Honor

Rhynan #2

by Rachel Rossano

The Earl of Dentin excels in his position as Securer of the Realm. But the king’s order to pluck an orphaned child from a loving home unsettles Dentin. When a dark-eyed woman challenges his honor regarding the mission, Dentin finds himself unable to justify his actions or get her out of his mind. Something about her lack of fear intrigues him.

Lady Elsa Reeve attempts to avoid the marriage of convenience her brother and mother demand of her. She understands the need to pay off her brother's massive debt. She only wants her family to consider her wishes in the process.

As Elsa becomes further entangled in a snare of her brother’s creating, only one man defends her. But can she trust Dentin, her unlikely champion, and his motives? With a murderer on the loose, Elsa’s fate in jeopardy, and a traitor plotting against the king, Dentin finds his priorities shifting in an unexpected direction.

Genres: Romance, Medieval, Fantasy, Christian, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Historical Romance

414 pages, Paperback

First published February 23, 2015

About the author

Rachel 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.

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

2023L I honestly don't remember reading this book, which is odd for me. I usually only forget books that were just dumb. However, it was fun to read this story as if it was the first time once again. Rachel has such and amazing way with words. I can't wait to read the last installment.

2015 review
Age Appropriate For: 13 and up for romance
Best for Ages: 15 and up for romance

Since I really enjoyed Duty, I jumped at the chance to review Honor. After all, I love how Rachel writes her romances. Yes, maybe there is a little more pre-marital kissing than I would choose to have in my life, but they are clean and sweet stories with characters that you can really cheer for.

This book kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time, as Elsa and Dentin deal with foes that come in many forms. I really hated every time I had to put down the book and work on a different task for any amount of time. It is one of those books that keeps you flipping pages to find out what is going to happen next.

Elsa was a sweet girl who is trying to save her family from the ruin her brother’s gambling has brought. She was such a well-developed character that felt very real. Her sweetness was what really stood out to me. So many female leads are I-can-do-it-myself type girls, and, while I don’t have a problem with that, it gets old. While Elsa did a lot, she allowed others to help her.

Dentin was pretty awesome himself. He was a man of honor (the title really does tell you a lot), who is a bit rough around the edges. No, he isn’t mean, he just isn’t sociable, but he finds himself drawn to helping Elsa and loses his heart in the process. I really liked what Rossano did with his character.

I cannot say enough about this story. It was just such a joy to read. It had an historical feel to it, even though it was really non-magical fantasy. It also had a faith element that wasn’t strong, but added a nice touch.

I highly recommend this to those who like romance, good writing, and books that keep you turning pages.

I received this book from 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.

[Abigail Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

After wanting to read this series for a while I was thrilled to get each of the books from the author to review.
I was not disappointed, in fact I found they were even better than I expected, and I had let myself have high expectations. That can happen if you wait and wait to get around to reading a book series, don't you think?
After reading Duty I was happy to find out more about one of the characters who had me intrigued in the first book, Lord Dentin, I wanted to know more about the man who was a character that though he wasn't a main character he left just as much impact on me as Tomas and Brielle, his background is so painful and yet he came out with faith, strength, and I now have a new favorite fictional couple.

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.

[TJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5.0

Absolutely lovely, clean, medieval romance!

[Kayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a sequel to 'Duty,' I had high hopes for this story.

Following Lord Dentin, Securer of the Realm, this story takes you on an intriguing ride filled with unexpected turns and heart-thumping suspense. Charged with taking the son of his best friend to fulfill the wishes of the king, Lord Dentin happens upon the first woman he has ever met who isn't afraid to speak her mind, despite his rank and power. However, when this woman is faced with an arranged marriage that threatens her health and happiness, Lord Dentin cannot sit by and watch it happen.

With murder, treason, a trial by battle, an overbearing brother, and a troublesome king, 'Honor' is packed with adventure, hard decisions, and vivid characters.

Though there were lots of characters, I did not find it necessary to look at the character chart even once. Rachel did very well giving each character a distinct personality, which aided in keeping them all straight in my mind.

As a sequel to 'Duty,' it hit its mark – it was everything I had hoped Lord Dentin's story would be. However, it is also a great stand alone story, if you have yet to read 'Duty.'

With a storyline that is thrilling but not exhausting, description that is precise but not over-done, added to a captivating plot that wraps up with a great ending which didn't feel fake or forced, this book has it all. This was a great novel! I highly recommend it to lovers of the action/romance genre.

[Alicia Willis · Rating 4 out of 5]

13+ for mild to moderate violence.
15+ for pre-marital kissing and some adult themes.

When Rachel Rossano asked me to beta read her newest title, Honor, I was very pleased to do so. I had heard some great things about her books before and was very happy to peruse one of them myself.

Honor is a fantasy title centered around an authentic-feeling medieval country. While the story is not historical, many aspects of it closely follow true medieval traditions and modes of life. Since my usual genre is historical-fiction, I was pleased to find that (minus detailed descriptions) the story bordered more on historical-fiction than fantasy.

I have to say I really enjoyed the plot. The suspense kept me turning pages, but was not overly intense. I loved the protagonists and the antagonists really riled me! Elsa's predicaments and struggles at the hands of her craven brother; Dentin's struggles with finding himself in love and caught between his conscience and duty to a honor-less king; the overall picture of two people finding each other in the midst of their trials and a nation's conflict - everything tied together to create an enjoyable tale. Parts of it reminded me of El Cid and one man's commitment to honor. Without giving too much away, allow me to say that the story contains all of the trimmings of a good tale - romance, adventure, battles, danger, and just enough of the twists and turns of human emotion to cause one to really relate to the characters.

The one thing I was slightly uncomfortable with was the pre-marital kissing. Yes, they were betrothed, but, as this was not a real medieval tale where betrothal was basically marriage, I felt it went a bit far. However, Rossano's discretion with all other aspects of the marital relationship made up for it.

The vast amount of characters might confuse some readers, but this is easily remedied by referring back to the character list. Personally, I really liked many of the secondary characters, especially squire Reginald. I'd be very happy if the next title in this series was about him!

I enjoyed the story and am happy to finally find a fantasy I can endorse to others! I look forward to Rossano's next title with eager anticipation.

[Alyson L · Rating 5 out of 5]

HONOR is, like DUTY, set in a true to life feeling fantasy country during the Medieval times. Although it is not a historical story in the true sense of the words, the scene is set so that it would be hard to differentiate. The characters are written in an equally eloquent way thus making it very easy to cheer them on. Though there were so many different characters, I really didn't need to consult the character chart even once. Rachel did a splendid job of differentiating the characters and giving them each distinct personality that I had no trouble keeping them straight.

It was a crazy active and busy book and had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Elsa and Dentin were constantly dealing with friends and foes in all forms. There was murder, an odious overbearing brother, treason, a heinous king, and trial by battle plus packed to the gills with vivid characters, really tough decisions, and adventures galore.

This is such a good story that it stands alone just fine, even if you have yet to read DUTY. I highly recommend it to lovers of the action/romance genre.

5 ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
3 🔥🔥🔥

Disclaimer
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Crystal (Books Are Sanity!!!) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Rossano takes her time setting the stage and introducing each character. I especially loved the details and the characters! It was nice to really get to know who Dentin was in this book, to shed some light on the guarded exterior and look into what made the man. My absolute favorite character was Elsa. She was strong, brave, honest and forthright. If you love historical books then you will love Rossano's work. She writes books with substance and depth. I am hopeful for a third book in this engaging series! I received an advanced copy for free, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Rossano does an impeccable job submersing the reader in her world, introducing full-bodied characters, a fantastical plot, and three-dimensional scenery.

Read full review in the 2015 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Kimberly A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say that after reading the first book in this series, Duty, I was on pins and needles waiting for Honor and it did not disappoint.

Plot – Grade A

The premise of this book rests on Dentin’s attempt to balance his personal honor with the orders of the king as well as hunting for murderers and traitors in his position of Securer of the Realm. Dentin is a self-professed man of honor but he is challenged not only by the difficulty of his latest task but also by Lady Elsa Reeve. Elsa has been treated like a pawn by her own family for years but she has a strong and loving spirit too, which steals away any preconceived notion that she’s your typical damsel in distress. Think medieval-esque Darcy and Elizabeth and you have a good glimpse into their contrasting yet complimentary temperaments. The dynamic between these two characters is definitely part of what makes the plot, which ranges from initial intrigue surrounding Dentin’s unpleasant task to a murder to treason, mesh well together. As compelling as each of the elements in the plot are on their own terms, Dentin and Elsa’s personalities and their brewing relationship really glues it together as a whole. A number of familiar faces from Duty show up in this book and there are passing references to events that occurred in that book that are now influencing characters and events in Honor five years later and while reading the first book enriches the experience for this one, Honor is able to stand on its own.

Content – Grade A

This is a clean fantasy. The romance between Dentin and Elsa builds up slowly and sweetly with their attraction becoming clear even though they both spend about half the book reminding themselves that they really shouldn’t be falling in love right now, especially Dentin. There are two or three kisses before they get married and some references to sharing a bed with a husband but it’s all handled very sweetly. I applaud Rossano for her ability to show the initial and growing attraction between the characters in a way that is very compelling without ever straying into crassness. There is also a reference to a girl being rendered unmarriageable by a scoundrel and a man having a mistress but these are also handled with care.

No language is written out. It’s all either cut off before the first syllable or is merely referenced to as “he cursed.” There is violence, including a character who is abusive to women, and there are also people who are wounded or killed. This violence is accomplished without gratuitousness. The violence occurs and characters react but there is nothing shown that shouldn’t be or that should have been toned down further. With the abuse in particular, the aftermath is what is mainly shown with one exception but it is never glorified nor overly gritty and one character warns the character being abused to escape her abuser because she’s seen this happen before and the last time it killed the girl who was married to an abuser.

There is spirituality present with the characters referencing, worshipping, and praying to the Kurios and asking for His guidance. There is also a reference to one character not being afraid of death because he long ago learned to turn to the Kurios for his security after death.

Technical – Grade A

This was a very well-written and compelling read. There were maybe four whole typos/slips in the entire story. One was a missing punctuation and there was a missing article that didn’t affect the reading of the sentence. There were two true typos. Most readers might not notice these unless they’re looking for them. There was maybe one slightly anachronistic phrase but I can’t make up my mind on it and it wasn’t egregious.

Final Grade – A or Five Stars

Overall this was an excellent medieval-esque fantasy that demonstrates how to combine romantic and political intrigue without them competing with each other or straying into boredom or disbelief. The plot is compelling and along with the characters kept me drawn in. The end of the book leaves one with all sorts of questions about what will happen next and I eagerly await the next novel of Rhynan. I would recommend this book to those looking for a clean Christian fantasy and those who enjoy fantasies set in a medieval-esque world. Recommended for ages 15 and up.

[Kendra Ardnek · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading and reviewing Duty, the first novel of Rhynan, I was eager to learn what happened next, and was thrilled when the author offered me a review copy. It did take me a while to actually get to read the story, but that was not for lack of eagerness. I just had a VERY busy last two weeks.

Once I opened up the book and immersed myself, I couldn't put it down ... except that I had to go to bed. First thing the next morning, I was reading again, and was finished by noon. The plot twisted here and there, and while I'll admit that I could see where it was going by the time I was halfway through the book, things were just so convoluted, I still couldn't put it down!

Dentin, the hero, is not a young man, nor does he have many friends. As the Securer of the Realm, he holds many secrets, and has gained more than his share of enemies as he performs the king's bidding. And, as the book opens, he fears making an enemy out of one of the few friends he has, as the king desires to take custody of the child Sir Irvaine and his wife have been fostering, and thus gain a level of control over him.

Elsa, the heroine, is caught in a situation typical of medieval heroines. Though her father has promised her choice in her marriage, her brother wants to marry her off to pay his "debts of honor," and her mother is pressuring her to marry soon - after all, her younger sister has just been married, why hasn't she?

Normally, their paths wouldn't cross, nor would he take especial notice of her ... but she has taken interest in the young boy he must pluck from his foster parents and - though she doesn't know it - has become entangled in a plot involving the princess herself. Although he's just trying to keep her safe, he finds himself caring for her - as he has never cared for a woman before.

When her father's murdered, the game changes completely. Her previous marriage choices disappear as her brother promises her to one of the most despicable men in the kingdom, thus dooming her to a life of misery.

Compared to the previous book, this story had the better plot. As much as I loved Duty, there were a few moments I lost track of what was going on. With Honor, I was frustrated by the multitude of secrets, but I always had a firm grasp of what was going on. Part of this was the fact that we had narration from both the hero and the heroine. I would have preferred it if the author hadn't used first person for both of them, but it was well marked, and there were only a few times where I lost track of who "I" was.

I will say that I preferred the romance of the first book, however. Elsa and Dentin were sweet, but I think it went a bit too fast, especially for two people who didn't fall in love easily. Also, Dentin called himself "unmarriagable" because of something in his past, but I don't think we ever learned exactly what it was. I would have liked a bit more closure in that area.

Worldbuilding was well-done. It's set in a fictional medieval set of countries that, apart from the fact that didn't actually exist, could well be our own world. We see more into the politics and power-play in this book, and I enjoyed seeing how she built the laws of her country.

I loved the story, just as I have loved everything else of Rossano's work that I have read. I'm thoroughly looking forward to the next book!

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Honor, Elsa is the daughter of a noble who is deeply in debt because of her brother’s foolish bets. She refuses to play into her brother’s plans by helping him out of his debt, but his debt might take her family down regardless. Dentin, however, is the second in command to the king. But this king has asked him to do things that are against Dentin’s moral standards and that make many people hate him. Will Elsa and Dentin find a way to marry? And will Dentin and Elsa choose to honor the king or to honor God?

Honor by Rachel Rossano, is a lovely story combining action and politics with romance. It was a refreshing change from those books I have read of Rachel’s whose romances are focused on arranged marriages in which the characters fall in love after the wedding. This one breaks away from that theme somewhat in bringing the characters together through love first, before bringing in the necessary marriage.

The characters were deep and had their struggles. Lady Elsa was rebelling against society’s stereotype in which women have value only through marriage. Her brother was horrible and tried to use her as a tool instead of a human. Elsa stood up for herself and for others as much as she could. I admired her kindness and determination.

Dentin was strong and fought for honor and obedience to his king. But he had to choose whether to follow a corrupt king or do what he knew was right. I admire his growing integrity.

The story was as much a story of history and politics as it was of romance. The action and turmoil it brought about added to the story and raised the risks for the characters. The author portrayed the country’s problems, even those stemming from the previous war, very well.

I also enjoyed the involvement of the main characters of book one, Duty. Tomas and Brielle were a delightful couple whose influences on Elsa and Dentin was beneficial. In addition, a portion of the turmoil of the story revolved around their family.

Honor is a sweet romance and an intriguing story I might read again.

I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Alicia Ruggieri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a delightful novel in so many ways!

In Honor, Rossano creates a Medieval-style culture set in the author-created country of Rhynan. Rhynan seems like a place that could truly exist, with its own history and sister-countries, political intrigues that have gone on before and will continue after this story, and more. The feeling invoked is that of historical fiction but without the "pressure" or heaviness that hard-core historical fiction sometimes produces - the overwhelming of the story by too much history! {And this is a hard-core historical fiction author talking... Hopefully, my comrades don't take me out to the firing squad! ;-)}

And the story? I enjoyed it tremendously. Straight-out romantic fiction is not usually my go-to for reading, but I really loved the beautiful balance Rossano struck between the interior story of the hero (Dentin) and the heroine (Elsa) falling in love, albeit against their wills, and the exterior story of murderous political intrigue. I feared for them, I rejoiced with them... and stayed up past my bedtime to see whether they would get out of the snares set for them. :-)

As I mentioned, there's quite a lot of "romance" in this story, so be prepared for smooching and such. :-) However, Honor keeps it all honorable... There's no condoned lustful behavior, any allusion - and it is allusion only (nothing beyond kissing is described) - to intimacy beyond kissing occurs after marriage, etc..

Also, something wonderful to see was the concentration on virtue and admiration toward a person for that rather than merely for external qualities. The title word, "honor," is key to understanding and appreciating the trusting relationship that develops between the main characters - and to understanding the demise of the antagonists. Honor is something so desperately needed both in the imaginary Rhynan and our world today, don't you think? That and other more minor themes are timely and thought-provoking.

(I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the author for review purposes, and I was in no way obligated to provide a positive review. I was not compensated in any way for the thoughts which I have expressed.)

[Brandy Mulder · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It is rated YA and really sticks to it. Yes, there is passion and the attraction between the hero and heroine is very much there, but the adult details are left to the imagination which is very refreshing. To me it was like oh my, he’s going to kiss her! Darn it they closed the curtain! I found that it did not detract from the story at all and actually left more room for the plot to hold me captivated. There are many layers to Elsa and Simon’s story and I find myself wondering about the full story of Simon’s past. I have not read the first book so this was my introduction to Rhynan and its people. I loved the way the author gave details about the characters’ pasts without making them big long paragraphs that interrupted the story. It was quick little tidbits that let you know what was influencing their thinking. It made the story flow nicely for me since I was new to the series. I also enjoyed the way the book went back and forth between the hero and heroines’ perspective on what was happening. While usually this means that the same story is shared twice this time it helped keep things moving and let you know exactly what was going on because of the various things happening in secret with each character. It is very well done. I don’t really have anything big to complain about. There are no major typos or grammar issues to bother the reader and detract from the story. The beginning of the story didn’t hook me right away as I had to wait a little bit to figure out what was going on, but once I caught on to the fact that there was secrets on both sides I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen. It is sad to think that family members would treat each other the way that is shown in some parts of the book but sadly it does happen. These moments are handled well, and with just enough truth to make an impression, but not make them the focus of the story.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honor by Rachel Russano When I read Duty, I enjoyed Denton who was one of the secondary characters so much that I asked the author if he would get would get his own story. I was thrilled to hear that this year he does and it was just as good as the first book; Honor. It is an endearing love story and fully develops throughout the book; not a love at first site. Denton worked for the king although he struggled with some of the king’s decisions. Elsa was a daughter whose family was trying to survive the gambling debts her brother had created. Her family wanted to marry her off. Rachel fashioned several appealing scenes for Denton and Elsa to meet and get to know eat other. You will be drawn into their romance.
Denton and Elsa are both carefully crafted characters with their own flaws that were fascinating to watch as they got to know each other. Elsa was a strong female but she was not so stubborn to be stupid like you see in so many novels today. She knew when she needed help.
In addition to the love story, you have the mystery and breathtaking suspense. Those three days before her wedding had me holding my breath. I would absolutely consider this a clean read and Rachel was able to create a great deal of emotion between Denton and Elsa.

If you've read the first book you will also get to see some of the same characters make appearances in this one. I highly recommend this book.

You can see my full review at More Than a Review dot com where I rate the level of sex, violence, language and drug/alcohol use in books.

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I haven't read Duty, the first book, which is fine, except for one thing. Honor starts out with a characters list and with a kindle, it was a pain to access frequently. I felt like the characters were dumped into my lap and it took awhile to figure out and remember who they all were. I read through the list, but there were so many names and places and none of it meant anything to me.

Once I got my bearings, I found that I did enjoy the story. It shifts back and forth between characters, but I enjoy that. I like getting into more than one head to see what makes them tick. Elsa's brother is trying to force her into marriage to benefit himself. She is strong and brave enough to speak her mind, not only with her family, but with a handsome stranger who is trying to honor a duty to the king--Dentin.

This story takes place in a fictional medieval place, but has all of the elements of that type of story--adventure, romance, intrigue, and suspense. The characters are great. I hated the evil ones and really liked the good ones. I enjoyed it and loved that the story stayed fun and entertaining, yet is clean.

Content: mild romance (kissing); mild-moderate violence, due to the time it takes place in; nothing else of note. Clean!

*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*

[Lucy Buller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first read Rachel Rossano's work last year, when I discovered Duty. I jumped at a chance to read Honor. I was not disappointed! :)
THE GOOD:
1. I loved the complexity of the relationship between Elsa and Dentin. It was raw and real. They had their squabbles, but they overcame it all and dared to love
2. Honor, like Duty, was not just a simple love story. There was murder and intrigue and treason. It showed a different dimension to the realm of the love story, one that it is dangerous and promises adventures. (More examples of this type of story: An Uncertain Choice by Jody Hedlund)
3. THAT VILLAIN. He was epic. And freaky.
4. A lot of shipping went on here. A LOT.
5. This was an onion story.(yes, I just made that up on the spot. But it basically means that the story was multi-layered and beautiful enough to make someone cry.)

THE BAD(not technically bad, but others might think so):
1. There was mild romance(this is technically a romance novel). They kissed a few times.
2. The villain abuses the MC on several occasions. This book is probably 14+.
3. It ended. WARNING: this book ENDS. :)
Five stars to another well-written book! :)

[Laurie Penner · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Earl of Dentin is the “securer of the realm”—a feared and despised position. The king sends him on a mission that will surely increase his notoriety, and could cost him his best friend, but his sense of honor drives him to obey. While attempting to find the best time to accomplish his task, which involves a child, the young woman who watches the children captures his eye. The sister-in-law of Dentin’s nemesis, Sir Rathenridge, Elsa Reeve does not act like any woman Dentin has ever met before, for she neither fears him nor admires him. In fact, she considers him dishonorable, which bothers him. Before long, Dentin and Elsa find themselves thrown together more often than either of them expected, as the king sends Dentin on yet another mission—to find a murderer.

Fascinated with both characters and their predicaments, I couldn’t wait to read every chapter. This is a riveting story of love and mystery. The fictional location is surrounded by the awesome “Kurios,” who guides and guards his followers, taking place in the feel of medieval times.

[C.J. Anaya · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the first book in this series entitled, Duty. This second book, which can be read as a stand alone, was also delightful. Rachel Rossano has a beautiful way with words, descriptions and the fundamental laws of romantic connections. Historical romance is mixed with a hint of fantasy due to the fictitious world the author creates.

Lord Dentin is a misunderstood nobleman as a result of his less than desirable position as the king's right arm man. In charge of securing the safety of the realm it is his unfortunate duty to mete out justice all over the kingdom no matter the danger to his person or the hatred that inevitably follows. Love is obviously a difficult thing to entertain when honor and justice must prevail, which is why Lord Dentin's loss of control when it comes to a certain female makes his character so delightful.

This book promises and delivers intrigue, suspense, damsels in distress, duels, gallant knights and anything else your historically romantic daydreams could ever hope for. This medieval tale holds a little something for everyone.

[Tarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

While this is a book two, it can be read without confusion if you haven't read the first one (Duty) yet. That being said, I would recommend reading the first one first because 1- It's an awesome read. Delightfully unexpected and 2- I think you get to know Dentin better if you read about him in the first one. He isn't a major character, but the author gives you enough to let you know his skills and a little of his background.

I didn't know anything about this series coming into it, and after I finished the first one I greedily sped through this one. I can't tell you which one I liked more, but I can say that I will be re-reading them again in the near near future. I am also going to read other books from this author.

I liked the Medieval genre. Most Medieval books I've read are fantasy, and while I enjoy those, this has a regency flair...if that makes any sense at all. This is a clean romance that I would highly recommend.

*I received an eCopy in exchange for a review.

[Petula · Rating 5 out of 5]

★★★★★
This is very much a medieval romance, but set in a fictional land.
Lord Dentin is Securer of the Realm. That means he works to find wrong doers, and enforce the law. Even if that means going around the wishes of a devious King. He is in the middle of one task when a Baron is murdered. Dentin must find the killer and protect those in danger.
Lady Elsa is attending her sister's wedding. Her mother is playing matchmaker, and her brother is trying to use Elsa to get himself out of debt.
With so many men trying to arrange things to their own advantage, killing any who get in the way, there is a lot of danger about.
Just because he has a killer to find doesn't mean the King is giving him anymore timid to carry out his wishes, and an impatient King is just as dangerous as the killer.
As I love my historical books , this was a joy to read. A clean romance with lots of action and adventure. It is the 2nd in the series, but can easily be read as a stand alone.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book just as I have every one of Ms Rossano's books. Dentin/Simon was everything I would wish for in the perfect hero (although certainly not a perfect man) and I loved that Elsa had strength of character and spirit without being hardened in any way. The story kept me enthralled from start to finish and I am anxious to discover what happens next for the Kingdom of Rhynan. (I also loved catching up on Tomas and Brielle and their family from book one.) It is nearly impossible to find such well-written, absorbing characters as well as an enthralling storyline set in a medieval time period without a lot of unnecessary bedroom scenes. This author gives everything you could want and plenty of earnest emotions without causing a blush. This is a series that I will recommend and which I will surely read again eventually.

[Englishrose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was another wonderful chapter in the imaginary medieval world that Rossano is meticulously weaving. Though to be honest, I'd recommend reading or re-reading the first book again before starting this one, as I felt like I had forgotten some details that took a while to remember about the characters and world. The plot is intricate, but eventually all falls into place and tells a wonderful tale of love and intrigue. Some good surprises and twists kept me reading all night. The characters were relate-able and the romance grew naturally and splendidly. I loved all the characters and am left satisfied with true love being found once again in Rhynan, but anxious for more characters to find their own happily-ever-afters. And perhaps a selfish desire to someday see a crossover between various of Rossano's series storylines. Definitely a good read.

www.cleanromancereviews.com

[Arlene Mullen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elsa is being forced to marry someone who would pay off her brothers debt. Lord Dentin has been tasked by the king to take a charge away to be used for the kings will.
Dentin is not very pleased by the task he is given. Then he meets Elsa who calls his honor into question. Lies, deception and murder make for an interesting time.
I loved Elsa. She is a breath of fresh air in a book full of stodgy people. She wants to help but does not want to be forced into anything. Then you have Dentin who has always done what is asked but now is questioning that. Elsa is getting under his skin and he does not know what to do.
I loved it. I did not like Elsa's mom or brother. I am glad Elsa is her own person.
I Received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Monique · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel delivers on the promise hinted at in the first novel of this series 'Duty'. Rossano continues to create a realisable, medieval-type society, finding its feet, post civil-war, with all the machinations and intrigue that accompany it. Narrating from the alternating points of view of Dent and Elsa, the lead male and female, provides a bit more depth to the series. The style of prose is more fluid, and less reliant on dialogue. It reads easily, and the reader is left knowing the there is more to come in the plots in this war torn kingdom, as the characters of 'Honour' add/align with those of 'Duty'.
If you're a fan of medieval fantasy or romance you should enjoy this.
Looking forward to number three in this series!

[Judy Bullard · Rating 3 out of 5]

Exciting and well written.

[Stephen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like the sorbet between courses. wonderful book

[Angie Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'll say this for Rachel Rossano--she really knows how to keep me guessing! With every new twist and turn of the plot, my mind's always trying to jump to might possibly happen next, and there's always a new twist (or several...dozen) that mixes things up yet again. :)

I really liked the characters in this one. Dentin was one of my favorite side characters in Duty, and getting to see more of what made him tick was excellent! I can't imagine being in his position... *shudders* Elsa was really good, too, and I liked the fact that her preconceived ideas about Dentin started slipping away when she began to get to know him. I loved her interactions with and care for the children, and I both liked and hurt over the fact that she still loved and cared for her family, even after everything certain members had done to her. :'( Lord Rathenridge was another favorite, and I enjoyed getting to see him again in this one, even if he and Dentin still don't get along. Grrr... Also, I was really glad we got to see more of Tomas and Brielle and their family.

The political situation makes these books feel really unique, although I'm not entirely sure why. It's not like I haven't read books that take place under a corrupt, unstable government. Maybe it's the fact that the main characters aren't actively resisting the government, just trying to live at peace under it? Anyway, all the uncertainty and shaky foundations make me really worried for the characters, even when they're doing the right thing. And the way this book ends doesn't really improve the outlook...

The only thing that keeps this book from a higher rating is the number of references to sexual immorality, not by the main characters, but sometimes directly related to important plot pieces. Because of that, I would recommend this book for mature readers only.

Content--various mentions of men keeping mistresses, children conceived out of wedlock, etc.; some veiled references to intimacy (having children, etc.) in a character's thoughts and fears about marriage; a married couple is seen sleeping together (no intimacy); some passionate (but not overly descriptive) kissing, mostly between a married couple; mentions of drinking, drunkenness, and gambling; mentions of murders; a man attempts to force unwanted attention of a woman; a woman is beaten; some violence, including swordplay; mentions of injuries, wounds, and blood (not graphic)

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Family entanglements frame this medieval romance that brings to life just how far the rights of women have come. Elsa is the focus of this book as her brother, mother, and scheming men plot her marriage to move forward their machinations. Lord Dentin returns to the story from book one to investigate murder and to protect Elsa and the orphan the king wants to destroy.

This time, instead of duty, honor is in question, although they actually go hand-in-hand. Elsa challenged her elder sibling, “Brothers protect their sisters, Barack. They defend them. In the short time I was in your care and under your roof, I was beaten, starved, and ridiculed.”

Lord Dentin rises again to model the chivalry expected of knights of the realm as he serves a difficult king as his securer. “This is what I do. I pursue justice…”

This is one medieval romantic mystery that will make you glad you don’t live in those times!

[Claudia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully written, an amazing plot, with great characters, in the second book to this series.
Trully recommend!

After reading "Duty" the first book in the series, which I loved, I decided to read "Honor" and I am pleasantly surprised!
This isn't your common medieval romance, this book will have you on the edge of your seat, it is filled with suspense!

Charged with taking a child out of his best friend's household to fulfill the wishes of the king, Lord Dentin happens upon the first woman he has ever met who isn't afraid to speak her mind, despite his rank and power. However, when this woman is faced with an arranged marriage that threatens her health and happiness, Dentin is incapable of sitting by.

[Heidi aka Busy_Mom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great continuation of the series

I loved the first book of this series (“Duty”) and enjoyed this continuation just as much.
We follow the story of Sir Dentin, Securer of the Realm, and Lady Elsa (Sir Rathenridge’s unmarried sister-in-law) as both face challenges in this medieval setting.
The book is told from both POVs. Many characters of the first book show up in this one as well.
Loved the character building as well as the story line. This book is non-steamy, but does have romance, and some violence.
Can’t wait to read the next one and see how this storyline continues.