.
Brielle herself is suddenly thrown into a bit of surprise when she is forced to marry the man that is taking over her village Tomas Dyrease, the newly made Earl of Irvaine who has now also laid claim to Brielle's village of Wisenvale.
I liked the story. I thought it was well written. The characters were engaging, creative, and for the most part well rounded. I was a little surprised that Brielle took to Tomas so quickly, especially since she seemed to have been in great protest of this sudden forced marriage without a choice. The romance between them seemed to have blossomed fairly quickly.Even if it did bother me, it did seem to work with the way the story moved.
Tomas leaves for his home in hopes to get provisions for the village, when the village is suddenly taken over by Orwin's (Brielle's cousin's men) and now Tomas must ride out and fight his army to reclaim his property. Meanwhile, Brielle is struggling in her new home as a plot to get ride of her thickens, especially when the late earl's widow has her eyes set on Tomas, and the only way she can get back everything that she lost is to get rid of the current lady.
The story for the most part moved a little slow for me, but the where good parts that did outnumber that bad. I did like all the background information about what was happening, which I think made the book a lot more enjoyable for me. That and the fact that I really did like the characters.
I received this book for free in exchange of an honest review.
February 8, 2013
3.5
I liked this one; I thought it was a fun medieval story (set in a fictional land) with likable characters. It has a great start that sucks you in and you want to keep reading to see what will happen next. I liked our leads Tomas and Brielle; I thought they had good chemistry together. I would have liked a little more build up between them though; they fell for each other a little too quickly. I guess I enjoy the tension of arranged marriages, especially in this case where they were originally enemies and now have to marry. I liked both characters so I can see why they would fall for one another, but a bit more tension and build up would have been nice.
Which brings me to my other complaint; everything happens a little too fast. Not sure why the story couldn’t have been spread out over a longer period of time. The whole story takes place in about a month (maybe less) and there was a lot of traveling from point A to point B and back again. For example, they are just barely married and they leave to go to point B and it takes a couple days to get there. They arrive, spend one night and then he leaves to go back to the first place (I can’t remember names, and he did have a ligit reason for leaving). Brielle then spends one night there and decides it’s not safe so she also leaves and goes back to the first place. I think it would have made a little more sense to have Brielle stay for awhile, maybe build up some of the mystery and keep them apart a bit. Anyway, they rejoin each other and about a week or so later they both have to go back to point B for a final battle type thing. It was just a lot of back and forth for me.
Overall, I thought it was an enjoyable read. I loved the cover too!
Content: Clean.
I liked this one; I thought it was a fun medieval story (set in a fictional land) with likable characters. It has a great start that sucks you in and you want to keep reading to see what will happen next. I liked our leads Tomas and Brielle; I thought they had good chemistry together. I would have liked a little more build up between them though; they fell for each other a little too quickly. I guess I enjoy the tension of arranged marriages, especially in this case where they were originally enemies and now have to marry. I liked both characters so I can see why they would fall for one another, but a bit more tension and build up would have been nice.
Which brings me to my other complaint; everything happens a little too fast. Not sure why the story couldn’t have been spread out over a longer period of time. The whole story takes place in about a month (maybe less) and there was a lot of traveling from point A to point B and back again. For example, they are just barely married and they leave to go to point B and it takes a couple days to get there. They arrive, spend one night and then he leaves to go back to the first place (I can’t remember names, and he did have a ligit reason for leaving). Brielle then spends one night there and decides it’s not safe so she also leaves and goes back to the first place. I think it would have made a little more sense to have Brielle stay for awhile, maybe build up some of the mystery and keep them apart a bit. Anyway, they rejoin each other and about a week or so later they both have to go back to point B for a final battle type thing. It was just a lot of back and forth for me.
Overall, I thought it was an enjoyable read. I loved the cover too!
Content: Clean.
February 11, 2013
Duty is a story that consumed me from the get go. I liked a story when two people have to marry and don't necessarily like each other. Brielle and Tomas have great chemistry and both seem to be levelheaded. I found that Brielle is a strong leading lady and has her wits about her. Tomas is a soldier who has many battle wounds yet is tender and caring with Brielle. I felt like Tomas and Brielle were equally matched and had to learn to trust one another. I felt Ms. Rossano did a impressive job with Tomas's character flaws and all. I liked him a lot. I really like when the character seem real and they felt that way to me in Duty. I kinda felt the story was a little rushed. I would have enjoyed a little more foundation for Tomas and Brielle's relationship before they were separated. This story has a lot of movement in a short amount of time. It would have been nice to be in one location longer than a night. That being said I still found Duty to be a beautifully written story, filled with romance, mystery and some unexpected events! I will be looking forward to Ms. Rossano's next story! I hope you all enjoy this read as much as I did!
Just FYI~ This story does contain some violence, but no sex or swearing.
Just FYI~ This story does contain some violence, but no sex or swearing.
February 20, 2013
3.5 stars.
I first read Rachel Rossano's writing when I won her short story Exchange on goodreads and reviewed it. Since then I've followed her blog and read snippets of her subsequent releases.
By the time Duty came out I was familiar with her style of writing and world building.
In an alternate medieval world, in the land of Rhynan, a war has come to end and a new king is sitting on the throne. He rewards his men with title and land, and one of them, now the new Earl of Irvaine, he gives the task of securing the eastern border land by settling his soldiers in the village of Wisenvale and taking wives from the widows and women of marriageable age.
One of these women is Brielle Solaris. She was the daughter of the late nobleman who was lord of this village, but now lives in relative obscurity because the land has passed on to her careless and selfish cousin, Orwin.
When Lord Irvaine begins the process of settling his men into domesticity in her village, they cross words. But then Lord Irvaine reveals that her own fate has already been sealed by her cousin who, in a show of loyalty to the king, has given her hand and his properties to Lord Irvaine.
Brielle's life changes from worrying about feeding her village for one more season to worrying about traitors and politics and the affection of a husband who is a stranger and yet becoming quickly the most familiar and steady thing in her world.
I'm very fond of the marriage of convenience trope. Imagine strangers suddenly forced to share lives, needing to trust each other, trying to be friends, not really expecting more. Put them in the midst of turmoil where they have to show a united front to the world outside. They hardly know each other! So it's a quiet fight against time as they try to learn and take measure of each other's characters. Because a weak partnership could be used against them. And in that time if they suddenly find that what they thought was the worst sort of travesty had actually become the best source of comfort and support? That would make an awesome romance! =D
So Brielle and Tomas, Lord Irvaine, travel to his new holdings and they begin the process of learning and trusting each other. The men in her village, most of who were now dead, had fought on the other side of the war. Distrust was natural. Brielle has only ever received kindness from her father and now finds herself expecting Tomas to show the darker side of his nature every time she speaks out or argues with him. But unexpectedly, he understands what she is feeling, he is kind and sweet, and even though Brielle has not quite wrapped her head around being married to a stranger, Tomas is already thinking that maybe agreeing to this had not been one of his worst ideas.
But as they grow closer, a rebellion led by Orwin and supported by the baron robbers of the east rears its head. Unexpected responsibility falls on Brielle's shoulders when in Tomas's absence she is faced with sedition in their new holdings. Just when they thought war had finally ended, a new one begins to brew.
I think what I enjoyed best about this book was the care Rossano took in giving us a heroine who took tough decisions and stood by her word, but was also ordinary in a relate-able way. She had been trained in wielding a sword by her father, but in no way was she competent enough to fight a trained, battle-hardened soldier. She wasn't used to riding for long stretches of time and so when she suddenly had to spend days on a horse, she didn't magically get used to it. When towards the end she faced a charge of treason and knew that she could hang, she doubted Tomas's assurance that everything would be alright because despite her feelings for him, she knew he wasn't infallible and her trust in him didn't blind her to that.
If I have any complains at all, it has to do with a few mild anachronisms like the use of the words "noodles" and "hi" in a middle ages setting. =)
Otherwise, this is a sweet love story set in the background of a king establishing a new regime. I thought it was pretty well told and I especially liked the idea that the king now on throne wasn't necessarily wiser or better than the previous one, and under pressure could become just as paranoid as the ruler he just deposed. The ending was believable.
I first read Rachel Rossano's writing when I won her short story Exchange on goodreads and reviewed it. Since then I've followed her blog and read snippets of her subsequent releases.
By the time Duty came out I was familiar with her style of writing and world building.
In an alternate medieval world, in the land of Rhynan, a war has come to end and a new king is sitting on the throne. He rewards his men with title and land, and one of them, now the new Earl of Irvaine, he gives the task of securing the eastern border land by settling his soldiers in the village of Wisenvale and taking wives from the widows and women of marriageable age.
One of these women is Brielle Solaris. She was the daughter of the late nobleman who was lord of this village, but now lives in relative obscurity because the land has passed on to her careless and selfish cousin, Orwin.
When Lord Irvaine begins the process of settling his men into domesticity in her village, they cross words. But then Lord Irvaine reveals that her own fate has already been sealed by her cousin who, in a show of loyalty to the king, has given her hand and his properties to Lord Irvaine.
Brielle's life changes from worrying about feeding her village for one more season to worrying about traitors and politics and the affection of a husband who is a stranger and yet becoming quickly the most familiar and steady thing in her world.
I'm very fond of the marriage of convenience trope. Imagine strangers suddenly forced to share lives, needing to trust each other, trying to be friends, not really expecting more. Put them in the midst of turmoil where they have to show a united front to the world outside. They hardly know each other! So it's a quiet fight against time as they try to learn and take measure of each other's characters. Because a weak partnership could be used against them. And in that time if they suddenly find that what they thought was the worst sort of travesty had actually become the best source of comfort and support? That would make an awesome romance! =D
So Brielle and Tomas, Lord Irvaine, travel to his new holdings and they begin the process of learning and trusting each other. The men in her village, most of who were now dead, had fought on the other side of the war. Distrust was natural. Brielle has only ever received kindness from her father and now finds herself expecting Tomas to show the darker side of his nature every time she speaks out or argues with him. But unexpectedly, he understands what she is feeling, he is kind and sweet, and even though Brielle has not quite wrapped her head around being married to a stranger, Tomas is already thinking that maybe agreeing to this had not been one of his worst ideas.
But as they grow closer, a rebellion led by Orwin and supported by the baron robbers of the east rears its head. Unexpected responsibility falls on Brielle's shoulders when in Tomas's absence she is faced with sedition in their new holdings. Just when they thought war had finally ended, a new one begins to brew.
I think what I enjoyed best about this book was the care Rossano took in giving us a heroine who took tough decisions and stood by her word, but was also ordinary in a relate-able way. She had been trained in wielding a sword by her father, but in no way was she competent enough to fight a trained, battle-hardened soldier. She wasn't used to riding for long stretches of time and so when she suddenly had to spend days on a horse, she didn't magically get used to it. When towards the end she faced a charge of treason and knew that she could hang, she doubted Tomas's assurance that everything would be alright because despite her feelings for him, she knew he wasn't infallible and her trust in him didn't blind her to that.
If I have any complains at all, it has to do with a few mild anachronisms like the use of the words "noodles" and "hi" in a middle ages setting. =)
Otherwise, this is a sweet love story set in the background of a king establishing a new regime. I thought it was pretty well told and I especially liked the idea that the king now on throne wasn't necessarily wiser or better than the previous one, and under pressure could become just as paranoid as the ruler he just deposed. The ending was believable.
December 23, 2014
4.5
*Book source ~ A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Tomas Dyrease, the new Earl of Irvaine shows up in Wisenvale to claim his new bride and the widowed women for his men. After the battle that ended the war and put him on the throne, King Mendel has rewarded his most faithful followers with land, titles and brides. Luckily for the women of Wisenvale, Tomas is a fair man who tolerates no abuse. Lady Brielle Solarius, daughter of the former Lord of Wisenvale, is to be the new Earl’s bride. But she is surprised when Tomas gives her a choice to say no. In a leap of faith she says yes and in that moment her whole life changes.
The fantasy world of Rhynan is very similar to medieval England or Scotland and I do love that time period. The world is beautifully detailed and the characters are well-fleshed. From the moment this tale began the action kept me on my toes. Tomas and Brielle are barely married when things start going to hell in a hand basket. Problem after problem crops up and has to be dealt with all while they are trying to get to know each other and make their marriage work. I kept thinking, “This poor couple. Give them a break already!” lol The pacing did seem to drag a bit in a few places, but overall this is a wonderful, clean, historical-type romance. Lose yourself in Rhynan. You won’t regret it.
*Book source ~ A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Tomas Dyrease, the new Earl of Irvaine shows up in Wisenvale to claim his new bride and the widowed women for his men. After the battle that ended the war and put him on the throne, King Mendel has rewarded his most faithful followers with land, titles and brides. Luckily for the women of Wisenvale, Tomas is a fair man who tolerates no abuse. Lady Brielle Solarius, daughter of the former Lord of Wisenvale, is to be the new Earl’s bride. But she is surprised when Tomas gives her a choice to say no. In a leap of faith she says yes and in that moment her whole life changes.
The fantasy world of Rhynan is very similar to medieval England or Scotland and I do love that time period. The world is beautifully detailed and the characters are well-fleshed. From the moment this tale began the action kept me on my toes. Tomas and Brielle are barely married when things start going to hell in a hand basket. Problem after problem crops up and has to be dealt with all while they are trying to get to know each other and make their marriage work. I kept thinking, “This poor couple. Give them a break already!” lol The pacing did seem to drag a bit in a few places, but overall this is a wonderful, clean, historical-type romance. Lose yourself in Rhynan. You won’t regret it.
October 11, 2018
This book had a 5-star moosh factor. I was swooning and grinning like an idiot almost the entire time.
And I loved that ship wasn't full of misunderstandings and lack of honest communication. How refreshing!
But I’m actually rating it a 4.5 because it wasn’t completely perfect in other areas. I’m not in the mood for spoilers, so I won’t go into detail. But I felt like our MC could have been a little more rockstar at the end, and I didn’t love the way the treason issue was resolved.
Overall, I loved it! Thank you so much, Joelle!
And I loved that ship wasn't full of misunderstandings and lack of honest communication. How refreshing!
But I’m actually rating it a 4.5 because it wasn’t completely perfect in other areas. I’m not in the mood for spoilers, so I won’t go into detail. But I felt like our MC could have been a little more rockstar at the end, and I didn’t love the way the treason issue was resolved.
Overall, I loved it! Thank you so much, Joelle!
July 23, 2014
I always enjoy a good fantasy and one set in a medieval-esque setting is one of the best ways to pique my interest. Of course, the premise is one that can handled very badly or very skillfully. I was pleased to find it was definitely the latter.
Plot – Grade A
The premise of the book rests on the arranged marriage of Brielle and Tomas. But, there’s more at work than “Will they or won’t they fall in love?” Loyalty and duty, most especially the struggle to balance duty to home and to King, are also key factors. The main characters have their marriage forged by fire, which makes the plot stand out to me as one of the best in-depth explorations of how to take the archetype arranged marriage plot and fashion it into something far more interesting and intriguing as layers are added to both plot and characters. The main characters, Tomas and Brielle, are imperfect and struggle with the various challenges their marriage brings, but I connected with them and wanted them to make it work.
Content – Grade A
This is a clean fantasy on the romance front. While there are kisses and you can read between the lines at a certain point to guess that the marriage was consummated, it is very chaste overall. No true bedroom scenes except for Tomas and Brielle sharing a bedroll while they’re camping (part of the show to make it seem they are a very loving couple already) and there are references to married life, including bedding a new wife but it is tasteful. There is also a case where Brielle overhears herself being promised as a reward, but that is also handled well without venturing too far into grittiness to be disconcerting.
There are references to the less scrupulous raiders pillaging the villages and leaving fatherless children in their wake. Tomas himself is illegitimate and his mother is slandered several times by the villains for having a child out of wedlock. However, even this is handled with dignity as the worst names written out are “harlot” and “witch” with the more descriptive slander being left unsaid as the focus shifts to Brielle’s reaction. The worst language used is also in connection to the illegitimacy of Tomas with a villain describing him as “baseborn” and then Tomas himself struggles with the bitterness and declares himself to be “bastardborn.” That’s as crass as it gets and I do give more leeway since the description doesn’t carry the same unfortunate connotations as it would if the “-born” had been left off.
There is violence in this book. Battles are fought and people are wounded or die. Blood is present, especially when the wounded are being tended to, but the descriptions never come across as gratuitous.
Technical – Grade B+
There are only a few typos and wrong or missing words used in this book. I found one spot where a word was missing and another place where the wrong homonym was used, “shear will” instead of “sheer will.” There are two places where I was confused due to a description: First, the time of day changing two or three times – the sun was described as setting, then it was before noon, and then it was some time after noon…all in the same short span of time. I could not figure that scene out, but it seemed likely that this was a blending of the drafts that didn’t quite manage to be as uniform as it should have been. The second time was in the final battle where one sentence looks as though the word choice was changed but the previous words weren’t deleted.
I try to be lenient with medieval-esque fantasies (as opposed to my unyielding expectations for historicals) when it comes to phrases that don’t always fit the time period. However, there were a few times when the choice of phrase or word pulled me out of the moment because it sounds too modern. For example, when Tomas tells a friend to “Tell (Friend’s Wife) I said hi.” That really pulled me out of the world because it comes across as too modern. But, this only happens a few times and we are so accustomed to using these phrases or words such as “okay” and “alright” (technically it really is a word, “all right” is just more common and therefore seems more right to the grammar fanatics, but I digress) in every day conversation that authors and readers may not always catch it.
Final Grade – A or 5 Stars
Overall, this is a very good and intriguing fantasy set in a medieval-esque world. The plot moves forward at a steady pace and I was fascinated by the relationship between Tomas and Brielle as they went through the various twists and turns. This book is a standalone, but there’s obvious room for expansion into the world Rossano has created with this novel and I look forward to reading the sequel. I would recommend this book to people looking for a clean Christian fantasy and enjoy fantasy novels set in a medieval-esque world. Recommended for ages 15 and up.
*Please note I was provided a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. I was not paid to provide a positive review. My opinions are my own.
Plot – Grade A
The premise of the book rests on the arranged marriage of Brielle and Tomas. But, there’s more at work than “Will they or won’t they fall in love?” Loyalty and duty, most especially the struggle to balance duty to home and to King, are also key factors. The main characters have their marriage forged by fire, which makes the plot stand out to me as one of the best in-depth explorations of how to take the archetype arranged marriage plot and fashion it into something far more interesting and intriguing as layers are added to both plot and characters. The main characters, Tomas and Brielle, are imperfect and struggle with the various challenges their marriage brings, but I connected with them and wanted them to make it work.
Content – Grade A
This is a clean fantasy on the romance front. While there are kisses and you can read between the lines at a certain point to guess that the marriage was consummated, it is very chaste overall. No true bedroom scenes except for Tomas and Brielle sharing a bedroll while they’re camping (part of the show to make it seem they are a very loving couple already) and there are references to married life, including bedding a new wife but it is tasteful. There is also a case where Brielle overhears herself being promised as a reward, but that is also handled well without venturing too far into grittiness to be disconcerting.
There are references to the less scrupulous raiders pillaging the villages and leaving fatherless children in their wake. Tomas himself is illegitimate and his mother is slandered several times by the villains for having a child out of wedlock. However, even this is handled with dignity as the worst names written out are “harlot” and “witch” with the more descriptive slander being left unsaid as the focus shifts to Brielle’s reaction. The worst language used is also in connection to the illegitimacy of Tomas with a villain describing him as “baseborn” and then Tomas himself struggles with the bitterness and declares himself to be “bastardborn.” That’s as crass as it gets and I do give more leeway since the description doesn’t carry the same unfortunate connotations as it would if the “-born” had been left off.
There is violence in this book. Battles are fought and people are wounded or die. Blood is present, especially when the wounded are being tended to, but the descriptions never come across as gratuitous.
Technical – Grade B+
There are only a few typos and wrong or missing words used in this book. I found one spot where a word was missing and another place where the wrong homonym was used, “shear will” instead of “sheer will.” There are two places where I was confused due to a description: First, the time of day changing two or three times – the sun was described as setting, then it was before noon, and then it was some time after noon…all in the same short span of time. I could not figure that scene out, but it seemed likely that this was a blending of the drafts that didn’t quite manage to be as uniform as it should have been. The second time was in the final battle where one sentence looks as though the word choice was changed but the previous words weren’t deleted.
I try to be lenient with medieval-esque fantasies (as opposed to my unyielding expectations for historicals) when it comes to phrases that don’t always fit the time period. However, there were a few times when the choice of phrase or word pulled me out of the moment because it sounds too modern. For example, when Tomas tells a friend to “Tell (Friend’s Wife) I said hi.” That really pulled me out of the world because it comes across as too modern. But, this only happens a few times and we are so accustomed to using these phrases or words such as “okay” and “alright” (technically it really is a word, “all right” is just more common and therefore seems more right to the grammar fanatics, but I digress) in every day conversation that authors and readers may not always catch it.
Final Grade – A or 5 Stars
Overall, this is a very good and intriguing fantasy set in a medieval-esque world. The plot moves forward at a steady pace and I was fascinated by the relationship between Tomas and Brielle as they went through the various twists and turns. This book is a standalone, but there’s obvious room for expansion into the world Rossano has created with this novel and I look forward to reading the sequel. I would recommend this book to people looking for a clean Christian fantasy and enjoy fantasy novels set in a medieval-esque world. Recommended for ages 15 and up.
*Please note I was provided a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. I was not paid to provide a positive review. My opinions are my own.
April 17, 2015
I'm a sucker for historical romance, and I especially love the medieval period. Something I truly appreciate from authors is their ability to present their characters with an obstacle right from the onset of the story, whether it be danger to a person, a possible spat with a spouse or some other situation that is contrary to the wishes of the protagonist, it always pulls me in and gives me a reason to continue forward, hoping for an eventual solution to our protagonist's problem.
In this instance the book started out with a bang. Having a large group of soldiers gather you and your village up to inform you that a new king reigns and he has mandated that all women of marriageable age must either marry one of the soldiers present or pay a tax (one they probably can't afford) is quite the conundrum, indeed.
Brielle is the sole protector and provider for her village as the only Lady there. She's done her best to keep the villagers fed even though her cousin comes to collect most of the food they harvest every year. When Lord Irvaine shows up and tells her that her cousin has given her to him in marriage she has an important choice to make. I found it incredible that she held to her duty and to the promise her cousin made by agreeing to remain in a marriage previously performed by proxy. My feminine sensibilities were screaming "Fight, woman, fight!", but submitting herself to Lord Irvaine ensures the protection and well-being of her village. She is kind, noble, brave and honorable.
It demonstrates the appalling lake of choices for women in that era, but these types of cultures and customs are so fascinating to learn about. Fortunately, the new Lord is good at heart and eager to turn this marriage of convenience into a love match. Getting to know Lord Irvaine's character was like eating a delicious piece of chocolate cake over and over again.
Swoon much? *insert happy sigh here*
The chemistry between him and Brielle was lovely, and the intimate aspects were clean and tasteful. This is the kind of romance I talk about when wanting a romantic connection that delivers just as much if not more than a graphic sex scene might. PG-13 clean, and I loved it.
There is literally tension on every page. The main characters go from one serious situation to another, and I found myself wondering when the couple when have a chance to breathe. I know I didn't. Basically, I couldn't put this lovely bit of fiction down, and I am sad that it ended. Rachel Rossano has established herself as a talented author of historical medieval romance, delivering the promise of danger, intrigue, romance, chivalry and adventure with characters you'll find difficult to say farewell to. I highly recommend this to lovers of historical romance.
In this instance the book started out with a bang. Having a large group of soldiers gather you and your village up to inform you that a new king reigns and he has mandated that all women of marriageable age must either marry one of the soldiers present or pay a tax (one they probably can't afford) is quite the conundrum, indeed.
Brielle is the sole protector and provider for her village as the only Lady there. She's done her best to keep the villagers fed even though her cousin comes to collect most of the food they harvest every year. When Lord Irvaine shows up and tells her that her cousin has given her to him in marriage she has an important choice to make. I found it incredible that she held to her duty and to the promise her cousin made by agreeing to remain in a marriage previously performed by proxy. My feminine sensibilities were screaming "Fight, woman, fight!", but submitting herself to Lord Irvaine ensures the protection and well-being of her village. She is kind, noble, brave and honorable.
It demonstrates the appalling lake of choices for women in that era, but these types of cultures and customs are so fascinating to learn about. Fortunately, the new Lord is good at heart and eager to turn this marriage of convenience into a love match. Getting to know Lord Irvaine's character was like eating a delicious piece of chocolate cake over and over again.
Swoon much? *insert happy sigh here*
The chemistry between him and Brielle was lovely, and the intimate aspects were clean and tasteful. This is the kind of romance I talk about when wanting a romantic connection that delivers just as much if not more than a graphic sex scene might. PG-13 clean, and I loved it.
There is literally tension on every page. The main characters go from one serious situation to another, and I found myself wondering when the couple when have a chance to breathe. I know I didn't. Basically, I couldn't put this lovely bit of fiction down, and I am sad that it ended. Rachel Rossano has established herself as a talented author of historical medieval romance, delivering the promise of danger, intrigue, romance, chivalry and adventure with characters you'll find difficult to say farewell to. I highly recommend this to lovers of historical romance.
September 10, 2016
While I don't usually care much for the romance genre, I do find romances involving arranged marriages intriguing, so when the author, a fellow homeschooler, asked for reviewers for her newest release, I volunteered.
The story begins with Brielle’s discovery that her cousin has given her in marriage to the new lord of Irvaine. She isn’t too pleased with this, since she and her cousin have never gotten along. However, since the king is the one who gave the orders, she has no choice.
Tomas, her new husband, is a good man, though very rough around the edges. While he does insist that they show affection in public so that certain people don't get suspicious, he allows her her space when they're in private, allowing them to get to know each other.
Of course, once they are married, he must continue his journey to his new castle. That's when the plot starts thickening. A messenger follows them with the news that her village has been attacked and the women that had been in Brielle's charge are in danger - and Brielle's cousin is one of the attackers. When they reach Kyrenton, the capitol, more treachery awaits. The wife of the former Lord Irvaine is desperate to keep her position, and one of the lords had an old grudge against Tomas.
The book is fast paced, but there were only a few times that I became confused as to what was going on. I was impressed by how she handled delicate issues, and I was on the edge of my chair while Brielle was on trial because she was suspected to be in league with her cousin. The scene where Brielle is forced to take part in the big battle was well done and believable.
My only complaint is the fact that, while Brielle seems to have a strong faith in Kurios, which is what they call God in Rachel Rossano's world, I didn't feel that this faith was integral to the book. Yes she prayed to him often, but I felt that she relied more on duty and her own strength instead of that faith. However, that was just one drawback in an otherwise wonderful book.
The story begins with Brielle’s discovery that her cousin has given her in marriage to the new lord of Irvaine. She isn’t too pleased with this, since she and her cousin have never gotten along. However, since the king is the one who gave the orders, she has no choice.
Tomas, her new husband, is a good man, though very rough around the edges. While he does insist that they show affection in public so that certain people don't get suspicious, he allows her her space when they're in private, allowing them to get to know each other.
Of course, once they are married, he must continue his journey to his new castle. That's when the plot starts thickening. A messenger follows them with the news that her village has been attacked and the women that had been in Brielle's charge are in danger - and Brielle's cousin is one of the attackers. When they reach Kyrenton, the capitol, more treachery awaits. The wife of the former Lord Irvaine is desperate to keep her position, and one of the lords had an old grudge against Tomas.
The book is fast paced, but there were only a few times that I became confused as to what was going on. I was impressed by how she handled delicate issues, and I was on the edge of my chair while Brielle was on trial because she was suspected to be in league with her cousin. The scene where Brielle is forced to take part in the big battle was well done and believable.
My only complaint is the fact that, while Brielle seems to have a strong faith in Kurios, which is what they call God in Rachel Rossano's world, I didn't feel that this faith was integral to the book. Yes she prayed to him often, but I felt that she relied more on duty and her own strength instead of that faith. However, that was just one drawback in an otherwise wonderful book.
March 14, 2013
This was my 2nd book By Rachel Rossano and I really enjoyed it. Other reviews have said that love came too quickly for the characters, but I disagree and tend to think that if God were to bring about such a marriage between two people of such admirable qualities, then He could give those people an instant attraction followed shortly by love for one another (knowing that you're gonna hafta spend the rest of your life with them anyway kinda makes it easier in my mind).
The characters and setting were lovely. There were quite a few kisses and references to the marriage bed (just to warn those who prefer not to have any of that in their reading material), but Rachel managed the subject tactfully in my opinion. One thing I was a bit uncertain about was the fact that the characters call their deity by the name Kurios, and I wasn't sure if this was their interpretation of the name of God, or if it was the name of a false god.
I look forward to reading more from this author (especially after reading the bit from her new book, included in the back of "Duty"). Thank you, Rachel, for a splendid read!
The characters and setting were lovely. There were quite a few kisses and references to the marriage bed (just to warn those who prefer not to have any of that in their reading material), but Rachel managed the subject tactfully in my opinion. One thing I was a bit uncertain about was the fact that the characters call their deity by the name Kurios, and I wasn't sure if this was their interpretation of the name of God, or if it was the name of a false god.
I look forward to reading more from this author (especially after reading the bit from her new book, included in the back of "Duty"). Thank you, Rachel, for a splendid read!
July 6, 2014
Meet Brielle Solarius, a noblewoman in a light medievalish fantasy setting whose loathsome cousin has just arranged her marriage to the new king's right-hand man. Tomas Dyrease is kind enough to give Brielle a chance to refuse him, but Brielle's duty to her embattled people forces her to agree. In the aftermath of a civil war, with plots and intrigues piling up around them and their lives and people at risk, will Brielle and Tomas learn to pull together before danger pulls them apart?
This was generally a competent book. Definitely on the guilty-pleasure end of the scale, definitely written in an occasionally awkward modern style with the usual occasional outcropping of misused words, but a fun, absorbing, competently-written romance in a light fantasy setting with reasonable courtly intrigue and some fantastic themes.
Read the rest of my review, together with an interview with the author, at my blog, Vintage Novels.
This was generally a competent book. Definitely on the guilty-pleasure end of the scale, definitely written in an occasionally awkward modern style with the usual occasional outcropping of misused words, but a fun, absorbing, competently-written romance in a light fantasy setting with reasonable courtly intrigue and some fantastic themes.
Read the rest of my review, together with an interview with the author, at my blog, Vintage Novels.
October 31, 2014
I used to read a LOT of historical fiction (ones set in the medieval times were my favorites) but became hard to find one that didn't have the sexual content so I started reading less and less. Duty, however, fondly reminded me of some of my old loves! It's not historical in the traditional sense (i.e. set in our history). I would probably call it more medieval fantasy perhaps. I loved the character interaction between all of the characters. Especially Dentin and Rathenridge! They would always make me chuckle. I also enjoyed Tomas and Brielle (oh and by the way, how beautiful is that name??!!) getting to know one another (fast though it was) and, more importantly, learning how to trust. This is a fairly fast paced read and one I read within a day (helped that internet was down so less distractions *wink*). I was so excited when I saw that there would be another one and will definitely be reading it when it becomes available! Definitely recommend this one!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
November 1, 2014
Duty can be described as a rich medieval-type tale. I really enjoyed reading it. The thing I liked best about this book was the hero’s sense of chivalry and utter respect, loyalty, love, and dedication to his wife despite the unusual circumstance of their marriage. I really enjoyed this story and felt like it didn’t follow a conventional romance (there weren’t many obstacles to the couple liking each other), but had an interesting story of political intrigue. The reason I gave it 4 stars is I wanted more to read in the story (I felt there wasn’t an obvious conventional story arc), and especially at the beginning, I found myself glancing back to reread when I felt like I missed an important detail (she doesn’t give a lot of background detail as to the history of the place or the characters, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing because you get the sense that it is there, just not described). I loved the characters and wanted to hear more about the secondary characters’ stories. I look forward to reading more by Rossano. I was given a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2013
Duty reads like a historical novel, but it’s set in a land called Rhynan. After a brutal civil war, Tomas is ordered to marry Brielle to strengthen the allegiances in the region. Brielle does her duty and accepts the arranged marriage, but Tomas has to earn her love and respect. Their journey to a satisfactory end is interrupted by deceit and violence. Duty was everything I expected from Rachel. I love her characters. I love the action. I love the kissing. I love the romance. The only thing I hate about Rachel’s books is finishing one…and waiting for the next one. I hope it comes fast, because I’m already anxious to read it.
October 28, 2014
I like marriage of convenience stories, and I really liked the lead characters in this one: Tomas and Brielle. I loved how they were both strong and they were both weak, and I felt like they complemented each other really well.
At times I found myself a little confused at all that was going on and all the different characters, but I loved how action-packed this story was. I loved all the characters and what they all brought to the story; I just wasn't always able to keep them all straight (probably a personal problem).
I will definitely be interested to read the second book in this series.
Content: Clean, no swearing
Source: Review copy (100% my own opinion)
At times I found myself a little confused at all that was going on and all the different characters, but I loved how action-packed this story was. I loved all the characters and what they all brought to the story; I just wasn't always able to keep them all straight (probably a personal problem).
I will definitely be interested to read the second book in this series.
Content: Clean, no swearing
Source: Review copy (100% my own opinion)
November 6, 2014
I really enjoyed this book! The main character Brielle is a strong, relatable, and intriguing character. From the first chapter I was hooked. I found the idea of falling in love after an arranged marriage captivating. I appreciated that although the love story is very passionate it is also clean and could be recommended to a teen. This novel cannot be called a love story alone. The plot constantly took me to unexpected places. It was action packed and the development of side characters keeps you guessing who can be trusted. I would definitely be interested in reading the next book in this series.
November 11, 2014
I enjoyed this book quite a bit. It's nice to read about a brave heroine, like Brielle, who stands up for herself and for her subjects. Tomas was awesome. Often in arranged marriages everyone feels bad for the woman, but Tomas didn't choose this marriage either and he was amazing. He was loyal to his vows and such a good man. I would have enjoyed a little more conflict from an arranged marriage, but sometimes it just works. It was good that they had each other with so much conflict surrounding them.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2014
Duty’s main characters are genuine and admirable. Their struggles and emotional turmoil are poignant, drawing the reader into their lives.
Full review in April 2013 issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Full review in April 2013 issue of InD'tale Magazine.
February 24, 2020
I can’t believe I forgot to review this book years ago when I read it! Now all I remember is that I thoroughly enjoyed it.
February 13, 2021
A powerful Medieval drama that keeps one breathless from beginning to end, this novel had me intrigued and spellbound. I love the main characters, their determination and strength, and the fact that they do not waiver from their values in the face of betrayal. Faced with being over-run by the enemy is something that every community dreads, where the winner takes all and the lives of the people are in the hands of soldiers. Most times it goes really badly for them, but in this instance, Tomas Dyrease proves to be an honourable and wise leader, and the rules he lays down for his men win the approval of the villagers. Brielle Solarius, the daughter of the previous Earl, has been working alongside the people of the village to keep heart and soul together before she discovers that her conniving cousin has sold her off to Tomas to save his own skin. What seems to be a dire situation in fact turns out to be one of the best things that has ever happened to Brielle, if it were not for the fact that Tomas is facing enemies of his own. I found this well-written book difficult to put down and it kept me entranced. Although part of a series it is a standalone and I was so glad that it came to a successful conclusion. I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily post this review. This is my honest review.
September 9, 2020
I've wanted to read this series for a good while now. And I came across them again, the author had said she'd be willing to send me an ecopy of her books, making my day since I was on a long drive and I had lots of time to read. Reading while wrapped in a cozy blanket, my brother and sister closest in age to me each asleep on my shoulders, and sucked into the story of Duty.
Having one of my favorite tropes (unwilling/grudged/and marriages of convenience) in it, I was thrilled as I followed along with the characters. A novel of bravery, love, war, and overcoming betrayal, Duty is a medieval story not to be missed by lovers of pure, caring couples, knights and ladies, and most of all sweet true romance.
I voluntarily received and reviewed a complimentary e/copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher/review company. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Having one of my favorite tropes (unwilling/grudged/and marriages of convenience) in it, I was thrilled as I followed along with the characters. A novel of bravery, love, war, and overcoming betrayal, Duty is a medieval story not to be missed by lovers of pure, caring couples, knights and ladies, and most of all sweet true romance.
I voluntarily received and reviewed a complimentary e/copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher/review company. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
February 15, 2021
This book grabbed me from the first page. I read it in a day, I just couldn’t put it down. Lady Brielle Solarius isn’t like the usual lady, she isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty, she helps in the fields and has trained as a warrior. As her land is taken by a new force , she is married to Lord Tomas Irvaine. Tomas is the new earl but he is an honourable man. This is a good paced story with plenty of action and a tender romance that grows between Brielle and Tomas. There are many dangerous events, treachery and uncertainty. This will keep you turning the pages until the end. I received a copy via eBooks Discovery and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 23, 2014
DUTY an Action Packed Medieval Romance
I thought that DUTY: A Novel of Rhynan by Rachel Rossano was extremely well done, I was really caught up in the story of Brielle Solarius and Tomas Tyrease they were such strong characters both of whom knew the meaning of duty to their King, family and those who they look after.
The book starts with Brielle is dressed and working in the fields along with the villagers of Wisevale, a poor holding to be sure that there is food for the next few weeks before starvation takes hold of them, when an army(or so it seems) of 150 men under the command of Tomas, Earl of Irvaine and Wisevale much to the distress of the village because there are only women, children and old men in the village..
King Mendal of Ranterland is their ruler but they did not even know there was a war on and he has decreed that all women of Wisevale be married to his men to consolidate his rule and because Brielle Solarius daughter of the late Tyranen Solarius Late Earl of Irvaine marry Tomas Nirren Dyrease, Earl of Irvaine & Wisevale and one of his commanders who has been ordered to hold the easternmost border of Rhynan. Brielle was dragged through the dust and thrown in the dust in front of the commander Tomas, Earl of Irvaine & Wisevale, who is a battle hardened knight just like his men who start setting up two men tents.
All present and accounted for 35 women of marriageable age and 25 dwellings in the village of Wisvale.
Then Tomas announces that Brielle is now her cousin Orwin's surety that he will be loyal to the new King, Mendal and she is to watch while the women chose from the men who will be there new husband or they have to pay with an animal or feed and board one of his men.. of course there is hardly any food in the village and they agree to marry his men.
Brielle has no choice of husband Tomas, Earl of Irvaine and has been told that she has to watch while the women chose and not to interfere at all but of course she tries.. then she has to be married before the villagers and his men...
Brielle marries Tomas and then faints.. the officiate Ryanir wants a bedding ceremony but Tomas says only one of men, Jarvin will do so because Tomas says SO, after a while Tomas sends him out saying ' see that Ryanir gets his evidence" all the wedding night she slept!
The next morning they left with half the knights to ride to the holdings capital Kyrenton 3 days away.
Duty by Rachel Rossano is a journey during which we have battles, deceit, kidnapping, betrayal and love! Both Brielle and Tomas are strong characters each intelligent and 'battle' weary in their own ways, they are well matched and spirited people because of their backgrounds. Both of these characters know the commitment and meaning of Duty!!
Even though he is a battle scarred knight he has a tender heart and is willing to wait for her too become truly what what is right in both their minds about what true marriage could be. I loved the ending 2 years later when Tomas comes home and catches their 3 month old daughter, Linora who has been cooing at their 7 year old son Darnay, and his mother Anise. I really want to read more about these characters because all the action in the book took place in a very short period of time. I loved that there was no sex or violence apart from the battle scenes that were not over emphasized, they were well done none the less!
All in all Duty was very well written the story of two people who marry out of duty and it turns to love, and also reminded me partly of how after historic battles and wars the knights that remain marry into the population and become one people. It is a fast paced, intriguing story that had me turning pages as fast as I could read to find out what was going to happen next I had so much invested in their tale... I hope that there are more books about Brielle, Tomas, and the rest of their family and the Kingdom of Rhynan. Rachel Rossano my only complaint is that it was too Short! Please write more books like this one because you have a fan.
4 Stars for a job well done, would have been perfect if the story had been longer!
I thought that DUTY: A Novel of Rhynan by Rachel Rossano was extremely well done, I was really caught up in the story of Brielle Solarius and Tomas Tyrease they were such strong characters both of whom knew the meaning of duty to their King, family and those who they look after.
The book starts with Brielle is dressed and working in the fields along with the villagers of Wisevale, a poor holding to be sure that there is food for the next few weeks before starvation takes hold of them, when an army(or so it seems) of 150 men under the command of Tomas, Earl of Irvaine and Wisevale much to the distress of the village because there are only women, children and old men in the village..
King Mendal of Ranterland is their ruler but they did not even know there was a war on and he has decreed that all women of Wisevale be married to his men to consolidate his rule and because Brielle Solarius daughter of the late Tyranen Solarius Late Earl of Irvaine marry Tomas Nirren Dyrease, Earl of Irvaine & Wisevale and one of his commanders who has been ordered to hold the easternmost border of Rhynan. Brielle was dragged through the dust and thrown in the dust in front of the commander Tomas, Earl of Irvaine & Wisevale, who is a battle hardened knight just like his men who start setting up two men tents.
All present and accounted for 35 women of marriageable age and 25 dwellings in the village of Wisvale.
Then Tomas announces that Brielle is now her cousin Orwin's surety that he will be loyal to the new King, Mendal and she is to watch while the women chose from the men who will be there new husband or they have to pay with an animal or feed and board one of his men.. of course there is hardly any food in the village and they agree to marry his men.
Brielle has no choice of husband Tomas, Earl of Irvaine and has been told that she has to watch while the women chose and not to interfere at all but of course she tries.. then she has to be married before the villagers and his men...
Brielle marries Tomas and then faints.. the officiate Ryanir wants a bedding ceremony but Tomas says only one of men, Jarvin will do so because Tomas says SO, after a while Tomas sends him out saying ' see that Ryanir gets his evidence" all the wedding night she slept!
The next morning they left with half the knights to ride to the holdings capital Kyrenton 3 days away.
Duty by Rachel Rossano is a journey during which we have battles, deceit, kidnapping, betrayal and love! Both Brielle and Tomas are strong characters each intelligent and 'battle' weary in their own ways, they are well matched and spirited people because of their backgrounds. Both of these characters know the commitment and meaning of Duty!!
Even though he is a battle scarred knight he has a tender heart and is willing to wait for her too become truly what what is right in both their minds about what true marriage could be. I loved the ending 2 years later when Tomas comes home and catches their 3 month old daughter, Linora who has been cooing at their 7 year old son Darnay, and his mother Anise. I really want to read more about these characters because all the action in the book took place in a very short period of time. I loved that there was no sex or violence apart from the battle scenes that were not over emphasized, they were well done none the less!
All in all Duty was very well written the story of two people who marry out of duty and it turns to love, and also reminded me partly of how after historic battles and wars the knights that remain marry into the population and become one people. It is a fast paced, intriguing story that had me turning pages as fast as I could read to find out what was going to happen next I had so much invested in their tale... I hope that there are more books about Brielle, Tomas, and the rest of their family and the Kingdom of Rhynan. Rachel Rossano my only complaint is that it was too Short! Please write more books like this one because you have a fan.
4 Stars for a job well done, would have been perfect if the story had been longer!
May 2, 2013
Duty to King
Tomas Dyrease, the newly made Earl of Irvaine and the village of Wisenvale, owes his good fortune to his king and the recent civil war. When his benefactor demands Tomas marry the cousin of a noble, he obeys. However, no one warned him that she wasn’t a typical noblewoman.
Duty to Others
Brielle Solarius struggles to keep her village from starvation under the new Lord Wisten, her cousin. The men rode off to war and never returned. The remaining women and children face a dire winter if they do not find a solution soon. When she learns her cousin sold her into marriage to save his life, she isn’t surprised. However, she is taken aback by Lord Irvaine’s unpolished ways. Was this man a noble or a foot soldier?
Duty to Each Other
Bound by the words of their vows, they face a rough future. They must forge a marriage while battling betrayal, accusations of treason, and villains from the past. Survival depends on their precarious trust in each other. Failure could mean death.
This starts off with Brielle, the Lady Solarius, being pulled from the pack of women, all that remain in their village as the men have all been killed in a battle. The Earl of Irvaine has wed her, by proxy, at the King's command. Tomas tells her to watch, leaves her with his aide, and strides off. The women are shocked that they are being asked to marry, or buy their way out of marriage. They are the spoils of war. Brielle is angry, but something in her is slightly touched when the women are allowed to choose their husbands. Women in this time don't get choices and this is something different.
Brielle's best friend, comforter, and companion is scared to death. Brielle asks the aide for help choosing for her. His help leads her to believe that maybe not all of the men are horrible.
That includes her husband. He's the new Earl, but he is unpolished, not crude, but she keeps wondering how long he's been in his elevated position. The answer is: not long.
But he's a good man, which is more than can be said for her cousin, Lord Westin. He's horrible. Someone you can really hate as the book goes on. Good times!
Something to remember as you read: This is a historical, but it's not from a real time or even a real place. Ms. Rossano has created her own world, with touches of old England. Some of the phrasing seemed a bit contemporary, but all in all it fits her world. There were a few new words that I had to look up. For example "Kurios." In her lexicon, this is the word for God. And it works, here.
I liked how these two people came together, slowly. I liked how after riding for an entire day, Brielle was sore, and tired, and her knees were weak. Her tummy also growled! I liked that. They were "real." They didn't fall immediately into love. It was something they had to work at.
Tomas is a strong, caring man of few words. There was a scene with his mother where she mentions that he "forgets" to give all the information. This was true!
This was a rousing adventure, with swords and battles...and fade to black loving. It was also inspirational. Brielle prayed for help. I liked that, too.
In fact, I enjoyed this so much that as soon as I was done, I bought "Word and Deed," a short story by the same author. I liked that one, too! And I will be reading through Ms. Rossano's catalog.
This was a FIVE BOOKMARK read for me.
Adventure, Characters with Integrity, Love.
*This book was given to Beyond the Squee by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Tomas Dyrease, the newly made Earl of Irvaine and the village of Wisenvale, owes his good fortune to his king and the recent civil war. When his benefactor demands Tomas marry the cousin of a noble, he obeys. However, no one warned him that she wasn’t a typical noblewoman.
Duty to Others
Brielle Solarius struggles to keep her village from starvation under the new Lord Wisten, her cousin. The men rode off to war and never returned. The remaining women and children face a dire winter if they do not find a solution soon. When she learns her cousin sold her into marriage to save his life, she isn’t surprised. However, she is taken aback by Lord Irvaine’s unpolished ways. Was this man a noble or a foot soldier?
Duty to Each Other
Bound by the words of their vows, they face a rough future. They must forge a marriage while battling betrayal, accusations of treason, and villains from the past. Survival depends on their precarious trust in each other. Failure could mean death.
This starts off with Brielle, the Lady Solarius, being pulled from the pack of women, all that remain in their village as the men have all been killed in a battle. The Earl of Irvaine has wed her, by proxy, at the King's command. Tomas tells her to watch, leaves her with his aide, and strides off. The women are shocked that they are being asked to marry, or buy their way out of marriage. They are the spoils of war. Brielle is angry, but something in her is slightly touched when the women are allowed to choose their husbands. Women in this time don't get choices and this is something different.
Brielle's best friend, comforter, and companion is scared to death. Brielle asks the aide for help choosing for her. His help leads her to believe that maybe not all of the men are horrible.
That includes her husband. He's the new Earl, but he is unpolished, not crude, but she keeps wondering how long he's been in his elevated position. The answer is: not long.
But he's a good man, which is more than can be said for her cousin, Lord Westin. He's horrible. Someone you can really hate as the book goes on. Good times!
Something to remember as you read: This is a historical, but it's not from a real time or even a real place. Ms. Rossano has created her own world, with touches of old England. Some of the phrasing seemed a bit contemporary, but all in all it fits her world. There were a few new words that I had to look up. For example "Kurios." In her lexicon, this is the word for God. And it works, here.
I liked how these two people came together, slowly. I liked how after riding for an entire day, Brielle was sore, and tired, and her knees were weak. Her tummy also growled! I liked that. They were "real." They didn't fall immediately into love. It was something they had to work at.
Tomas is a strong, caring man of few words. There was a scene with his mother where she mentions that he "forgets" to give all the information. This was true!
This was a rousing adventure, with swords and battles...and fade to black loving. It was also inspirational. Brielle prayed for help. I liked that, too.
In fact, I enjoyed this so much that as soon as I was done, I bought "Word and Deed," a short story by the same author. I liked that one, too! And I will be reading through Ms. Rossano's catalog.
This was a FIVE BOOKMARK read for me.
Adventure, Characters with Integrity, Love.
*This book was given to Beyond the Squee by the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2019
Whew! This one was certainly a complex and interesting adventure. Just about the time I thought I had grasped the main conflict, another one came and slapped me upside the head--over and over!
I really liked the fact that with all Brielle's strength and resourcefulness, she's not invincible. She still gets tired and sore, needs food and sleep, and isn't a match for a trained man in a swordfight. (Just that in itself was a welcome change--seriously!!! :D) And I began to love Tomas very quickly, which is quite a compliment considering my first impressions... ;) I loved a lot of the other men as well, although I'm not sure I could pull the right matches out of the sea of names I was sometimes swimming in. Tomas's closest friends especially were wonderful, and knowing the next book is about Dentin has me all the more excited for it! I'm definitely intrigued and would love to get to know him better.
As far as the antagonists went, I thought the author did a great job of differentiating them and giving them different motivations and personalities, even though we didn't always get to explore or understand them in depth. I utterly despised some of them and am still on the fence about others. And the murky political situation was really well done, too, without an easy answer to fix all the problems.
There were a couple of things that made me uncomfortable enough to knock my rating down a little, although I appreciated the tasteful way they were handled. The issue of Tomas's illegitimate birth is brought up several times and sparks some nasty name-calling, although the eventual details make it a bit less incriminating for one of the parents. Also, there's a lot of concern that Tomas and Brielle's marriage be legitimized, including a demand for witnesses at the "bedding" (this is refused) and quite a bit of worry on Brielle's part about her responsibility to eventually bear children, etc. I did appreciate the fact that when the shift eventually happens, there are no explicit references to it, though. There's also some passionate kissing, although it's not hugely descriptive. Because of these issues, though, I'd recommend it for adult readers.
Looking forward to the next book in the series!
Content--mentions of swearing; one use of "bastard" (in the literal sense); mentions of illegitimacy and the mistreatment that led to it; fears and memories of women being mistreated by men; slightly veiled references to intimacy within marriage (mostly centered around the fear of an unknown spouse and the issue of child-bearing); passionate kissing between a married couple; demands for witnesses to the wedding night (refused); a married couple seen sleeping together (no intimacy); a woman tries to ensnare a married man; mentions of low necklines and suggestive behavior; slurs against an unmarried mother, including accusations of witchcraft; mentions of drinking and drunkenness; mentions of men eyeing and speaking suggestively about women; violence, including short battle scenes; mentions of wounds, blood, and death; mentions of stillbirths and unnatural bleeding
I really liked the fact that with all Brielle's strength and resourcefulness, she's not invincible. She still gets tired and sore, needs food and sleep, and isn't a match for a trained man in a swordfight. (Just that in itself was a welcome change--seriously!!! :D) And I began to love Tomas very quickly, which is quite a compliment considering my first impressions... ;) I loved a lot of the other men as well, although I'm not sure I could pull the right matches out of the sea of names I was sometimes swimming in. Tomas's closest friends especially were wonderful, and knowing the next book is about Dentin has me all the more excited for it! I'm definitely intrigued and would love to get to know him better.
As far as the antagonists went, I thought the author did a great job of differentiating them and giving them different motivations and personalities, even though we didn't always get to explore or understand them in depth. I utterly despised some of them and am still on the fence about others. And the murky political situation was really well done, too, without an easy answer to fix all the problems.
There were a couple of things that made me uncomfortable enough to knock my rating down a little, although I appreciated the tasteful way they were handled. The issue of Tomas's illegitimate birth is brought up several times and sparks some nasty name-calling, although the eventual details make it a bit less incriminating for one of the parents. Also, there's a lot of concern that Tomas and Brielle's marriage be legitimized, including a demand for witnesses at the "bedding" (this is refused) and quite a bit of worry on Brielle's part about her responsibility to eventually bear children, etc. I did appreciate the fact that when the shift eventually happens, there are no explicit references to it, though. There's also some passionate kissing, although it's not hugely descriptive. Because of these issues, though, I'd recommend it for adult readers.
Looking forward to the next book in the series!
Content--mentions of swearing; one use of "bastard" (in the literal sense); mentions of illegitimacy and the mistreatment that led to it; fears and memories of women being mistreated by men; slightly veiled references to intimacy within marriage (mostly centered around the fear of an unknown spouse and the issue of child-bearing); passionate kissing between a married couple; demands for witnesses to the wedding night (refused); a married couple seen sleeping together (no intimacy); a woman tries to ensnare a married man; mentions of low necklines and suggestive behavior; slurs against an unmarried mother, including accusations of witchcraft; mentions of drinking and drunkenness; mentions of men eyeing and speaking suggestively about women; violence, including short battle scenes; mentions of wounds, blood, and death; mentions of stillbirths and unnatural bleeding
May 2, 2013
This starts off with Brielle, the Lady Solarius, being pulled from a pack of women, all that remain in their village as the men have all been killed in a battle. The Earl of Irvaine has wed her, by proxy, at the King's command. Tomas tells her to watch, leaves her with his aide, and strides off. The women are shocked that they are being asked to marry, or buy their way out of marriage. They are the spoils of war. Brielle is angry, but something in her is slightly touched when the women are allowed to choose their husbands. Women in this time don't get choices and this is something different.
Brielle's best friend, comforter, and companion is scared to death. Brielle asks the aide for help choosing for her. His help leads her to believe that maybe not all of the men are horrible.
That includes her husband. He's the new Earl, but he is unpolished, not crude, but she keeps wondering how long he's been in his elevated position. The answer is: not long.
But he's a good man, which is more than can be said for her cousin, Lord Westin. He's horrible. Someone you can really hate as the book goes on. Good times!
Something to remember as you read: This is a historical, but it's not from a real time or even a real place. Ms. Rossano has created her own world, with touches of old England. Some of the phrasing seemed a bit contemporary, but all in all it fits her world. There were a few new words that I had to look up. For example "Kurios." In her lexicon, this is the word for God. And it works, here.
I liked how these two people came together, slowly. I liked how after riding for an entire day, Brielle was sore, and tired, and her knees were weak. Her tummy also growled! I liked that. They were "real." They didn't fall immediately into love. It was something they had to work at.
Tomas is a strong, caring man of few words. There was a scene with his mother where she mentions that he "forgets" to give all the information. This was true!
This was a rousing adventure, with swords and battles...and fade to black loving. It was also inspirational. Brielle prayed for help. I liked that, too.
In fact, I enjoyed this so much, that as soon as I was done, I bought "Word and Deed," a short story by the same author. I liked that one, too! And I will be reading through Ms. Rossano's catalog.
Adventure, Characters with Integrity, Love.
This was a FIVE BOOKMARK read for me.
This review may also be found at:
Beyond the Squee: Book Reviews
www.beyondthesquee.com
Brielle's best friend, comforter, and companion is scared to death. Brielle asks the aide for help choosing for her. His help leads her to believe that maybe not all of the men are horrible.
That includes her husband. He's the new Earl, but he is unpolished, not crude, but she keeps wondering how long he's been in his elevated position. The answer is: not long.
But he's a good man, which is more than can be said for her cousin, Lord Westin. He's horrible. Someone you can really hate as the book goes on. Good times!
Something to remember as you read: This is a historical, but it's not from a real time or even a real place. Ms. Rossano has created her own world, with touches of old England. Some of the phrasing seemed a bit contemporary, but all in all it fits her world. There were a few new words that I had to look up. For example "Kurios." In her lexicon, this is the word for God. And it works, here.
I liked how these two people came together, slowly. I liked how after riding for an entire day, Brielle was sore, and tired, and her knees were weak. Her tummy also growled! I liked that. They were "real." They didn't fall immediately into love. It was something they had to work at.
Tomas is a strong, caring man of few words. There was a scene with his mother where she mentions that he "forgets" to give all the information. This was true!
This was a rousing adventure, with swords and battles...and fade to black loving. It was also inspirational. Brielle prayed for help. I liked that, too.
In fact, I enjoyed this so much, that as soon as I was done, I bought "Word and Deed," a short story by the same author. I liked that one, too! And I will be reading through Ms. Rossano's catalog.
Adventure, Characters with Integrity, Love.
This was a FIVE BOOKMARK read for me.
This review may also be found at:
Beyond the Squee: Book Reviews
www.beyondthesquee.com
December 29, 2014
I wasn't sure if I would like this book because while it's billed as a medieval historical romance, it also has elements of fantasy in it, and well, the fantasy genre isn't really my thing. But man, this story sucked me in from the first page, and there's not that much fantasy in it at all, beyond a religious belief system and different names for people and places. (Which I chalked up to the medieval time period, actually.) I really enjoyed this book and read it every chance I got.
We are first introduced to our heroine, Brielle, when she is chosen from a crowd of invaders who are taking over the village and choosing new wives. This could be a horrifying scene, (and sort of is, but it isn't, you just have to read it!) but the commander in charge, the Earl of Irvaine, is pretty humane about everything. He's mysterious and brooding, yet definitely honorable. Which is good, since the King has made a deal with Brielle's treacherous cousin and so Brielle is about to become the Earl of Irvaine's new wife. Of course, the new couple is immediately thrust into a world of chaos as the new Earl is trying to claim his newly awarded properties, figure out a relationship with his new wife, and he learns the hard way who he can and cannot trust.
I have to say this book was really great with the romance. It was a nice build between the two of them, with her being more of a warrior to be by her husband's side. The new Earl of Irvaine wasn't born to nobility, but has worked his way up as a warrior for the king and the Earl is really an awesome hero. Our heroine is no shrinking violet, either, and holds her own in a world of men and dangerous situations all around her.
I loved the pacing of the book between the swordfights, political intrigue with the king and robber barons, and of course, the romance. Very well done. There was a couple loose threads with some secondary characters, but I'm assuming there are going to be more books in the series that will tie those up. The ending was definitely satisfying, though, no cliffhangers here. I thought the setting was believable, the characters memorable, and I would definitely like to read more of this series!
We are first introduced to our heroine, Brielle, when she is chosen from a crowd of invaders who are taking over the village and choosing new wives. This could be a horrifying scene, (and sort of is, but it isn't, you just have to read it!) but the commander in charge, the Earl of Irvaine, is pretty humane about everything. He's mysterious and brooding, yet definitely honorable. Which is good, since the King has made a deal with Brielle's treacherous cousin and so Brielle is about to become the Earl of Irvaine's new wife. Of course, the new couple is immediately thrust into a world of chaos as the new Earl is trying to claim his newly awarded properties, figure out a relationship with his new wife, and he learns the hard way who he can and cannot trust.
I have to say this book was really great with the romance. It was a nice build between the two of them, with her being more of a warrior to be by her husband's side. The new Earl of Irvaine wasn't born to nobility, but has worked his way up as a warrior for the king and the Earl is really an awesome hero. Our heroine is no shrinking violet, either, and holds her own in a world of men and dangerous situations all around her.
I loved the pacing of the book between the swordfights, political intrigue with the king and robber barons, and of course, the romance. Very well done. There was a couple loose threads with some secondary characters, but I'm assuming there are going to be more books in the series that will tie those up. The ending was definitely satisfying, though, no cliffhangers here. I thought the setting was believable, the characters memorable, and I would definitely like to read more of this series!
November 15, 2013
By: Rachel Rossano
Published By Createspace
Age Recommended: New Adult - Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Series: Novels of Rhynan #1
Review:
"Duty" by Rachel Rossano was a very good romantic story that was so enjoyable that is a historical, but not real time or place. You will find the characters are likable, well developed, captivating and so very believable giving the reader awesome read that you will find hard to put down until the end. This was rather a fast paced read where you will connect quickly with Brielle and Tomas. I liked this medieval fantasy world of Lady Brielle Solarius who is sold into a arranged marriage to Lord Tomas by her weird and evil cousin Lord Orwin Westin. At this time many widows were forced into marriages to strangers so because Brielle village will starve with Tomas help...so it was a done deal...however even with the marriage and all her village will be attacked. Will she be able to get some help? This novel really moves because there is something that is happening all the time...battles, sieges, conspiracies and even romance. Be ready as you will see from the read that this author brings in 'new words...'Kurios.' Now I will let you look that one up! I also liked how this author brought Brielle and Tomas together because it wasn't love at first site but in the end it was a sweet romance .....and this is where I say you must pick up "Duty" to see how this author will bring it all to the reader.
"Duty" is well written and so full of twist and turns that you will have to keep up or you can get somewhat confused due to the fact that this novel moves fast.
Please know that this isn't a violence free script...for they will be much violence in and around this story and so be ready to see where their is a lots of unfairness and wrongness going on. With all of that being said..."Duty" is a interesting adventure with all the swords, battles, romance, very clean and well written novel by this self published author that I would I recommend as a good read.
Published By Createspace
Age Recommended: New Adult - Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Series: Novels of Rhynan #1
Review:
"Duty" by Rachel Rossano was a very good romantic story that was so enjoyable that is a historical, but not real time or place. You will find the characters are likable, well developed, captivating and so very believable giving the reader awesome read that you will find hard to put down until the end. This was rather a fast paced read where you will connect quickly with Brielle and Tomas. I liked this medieval fantasy world of Lady Brielle Solarius who is sold into a arranged marriage to Lord Tomas by her weird and evil cousin Lord Orwin Westin. At this time many widows were forced into marriages to strangers so because Brielle village will starve with Tomas help...so it was a done deal...however even with the marriage and all her village will be attacked. Will she be able to get some help? This novel really moves because there is something that is happening all the time...battles, sieges, conspiracies and even romance. Be ready as you will see from the read that this author brings in 'new words...'Kurios.' Now I will let you look that one up! I also liked how this author brought Brielle and Tomas together because it wasn't love at first site but in the end it was a sweet romance .....and this is where I say you must pick up "Duty" to see how this author will bring it all to the reader.
"Duty" is well written and so full of twist and turns that you will have to keep up or you can get somewhat confused due to the fact that this novel moves fast.
Please know that this isn't a violence free script...for they will be much violence in and around this story and so be ready to see where their is a lots of unfairness and wrongness going on. With all of that being said..."Duty" is a interesting adventure with all the swords, battles, romance, very clean and well written novel by this self published author that I would I recommend as a good read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews