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Knight of Enlightenment (Knight Series, Book 1): A passionate love story

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A Passionate Romance Some spice, some mystery, and lots of love. A wonderful alpha hero, with some grump and some sunshine, and most importantly, intense desire.

Hannah Mills is like many women. Independent, strong, and determined. She is not looking for love. Quite the opposite. Hannah immerses herself in work, simultaneously shielding her mind from memories of love lost. Abandonment having forced Hannah to protect herself from future heartbreak. To create a façade of strength in romance. But Hannah’s scorned heart belies her hopeful soul.

Knight of Enlightenment is the beginning of her journey back to love. Love of many romance, belonging, and herself.

With an unexpected introduction to a spicy, formidable man, Hannah experiences a powerful, internal force of passion and desire. A connection so strong that Hannah may finally relinquish all doubt and insecurity, and experience a searing love she never thought possible.

But what must she ignore to have him? His past? Her past? Will she fight against the restraints of her scars? Will she accept his?

Hannah is learning the truth about what she wants, and has to decide if she is willing to fight for it. Fight for a love so fierce; fight against a past so unforgiving.

321 pages

Published July 23, 2025

33 people want to read

About the author

JC Montgomery

2 books20 followers
Romance author and secret day dreamer conjuring up stories in her mind for decades. JC Montgomery resides in the hills of Northern California, where she is surrounded by love from her three children and cherished husband.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Jill.
59 reviews11 followers
January 12, 2026
Knight of Enlightenment is a deeply emotional and introspective romance that focuses as much on inner growth as it does on the love story itself. The writing is highly descriptive and reflective, with a strong emphasis on feelings, longing, and internal conflict.

At times, the rich, flowery language made it a bit harder for me to stay fully immersed in the story, as the prose leans heavily into emotional detail. That said, this style will resonate strongly with readers who enjoy lush descriptions and spending time inside a character’s thoughts.

This book reads best as part of the duology alongside Knight of Sunshine, as the two together form one continuous emotional arc rather than a standalone story. I appreciated how much time is spent exploring emotional walls, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to let someone truly see you.

Overall, this is a thoughtful, emotionally driven romance that will appeal most to readers who enjoy introspective storytelling, poetic language, and a slow-building love story centered on growth and connection.
Profile Image for Alyssa Kunz.
204 reviews3 followers
April 20, 2026
Knight of Enlightenment is a cowboy romantic suspense filled with a good slow burn and spice. Hannah is a strong independent woman that owns her own business, her heart is closed off due to an ex and her father abandoning her when she was little. And then we get the strong alpha cowboy into the mix, Clayton is a mystery himself he’s very protective and he shows Hannah that he only has eyes for her and as you are reading you can tell how obsessed this man is with Hannah, and he’s willing to do anything and everything for her. He also becomes a little bit of a stalker and helps out Hannah in bad situations. So definitely not a bad thing having a stalker.. right!!!

Hannah’s and Clayton’s connection is very passionate. I can definitely see how their love for one another is gonna be healing along with many bumps in the road. You see a little bit of their obstacles get in the way in book one, so I’m very curious to see how book two will turn out for Hannah and Clayton. Also WHAT AN ENDING good thing I’m diving right into book two.

Favorite quotes:

“You are stunning. I could stare at you all day, every day, for the rest of my life.”

“It’s you Hannah. You make me smile.”
“Oh you’re good. Really good.”
“I’m serious, Hannah. I can’t explain it. You make things…brighter. Your smile makes my world brighter. I can’t explain it either. It just is.”

“It’s just funny seeing you, all rugged, in here, at a bridal show.”
“Rugged, huh?”
“Very. And manly, a little scrumptious, and for sure gladiator like.”

“Oh please, you are insatiable.”
“With you, absolutely.”
Profile Image for Marie.
921 reviews19 followers
January 3, 2026
This is a new author to me and I was surprised with this book. I wasn't ready for the surprise ending, but I'm about to start reading the next book. so not really to bad. Hannah is a strong independent woman but is also very closed off. Running a flower shop which is her favourite time she loves the shop. Until a mysterious cowboy walks in and suddenly she knows there's just something she doesn't like. Since her breakup with her ex she's careful maybe too careful. Blake was the one who she found after her breakup, but Clayton throws a curve ball. Clayton is protective maybe a little over protective, plus he's definitely got the Alpha gene running through him. There's just something off about Blake, yet Clayton is very stalkerish. The ending really does capture the whole feel of the story. I'm so looking forward to starting the next book.
1 review1 follower
August 4, 2025
Enjoyed this story by a new author to me. JC Montgomery has a prolific vocabulary used to define detail for her readers. Thought I had the plot figured out but the twist at the end leaves me hungry for book two!
Profile Image for Kristina artNerd .
88 reviews
November 17, 2025
This was a very different read bc normally I read first person view books. The spins picked up after 65% and got my really intrigued. The end leaves on a crazy cliff hanger so I’m excited to speed through my next novella so I can find out what happens in book 2!!!
Profile Image for book.chats.with.jacki.
442 reviews16 followers
May 3, 2026
This is such a thrilling romantic suspense, and this first book in The Knight duology absolutely delivers. I went in mostly blind and I really think that’s the best way to experience it.

You’re getting romance, a little spice, steady suspense, a very protective MMC, and so many swoon worthy moments. I was completely pulled in and ended up running downstairs for book two the second I finished.

JC Montgomery does an incredible job building the setting and making everything feel so immersive. You genuinely feel like you know these characters and are right there in the story with them.

Safe to say I’m already counting down until I finish the conclusion.
Profile Image for Nina Der-Heard.
52 reviews
February 12, 2026
This was my first book by JC Montgomery but it will certainly not be my last! This book has long been on my TBR and I’m so happy I finally got a chance to read it! This book is so unique in many ways, and all good ways!

The heroine of the book, Hannah, has unfortunately been duped one too many times by past lovers. Ranging from high school to her fiance who after three years, decided that they didn’t want to be married after all. After taking a two year hiatus from dating, instead throwing herself into work while picking up the pieces of who she is, she thinks she meets someone she can take a chance on. Of course, the universe has other plans, and continues to throw her for a ride.

It’s then that the world finally slows a bit, and she comes face to face with Clayton. A broad-shouldered, self-assured, and straight-forward cowboy who only has eyes for Hannah, and lets her know often. Maybe, just maybe, the world is finally throwing Hannah a bone and allowing her to finally have what she so desperately deserves.

Author JC Montgomery has an incredible way of writing in such a frank manner that isn’t off-putting but rather thorough, descriptive, and vulnerable. Especially when it comes to both of her main characters. Hannah, having been hurt many times over, allows us as the readers to feel her hurt yet at the same time, feel hopefulness and that’s done with thoughtfulness and intention on part of this author. And as for Clayton, it allows us to be caught up in the heat that he feels for Hannah and that he makes no qualms about it, that we don’t have to question it or play the does-he-or-doesn’t he game for more chapters than necessary and that is something I’m always looking for in the books that I read.

This book really is a journey about many of the things in life that we’ve all suffered through. Love. Loss. Fear. Uncertainty. Change. Hope. And with the attentiveness of its author, this book gives us readers a reason to understand why sometimes, certain things fall apart so better things can come together.

Trigger Warning: Please be aware that there is a sexual assault in this book so please take care of yourself.
Profile Image for Weena Bernabel.
Author 5 books35 followers
April 1, 2026
Where do I fucking start with this book. 🥹🥹🤭🤭

This is one of those stories that sneaks up on you—quiet at first, and then suddenly you’re drowning in it. Boy was I drowning!! 🥴🫠

This book feels like you’re walking through the mind and the soul of Hannah and Clayton. It’s layered, introspective, and honestly? It made me sit with myself in ways I didn’t expect. The writing has this philosophical edge, but it’s not cold—it’s emotional, almost haunting in places. The kind of haunting I fucking love. The kind that makes you daydream and rewind the entire book in your head.

There’s this constant push and pull between light and darkness—between who we are and who we’re trying to become—and that tension? It hit me hard. You can feel the weight of purpose, identity, and transformation in every chapter.

“Enlightenment is not a destination—it’s a war within.”
“You don’t find truth in the light alone, but in what survives the dark.”
“To become more, you must first face what you are.”

Like… tell me why that feels personal???

The characters aren’t just characters—they feel like reflections. Pieces of you. Pieces you don’t always want to face. And I think that’s what makes this book powerful. It doesn’t just tell a story—it challenges you.

And the fucking vibe? My favorite, it’s almost spiritual, but still grounded in raw human emotion. It’s not a fast, fluffy read. This is the kind of book you experience. You sit with it. You let it mess with your thoughts a little.

For me, it felt like standing on that thin line between clarity and chaos… and realizing maybe both are necessary.

If you love stories that explore the soul, identity, purpose, and that quiet war inside all of us—this one is going to hit you so damn hard.

And yeah… I’m still thinking about it. ❤️🌸
29 reviews
January 23, 2026
First, I want to start off by saying I was crying three pages into the Epilogue... I was not prepared. (I relate with abandonment issues)

Following the FMC, Hannah, I empathize with her. Constantly feeling the effects of abandonment; not feeling like you’re enough, and already guarded with the thoughts of “when they are going to leave…”. I truly understand this character, but I love seeing her be a boss business babe. I just want her to thrive romantically and heal internally. And also want her to stay away from the horrible men she’s already crossed paths with 🤍


HATED Everyman that isn’t Clayton for her.
Nicholas; I’m so sad that Hannah “wasted” so much time over this child. I’m glad she focused on herself and made her dreams come true. 💕
Blake is a disgusting, weak, sorry excuse for a human being and I just knew there was something off from the start.

Leaves us with Clayton….
Give me this huge, muscular, protective and guarded cowboy every single time please. I know he is going to open up…I just know it (I mean I’ll be sad if he doesn’t). But Clayton has my heart.

Where did the ending come from… how did we get here. JC how did you leave us hanging like that.

1) Dad
2) Hannah Hannah Hannah, why did you go with him?!?!?
3) This sorry excuse of a man deserves the worst thing to ever happen to someone on an hourly basis
4) Please tell me Clayton saves Hannah.

Now I need to read the second book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sammie's Swoony Reads.
151 reviews1 follower
October 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Okay, let me start by saying I hate cliffhangers—but it’s okay this time because I can dive right into book 2 😂

Where do I even begin with this one?! First, we have Hannah, our amazing FMC who’s closed off to love and runs a flower shop. Enter Blake, the first guy she decides to take a chance on after her broken engagement. And then there’s Clayton—the mysterious cowboy who walks into her shop and instantly gets under her skin (and mine!).

My gut told me something was off with Blake, and I was so right—but I was not prepared for all the curveballs this story threw at me! Clayton is the perfect mix of alpha, overprotective, and a little bit stalkerish (in the good, book-boyfriend way 😉). It’s hard not to fall for him.

The last few chapters completely blindsided me. Just when I thought I had things figured out, everything exploded in the most shocking way. The ending is wild—definite TW for rape—but it sets up book 2 so perfectly that I have to keep reading.

If you love a slow-burn romance, a love-scorned FMC, and an alpha cowboy with secrets, Knight of Enlightenment needs to be on your TBR immediately!

Thank you JC Montgomery for sending me a copy of this book!
Profile Image for Ashley  Johnson.
30 reviews1 follower
July 29, 2025
Knight of Enlightenment is an emotionally charged and beautifully written story that drew me in from the very first page. Hannah Mills is a deeply relatable protagonist strong on the outside but quietly wounded inside. Her struggle to shield herself from vulnerability while craving genuine connection felt incredibly real.

JC Montgomery does a brilliant job exploring themes of love, loss, and self rediscovery. The romance is passionate without being cliché, and the chemistry between Hannah and her mysterious, magnetic love interest crackles with intensity. But what makes this story stand out is its emotional depth. It’s not just about finding love with another person it’s about learning to love and accept yourself, scars and all.

The writing is honest and raw, and the pacing keeps you hooked. As Hannah wrestles with her past and navigates her fears, you can't help but root for her. This book left me thinking long after I turned the last page.

Highly recommend for anyone who enjoys romance with substance, soul, and a strong female lead on a journey toward healing.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
85 reviews
March 22, 2026
Hannah seems to not have the best luck with men. She’s decided she is better off focusing on herself and her flower shop. On a night out with the girls she meets a gorgeous man and they hit it off right away. Shortly after, a man walks into her flower shop that she’s never seen before but she feels an instant pull to him. Now with two men in her line of sight when she wasn’t looking for anyone, who will she choose, one of these alluring men or herself? This story was a roller coaster for me. I pretty much go into books blind so I didn’t really know what this one was about. There was so much growth for the FMC, Hannah, dealing with childhood trauma and learning who she is and her worth. The book had me crying in the first chapter but later had me swooning. Not to mention the mystery around who was really who and what their intentions were. This read like a romantic suspense and had me turning the pages as fast as I could to know how everything would play out. And man did it end with me needing to dive immediately into book 2!
Profile Image for J.C. Ward.
Author 4 books27 followers
January 17, 2026
Knight of Enlightenment is a journey of rediscovery, healing, and unexpected passion. As the story unfolded, I felt as though I was watching Hannah Mills’s life play out. Hannah is independent, strong, and determined. She pours herself into work, building a façade of being self-sufficient that protects her.

This book tells about the beginning of Hannah’s return to love, but also the love of belonging, connection, and self-acceptance. Her world is shaken by a man whose connection is powerful. As the story unfolds, Hannah’s emotional struggle is authentic. Her journey is not simply about falling in love. It’s about confronting pain, doubt, and courage.

Knight of Enlightenment is well written. Readers are left eager to see whether she'll embrace the love she never thought possible.
Profile Image for Becca.
81 reviews4 followers
October 9, 2025
The FMC, Hannah owns a flower shop and after some bad dates, she meets her knight. Clayton Knight walks in off the street into Hannah's flower shop and there is an instant attraction. 

This was a book full of emotion, trauma and spice. I enjoyed how relatable Hannah was with the childhood trauma and relationship struggles. Clayton is a mysterious cowboy that I hope in book two I learn more about his history. The book ends on a massive cliffhanger, leaving you heartbroken and rooting for Hannah and Clayton. I enjoyed reading the book and the cowboy/urban mix to the romance. Looking forward to continuing the story in Knight of Sunshine. 
Profile Image for Charlotte.
97 reviews16 followers
August 7, 2025
A fiery romance with real emotional depth
I absolutely devoured this book! Hannah is such a relatable heroine strong on the outside but carrying a quiet vulnerability that makes her journey so powerful. The chemistry between her and the alpha male lead is off the charts, but what really stuck with me was how raw and honest their emotional connection felt. It’s spicy, yes, but it’s also about healing, trust, and learning to love again after heartbreak. Can’t wait to see where her journey takes her next.

Profile Image for Shannon Clagg.
38 reviews10 followers
August 11, 2025
Knight of Enlightenment snuck up on me in the best way. Hannah Mills has built emotional walls after heartbreak, but meeting one determined, magnetic man changes everything. JC Montgomery’s debut blends spice with tenderness, exploring love, healing, and the terrifying risk of being known. The writing is lush and a little extra (and I mean that as a compliment), the emotional payoff is satisfying, and the romance hits in both the heart and the gut. A strong start to the Knight Series, and I’ll be back for book two!
2 reviews
September 2, 2025
I loved this book from beginning to unexpected end. The author's descriptions of characters is so well done and the relationships between them - friends, family, lovers - is so relatable. This author is able to paint a picture in the reader's mind with descriptive and intriguing language. The main character, Hannah, is brilliant. She's so lovable on her own and I love her taste in men. I finished this book and immediately bought book two - I needed to know what happened! So well done!
Profile Image for Tara.
36 reviews3 followers
December 13, 2025
A word of warning....when you buy book 1, pop book 2 in your basket as well.

Hannah's story is one with many twists & turns. Just when you think you're a few steps ahead, you really aren't!

The further in you go, the harder it is to put down & the more it grips you. Heart squeezing, breath catching, stomach tightening suspense. When this book ends you'll definitely need to have the second one close by.
Profile Image for Lanthe Blackwell.
18 reviews3 followers
January 31, 2026
Knight of Enlightenment is an emotionally driven romance that blends passion with vulnerability. Hannah is a strong, relatable heroine whose journey through grief, self-protection, and rediscovery feels authentic and engaging. The chemistry is intense, the romance layered with both warmth and tension, and the themes of healing and self-worth are handled with care. A compelling start to a love story rooted in desire, emotional growth, and the courage to choose happiness.
Profile Image for Émilie SoonjiBooks.
45 reviews
April 27, 2026
This book was an emotional roller coaster. love Hannah so much she is very relatable and what
can i say about Clayton... That man made me giddy and giggling from the beginning. The story is amazing just couldn't stop reading. I enjoyed the cozy atmosphere and the pace of the story It is really well written and the end leave you wanting more, If you love a good romance involving a mysterious cowboy with spice,i would definitely recommend reading this book.
4 reviews
August 5, 2025
This book captured me in the Prologue.
Once I started to read it was hard to put down. The characters described with so much life and detail, I immediately fell into their world. So much so that even when not reading they stayed in my thoughts.
I could not wait to pick up my book and continue reading this sexy and loving romance with a twist.
Looking forward to getting my hands on Book#2 Kinight of Sunshine!





Profile Image for Christina King.
Author 1 book36 followers
March 3, 2026
A beautifully written debut by JC Montgomery. A perfect reflection of modern women; strong, self-sufficient, and still open to a love that feels epic. And if that love arrives in a cowboy hat? Even better. The story leaves on a cliff-hanger, but good news! The second book is out now, and I can't wait to see how Hannah and Calyton's story ends. Highly recommend!!
Profile Image for Liv Lowry.
Author 1 book55 followers
April 23, 2026
I enjoyed this book so much. It was beautifully written and I loved the main characters. I really related to Hannah in a lot of ways and the MMC was SO dreamy. Their chemistry was off the charts. And the ending had me on the edge of my seat!!! The ending was also really well written and had me feeling like I was really there. I would highly recommend this book to anyone. A new favorite of mine!
Profile Image for Lexi  Chapman.
10 reviews
August 9, 2025
Thoroughly enjoyed this Indie author romance! JC Montgomery’s writing holds a tremendous amount of detail and the storyline was relatable. I found myself extremely attached to the characters and completely shocked by the ending. I can’t wait for a book 2!
Profile Image for Lisa.
345 reviews6 followers
September 19, 2025
I binged "Knight of Enlightenment" in 2 days because I didn't want to leave this addictive storyline. I found Drama, Mystery, Suspense, Humor, Romance, and Steam all wrapped together around strong, loveable characters. This is just a beautiful book!
1 review
October 2, 2025
I was easily transported by this story that was so well laid out by JC Montgomery. Never lacking in detail along with the relevance in the person Hannah is makes this a must read. So well done!
Profile Image for MandyReads1.
161 reviews12 followers
March 5, 2026
JC Montgomery is one of the sweetest indie authors I have gotten to know recently on IG. She is so supportive and kind, so when she offered to send me the ebook of her first novel, Knight of Enlightenment, I jumped at the chance. This book is one for the lovers of slow burn romance stories with mystery, spice, and strong characters. I loved the FMC Hannah and rooted for her as she re-entered the dating world, ran her successful business, and stood up to a-hole men. The MMC Clayton was super sexy, but I’m still cautious about what he’s hiding. Dang though- I did not see that cliffhanger at the end! My jaw was on the floor. Looks like I will be reading book 2 soon! Thanks to the author for sharing her beautiful words and characters with the book community! Your writing is a gift!



I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Jennifer Carey.
558 reviews22 followers
December 7, 2025
JC's writing was emotional and so detailed I could picture every scene written. The characters had so much depth to them and I could feel everything they felt. And that ending!! Immediately picked up book two because I NEED to know what happens!

Hannah has written off love because of her past, that is until a rugged cowboy walks into her flower shop! From the start Clayton intrigued me! He is quiet and reserved and has secrets but Hannah is something special and little by little he opens up to her. But the secret she didn't see coming has her pulling away from him and she ends up in a bad situation.

Hannah and Clayton's romance is passionate and they have a deep connection that scares Hannah. Clayton makes her feel safe and wanted and she has never felt that before. I was living for Clayton's alpha personality! I still have so many questions about him but I know we will get the answers in book two! The twist in the end had my heart pounding and I can't wait to see Clayton and Hannah get their much deserved HEA!

-Alpha Cowboy
-Flower Shop Owner FMC
-Love Scorned FMC
-Secrets

Thank you JC Montgomery for this gifted copy!
Profile Image for Andrea.
63 reviews10 followers
December 2, 2025
I was consumed! I felt like I was watching a movie while reading the book. After a devastating break the last thing Hannah Mills wants is another relationship especially when her heart still feels bruised and raw. This story is a gripping slow burn setup with betrayal, misjudged trust, and the quiet spark of something/someone waiting in the background.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews