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The Heir's Beloved
𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘆 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀, the wrong man has ruled Ravenwood. Now its rightful heir has come home. Spirited across the English border as a child, Liam believes he is a true son of Scotland. But his birthright tells a different story. He is the Duke of Ravenwood, whose father’s steward murdered Liam’s family and stole his inheritance. Liam has returned to England in disguise, vowing to reclaim Ravenwood and avenge his family.
𝗘𝗹𝗹𝗮 𝗶𝘀 𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗱 to rescuing a ragged band of orphaned children. Believing their future is worth more than her own, she agrees to a marriage of convenience with the steward despite his vile reputation. When they wed, the steward’s hold on Ravenwood could become unbreakable. Only when they surrender their futures to God can He mend wounds that neither revenge nor sacrifice can heal.
𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝗹𝗹𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗟𝗶𝗮𝗺 the inheritance he vowed to reclaim? Or will God redeem far more than Ravenwood?
𝗘𝗹𝗹𝗮 𝗶𝘀 𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗱 to rescuing a ragged band of orphaned children. Believing their future is worth more than her own, she agrees to a marriage of convenience with the steward despite his vile reputation. When they wed, the steward’s hold on Ravenwood could become unbreakable. Only when they surrender their futures to God can He mend wounds that neither revenge nor sacrifice can heal.
𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝗹𝗹𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗟𝗶𝗮𝗺 the inheritance he vowed to reclaim? Or will God redeem far more than Ravenwood?
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2026
About the author
Rhonda Dragomir
5 books83 followersRhonda Dragomir is an award-winning novelist and multimedia creative who treasures her fairy tale life in Central Kentucky. She insists her home is her castle, even if her prince refuses to dig a moat. Known for richly researched historical fiction, she weaves romance, faith, and redemption into the lives of unforgettable characters. Her newest novel, "The Heir's Beloved," launches The Ravenwood Chronicles, an Elizabethan historical romance series set along the Anglo-Scottish border.
Barbour Publishing released her award-winning debut novel, "When the Flames Ravaged," in March 2024. Her work has also appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul®, Guideposts, and other anthologies and periodicals. Bible studies she co-authored are used by more than 10,000 women each week worldwide. Rhonda’s writing has earned awards in both fiction and nonfiction, including being named 2019 Writer of the Year by Serious Writer, Inc. She was also a finalist in ACFW's Genesis Contest for historical romance in both 2020 and 2022. Learn more about Rhonda at www.rhondadragomir.com.
Barbour Publishing released her award-winning debut novel, "When the Flames Ravaged," in March 2024. Her work has also appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul®, Guideposts, and other anthologies and periodicals. Bible studies she co-authored are used by more than 10,000 women each week worldwide. Rhonda’s writing has earned awards in both fiction and nonfiction, including being named 2019 Writer of the Year by Serious Writer, Inc. She was also a finalist in ACFW's Genesis Contest for historical romance in both 2020 and 2022. Learn more about Rhonda at www.rhondadragomir.com.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
If Rhonda Dragomir had not included her note to readers and “Word of Care” before the first chapter, I honestly do not know if I could have read this story. Those pages made a big difference. She shares enough about what was coming, why it was there, and how carefully she intended to handle it that I trusted her enough to read and keep reading.
I am so glad I did. What a story!
These characters endured so much. There was bravery everywhere, and there was also dependence on God Almighty in ways that were very real. They needed Him. They needed one another. They kept going through things that could have broken them completely.
The difficult parts were difficult. They never felt careless to me. They showed what these people had survived and what it cost them to keep moving forward. The darkness was never the point. I kept seeing courage, faith, love, and the ways God was working through people who had been wounded deeply.
Their pain mattered, and so did the way God met them in it.
I loved these characters. I cared about what happened to them. I felt the fear, the grief, the relief, the tenderness, and the hope with them. Rhonda Dragomir wrote this so powerfully and so descriptively that I could see Ravenwood and feel the tension inside it.
The faith gave the story even more meaning for me. These characters relied on God. They prayed. They surrendered. They had to trust Him when they could not see what was coming next. Following Him cost them something.
And they still needed each other. That part mattered to me too. God so often works through people who are willing to stay, protect, help, speak truth, love well, and carry part of the burden with someone else.
By the end, I was already thinking beyond the story in front of me. I wanted more of Ravenwood.
I wanted to see what kind of community could grow under a new duke whose faith shaped the way he lived and led. I wanted to see how his choices would affect the people around him. I kept thinking about what one faithful life could mean for an entire community.
That gave the ending so much hope for me.
I will always remember how beautifully and powerfully this story was written. I will remember the bravery. I will remember how much these people needed God and needed one another. And I will remember that, through every hardship, they were held.
I received a digital copy from the author via JustRead Publicity Tours, LLC. I was not required to write a positive review and received no compensation. All thoughts and opinions shared here are my own, offered honestly and with care, with a focus on the writing, faith content, and overall reading experience.
I am so glad I did. What a story!
These characters endured so much. There was bravery everywhere, and there was also dependence on God Almighty in ways that were very real. They needed Him. They needed one another. They kept going through things that could have broken them completely.
The difficult parts were difficult. They never felt careless to me. They showed what these people had survived and what it cost them to keep moving forward. The darkness was never the point. I kept seeing courage, faith, love, and the ways God was working through people who had been wounded deeply.
Their pain mattered, and so did the way God met them in it.
I loved these characters. I cared about what happened to them. I felt the fear, the grief, the relief, the tenderness, and the hope with them. Rhonda Dragomir wrote this so powerfully and so descriptively that I could see Ravenwood and feel the tension inside it.
The faith gave the story even more meaning for me. These characters relied on God. They prayed. They surrendered. They had to trust Him when they could not see what was coming next. Following Him cost them something.
And they still needed each other. That part mattered to me too. God so often works through people who are willing to stay, protect, help, speak truth, love well, and carry part of the burden with someone else.
By the end, I was already thinking beyond the story in front of me. I wanted more of Ravenwood.
I wanted to see what kind of community could grow under a new duke whose faith shaped the way he lived and led. I wanted to see how his choices would affect the people around him. I kept thinking about what one faithful life could mean for an entire community.
That gave the ending so much hope for me.
I will always remember how beautifully and powerfully this story was written. I will remember the bravery. I will remember how much these people needed God and needed one another. And I will remember that, through every hardship, they were held.
I received a digital copy from the author via JustRead Publicity Tours, LLC. I was not required to write a positive review and received no compensation. All thoughts and opinions shared here are my own, offered honestly and with care, with a focus on the writing, faith content, and overall reading experience.
October 1, 2026
The Heir’s Beloved begins with Liam discovering his true identity–the only surviving heir of a murdered duke–who must return to claim his birthright before the murderer and current ruler marries and secures Queen Elizabeth’s goodwill. Meanwhile Ella, the lowborn granddaughter of nobles, agrees to marry the usurper in order to help provide for the six helpless orphans she takes care of.
I was instantly drawn into this story by the hidden nobility trope–everyone believes Liam is dead, and he remains undercover for most of the book as he gains allies and forges a plan to reclaim his birthright. This is one of my favorite tropes of all times, and the events surrounding it were some of my favorite parts of the book. But despite being the main character with this trope, Liam surprisingly wasn’t my favorite character in the book, due to reasons I’ll mention below. In actuality, Betha, Liam’s adopted mother and a blunt Scotch woman who pushes him constantly towards the goal of claiming his birthright, was my favorite, due to her gruff but goodhearted nature and unique style of getting her way.
Liam’s adopted cousin Symon was easily my second favorite character. Arriving late in the book to help Liam, he was a good-hearted, fun-loving troublemaker sort, who was still loyal to his cousin and kept his word, even when he clearly wished to do otherwise. I was very happy to see that the second book in the series will be focusing on him!
All the other side characters were also well developed and likable! Ella’s band of orphans, while not as developed as I would have preferred, were adorable for what I did see of them, and John, Betha’s betrothed and Liam’s mentor, was loyal, strong, and good-hearted. Even the priest, Father Timothy, was a super intriguing character, embroiling himself in non-priestly plots to help Liam and Ella, and I enjoyed the fact that he was secretly Catholic. I also appreciated the fact that, even though I’m not Catholic, Catholicism wasn’t shown in a negative light, as it typically is in novels set during the Tudor/Elizabethan era that I’ve read.
Ella I liked too–her loyalty to her orphans and religion, and faith in God was admirable. I also enjoyed her feistiness, although there were times she struck me as just plain dumb–why does she need to be present at a battle when literally she did nothing but get in the way? But, I still probably would have liked both her and Liam’s characters better if they’d allied with each other as friends.
However. This is a romance. And as anyone who’s read my book reviews before know, the romance is typically the part of books I have the most issue with. Unfortunately, this one was not one of the few exceptions.
Liam and Ella have an almost insta-love connection. I take issue with insta-love not only because it’s unrealistic, but also because it’s purely physical in nature; insta-lust, you might call it. In fact, the villain has the same type of “love” for Ella, all physical. And the only difference between the two is Liam at least (somewhat) respects Ella’s desires for purity and holds them himself, whereas the villain just wants it now.
Then, Ella’s inconsistency in the moral department served as a great source of irritation for me. She feels uncomfortable when the villain puts his arm around her waist and touches her elbow to escort her, or when his knee touches hers–but with Liam, she full-body hugs him, lets him kiss her multiple times, and pick her up around the waist–and she actually wants more? (In her defense, when Liam picks her up, it’s to get her attention to warn her, and he drags her into his house–but the fact that she doesn’t go down kicking and screaming, and that she didn’t even slap him when he proceeded to kiss her (this is their second meeting, by the way) screams double standards just because she’s attracted to him, whereas with the villain it’s not okay because she’s not).
Also why would Liam do that? Just warn the girl, don’t drag her into your house, call her your sweetheart and kiss her on your second meeting. To her credit though, at the end when Liam asks her to marry him, she points out they’ve only known each other a few weeks–but then of course agrees to. I think, for me, it would have worked better to have made Liam’s motivation also helping the orphans by winning back his birthright, and had him and Ella get to know each other through their mutual goals and fall for each other gradually.
Ella was inconsistent in other ways as well, such as being stated to be afraid of horses, and yet she drives, feeds, and cares for one just fine. And she also felt a bit like a a “see how special I am” character in that she seemed to master a skill on her first time of doing it.
There’s another point of inconsistency in the story though. Ella spouts off Liam’s identity in front of another guy–and yet this guy shows no reaction at all, and is shocked later on when he hears it, as if he wasn’t there when Ella originally spouted it off. I actually went back and reread the section to make sure I didn’t miss anything. There were a few other issues as well, such as abrupt time skips and head-hopping, but these were minor and did little to affect my overall enjoyment of the story.
The dialogue was quite good–I enjoyed that the author included some Scottish terminology alongside regular English, and it fit the story and characters well. Each character had their own unique voice, especially Betha’s, which is another reason I absolutely loved her! Her backstory, loyalty, and desire to avenge her mistress was literally everything I love in a strong female character.
Most of the story outside of the inconsistencies listed above was great. Planning Liam’s recapture and duel with the villain was one of the funnest parts of the story, and Betha’s and Ella’s own plans they formed and executed behind his back to further help him were quite entertaining.
My only other plausibility question was regarding a couple of the historical details. This is set in the Elizabethan Tudor era (not the medieval, please don’t call it medieval!) so I’m not as well-versed in this time period and may be wrong. In the novel, the villain’s main motivation is to fully usurp Liam’s title and become the duke himself, and Queen Elizabeth finally decides to grant it to him when he marries, since he’s one of her favorites. Elizabeth is also said to be a romantic and would let two people of unequal classes marry. The only reason I take question to this is the fact that she became so furious when her favorite, Robert Dudley, secretly married, she permanently banned his wife from her court, and she literally imprisoned Sir Walter Raleigh, another favorite, when she discovered he had also secretly married and had a child. Perhaps this anger was more out of the fact that they married secretly and without her permission, but at the very least, I don’t think this warrants calling her a romantic.
In light of all that, I think I’m going to have to give The Heir’s Beloved a solid three stars. I loved the tropes, all the side characters, and the action, setting, and Scottish terminology, but struggled to connect with the two main characters and unfortunately detested the romance. However, I would still highly recommend this novel to lovers of historical romance–the message, writing, and setting of the book are beautiful.
Rating: 3/5 Stars
Content Warning: There are mentions of sexual harassment and abuse, however none are described and all is tactfully handled in a clean, Christian way.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and a positive review was not required. All views expressed are my honest opinions.
I was instantly drawn into this story by the hidden nobility trope–everyone believes Liam is dead, and he remains undercover for most of the book as he gains allies and forges a plan to reclaim his birthright. This is one of my favorite tropes of all times, and the events surrounding it were some of my favorite parts of the book. But despite being the main character with this trope, Liam surprisingly wasn’t my favorite character in the book, due to reasons I’ll mention below. In actuality, Betha, Liam’s adopted mother and a blunt Scotch woman who pushes him constantly towards the goal of claiming his birthright, was my favorite, due to her gruff but goodhearted nature and unique style of getting her way.
Liam’s adopted cousin Symon was easily my second favorite character. Arriving late in the book to help Liam, he was a good-hearted, fun-loving troublemaker sort, who was still loyal to his cousin and kept his word, even when he clearly wished to do otherwise. I was very happy to see that the second book in the series will be focusing on him!
All the other side characters were also well developed and likable! Ella’s band of orphans, while not as developed as I would have preferred, were adorable for what I did see of them, and John, Betha’s betrothed and Liam’s mentor, was loyal, strong, and good-hearted. Even the priest, Father Timothy, was a super intriguing character, embroiling himself in non-priestly plots to help Liam and Ella, and I enjoyed the fact that he was secretly Catholic. I also appreciated the fact that, even though I’m not Catholic, Catholicism wasn’t shown in a negative light, as it typically is in novels set during the Tudor/Elizabethan era that I’ve read.
Ella I liked too–her loyalty to her orphans and religion, and faith in God was admirable. I also enjoyed her feistiness, although there were times she struck me as just plain dumb–why does she need to be present at a battle when literally she did nothing but get in the way? But, I still probably would have liked both her and Liam’s characters better if they’d allied with each other as friends.
However. This is a romance. And as anyone who’s read my book reviews before know, the romance is typically the part of books I have the most issue with. Unfortunately, this one was not one of the few exceptions.
Liam and Ella have an almost insta-love connection. I take issue with insta-love not only because it’s unrealistic, but also because it’s purely physical in nature; insta-lust, you might call it. In fact, the villain has the same type of “love” for Ella, all physical. And the only difference between the two is Liam at least (somewhat) respects Ella’s desires for purity and holds them himself, whereas the villain just wants it now.
Then, Ella’s inconsistency in the moral department served as a great source of irritation for me. She feels uncomfortable when the villain puts his arm around her waist and touches her elbow to escort her, or when his knee touches hers–but with Liam, she full-body hugs him, lets him kiss her multiple times, and pick her up around the waist–and she actually wants more? (In her defense, when Liam picks her up, it’s to get her attention to warn her, and he drags her into his house–but the fact that she doesn’t go down kicking and screaming, and that she didn’t even slap him when he proceeded to kiss her (this is their second meeting, by the way) screams double standards just because she’s attracted to him, whereas with the villain it’s not okay because she’s not).
Also why would Liam do that? Just warn the girl, don’t drag her into your house, call her your sweetheart and kiss her on your second meeting. To her credit though, at the end when Liam asks her to marry him, she points out they’ve only known each other a few weeks–but then of course agrees to. I think, for me, it would have worked better to have made Liam’s motivation also helping the orphans by winning back his birthright, and had him and Ella get to know each other through their mutual goals and fall for each other gradually.
Ella was inconsistent in other ways as well, such as being stated to be afraid of horses, and yet she drives, feeds, and cares for one just fine. And she also felt a bit like a a “see how special I am” character in that she seemed to master a skill on her first time of doing it.
There’s another point of inconsistency in the story though. Ella spouts off Liam’s identity in front of another guy–and yet this guy shows no reaction at all, and is shocked later on when he hears it, as if he wasn’t there when Ella originally spouted it off. I actually went back and reread the section to make sure I didn’t miss anything. There were a few other issues as well, such as abrupt time skips and head-hopping, but these were minor and did little to affect my overall enjoyment of the story.
The dialogue was quite good–I enjoyed that the author included some Scottish terminology alongside regular English, and it fit the story and characters well. Each character had their own unique voice, especially Betha’s, which is another reason I absolutely loved her! Her backstory, loyalty, and desire to avenge her mistress was literally everything I love in a strong female character.
Most of the story outside of the inconsistencies listed above was great. Planning Liam’s recapture and duel with the villain was one of the funnest parts of the story, and Betha’s and Ella’s own plans they formed and executed behind his back to further help him were quite entertaining.
My only other plausibility question was regarding a couple of the historical details. This is set in the Elizabethan Tudor era (not the medieval, please don’t call it medieval!) so I’m not as well-versed in this time period and may be wrong. In the novel, the villain’s main motivation is to fully usurp Liam’s title and become the duke himself, and Queen Elizabeth finally decides to grant it to him when he marries, since he’s one of her favorites. Elizabeth is also said to be a romantic and would let two people of unequal classes marry. The only reason I take question to this is the fact that she became so furious when her favorite, Robert Dudley, secretly married, she permanently banned his wife from her court, and she literally imprisoned Sir Walter Raleigh, another favorite, when she discovered he had also secretly married and had a child. Perhaps this anger was more out of the fact that they married secretly and without her permission, but at the very least, I don’t think this warrants calling her a romantic.
In light of all that, I think I’m going to have to give The Heir’s Beloved a solid three stars. I loved the tropes, all the side characters, and the action, setting, and Scottish terminology, but struggled to connect with the two main characters and unfortunately detested the romance. However, I would still highly recommend this novel to lovers of historical romance–the message, writing, and setting of the book are beautiful.
Rating: 3/5 Stars
Content Warning: There are mentions of sexual harassment and abuse, however none are described and all is tactfully handled in a clean, Christian way.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and a positive review was not required. All views expressed are my honest opinions.
October 6, 2026
An interesting tale of regaining Ravenwood from an evil steward to the rightful Duke.
The author develops the characters well. Twice I've been asked who my favorite character is. I have no answer as all have positive and negative traits. Probably Liam as he stays focused on his mission.
A romance with not too much mushiness or tantalizing.
The faith themes are spun throughout the book without preachiness.
The authors notes and reference to the glossary at the back of the book were most helpful in understanding the story and the dialect. I suggest a perusal of the glossary if you aren't familiar with Scottish brogue.
The author develops the characters well. Twice I've been asked who my favorite character is. I have no answer as all have positive and negative traits. Probably Liam as he stays focused on his mission.
A romance with not too much mushiness or tantalizing.
The faith themes are spun throughout the book without preachiness.
The authors notes and reference to the glossary at the back of the book were most helpful in understanding the story and the dialect. I suggest a perusal of the glossary if you aren't familiar with Scottish brogue.
October 1, 2026
“What do the problems of an English duchy have to do with a Scotsman like me?” ““Ye’re nae a Scot.”
What a 25th birthday present for Liam! So begins his journey to retake his rightful position as an English duke in The Heir’s Beloved by Rhonda Dragomir. I don’t usually read medieval novels. The whole concept of medieval novels has always been a turn-off for me, but Dragomir may have single-handedly opened my mind to a new genre! (Win for both of us!)
Strong and braw, and a trained warrior, Liam begins to understand his legacy and the loss to himself personally and the kingdom. But how can he defeat an evil usurper with his large contingent of malevolent minions? Bent on revenge for grievous wrongs done him and his family, will Liam look to his own understanding in the end or listen to God’s voice?
One of Liam’s best allies is a woman. And I don’t refer to the lady he falls in love with, but the one who has loved him for a lifetime. Wheest, but Betha is a complicated character. Fiercely loyal, with a vocabulary to embarrass a sailor, she can scheme and plan with the best. Will her advice prove true? Or will her prickly character drive off the very prize Liam most wants to win?
I loved Ella, but does she come with baggage. Her baggage has names, empty tummies and abused souls. Will Ella be able to continue to support her beloved orphan friends if she doesn’t acquiesce to the hated acting duke? How long before Ella realizes she may have sold her soul to the devil?
My fave character is John. He is meekness and power wrapped together in kindness and a thirst for the right. What have those qualities cost him n the past, and will helping Liam cost him more than the evil duke has already extracted?
Bottom line, I loved this book. If you like historical fiction at all, I urge you to give it a try. You can turn to the glossary in the back for help with unfamiliar Scottish or old English terms, or Google them. Enjoy Elizabethan England with its religious upheaval, castles, feuding, and pageantry!
I received a copy of the book from the author. I also bought my own pb for the keeper shelf. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“Nobility is in someone's soul, not their parentage.”
“When strength is nearly gone, the mind is the best weapon.”
“Honor was a virtue. But it might become a weakness.”
“God alone is judge. When He renders a verdict, He ensures justice is meted out. When self-appointed men judge, it often devolves into revenge. Retribution then arises from the heart of man, not the will of God.”
“…effective prayer is not a matter of mumbling meaningless words you’ve memorized. It’s not mere words from the lips God hears, but the prayers of the heart. Speak to Him, and He will listen.”
What a 25th birthday present for Liam! So begins his journey to retake his rightful position as an English duke in The Heir’s Beloved by Rhonda Dragomir. I don’t usually read medieval novels. The whole concept of medieval novels has always been a turn-off for me, but Dragomir may have single-handedly opened my mind to a new genre! (Win for both of us!)
Strong and braw, and a trained warrior, Liam begins to understand his legacy and the loss to himself personally and the kingdom. But how can he defeat an evil usurper with his large contingent of malevolent minions? Bent on revenge for grievous wrongs done him and his family, will Liam look to his own understanding in the end or listen to God’s voice?
One of Liam’s best allies is a woman. And I don’t refer to the lady he falls in love with, but the one who has loved him for a lifetime. Wheest, but Betha is a complicated character. Fiercely loyal, with a vocabulary to embarrass a sailor, she can scheme and plan with the best. Will her advice prove true? Or will her prickly character drive off the very prize Liam most wants to win?
I loved Ella, but does she come with baggage. Her baggage has names, empty tummies and abused souls. Will Ella be able to continue to support her beloved orphan friends if she doesn’t acquiesce to the hated acting duke? How long before Ella realizes she may have sold her soul to the devil?
My fave character is John. He is meekness and power wrapped together in kindness and a thirst for the right. What have those qualities cost him n the past, and will helping Liam cost him more than the evil duke has already extracted?
Bottom line, I loved this book. If you like historical fiction at all, I urge you to give it a try. You can turn to the glossary in the back for help with unfamiliar Scottish or old English terms, or Google them. Enjoy Elizabethan England with its religious upheaval, castles, feuding, and pageantry!
I received a copy of the book from the author. I also bought my own pb for the keeper shelf. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“Nobility is in someone's soul, not their parentage.”
“When strength is nearly gone, the mind is the best weapon.”
“Honor was a virtue. But it might become a weakness.”
“God alone is judge. When He renders a verdict, He ensures justice is meted out. When self-appointed men judge, it often devolves into revenge. Retribution then arises from the heart of man, not the will of God.”
“…effective prayer is not a matter of mumbling meaningless words you’ve memorized. It’s not mere words from the lips God hears, but the prayers of the heart. Speak to Him, and He will listen.”
October 3, 2026
Christian Historical Romance is a wonderful genre. The Heir's Beloved by Rhonda Dragomir is Book 1 in The Ravenwood Chronicles. I am excited about this new series.
I was immediately hooked on this story as soon as I began reading it. The setting is 1587 in England. The main characters are Liam and Ella. Liam lost his family in a fire and was orphaned when he was young. He has lived the past 20 years living as one person, only to discover on his 25th Birthday, that he was actually Duke of Ravenswood. The person who started the fire that killed Liam's family has been discovered to have stole Liam's inheritance and identity. Ella is a lovely woman who has a heart for orphaned children and would do anything to protect them. Liam and Ella have a chance encounter and Liam is instantly smitten by Ella. Liam and Ella face danger with Villians who are trying to scare Liam from regaining his Title and inheritance. I really enjoyed how the characters got to know one another and protected one another. Ella was cautious to show her feelings toward Liam as she felt "low class" to Liam. The story was intriguing with all the action and the author really was descriptive of the settings of the Historical times. The book is one of Faith, LOVE and History. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Romance. GREAT BOOK!
I was immediately hooked on this story as soon as I began reading it. The setting is 1587 in England. The main characters are Liam and Ella. Liam lost his family in a fire and was orphaned when he was young. He has lived the past 20 years living as one person, only to discover on his 25th Birthday, that he was actually Duke of Ravenswood. The person who started the fire that killed Liam's family has been discovered to have stole Liam's inheritance and identity. Ella is a lovely woman who has a heart for orphaned children and would do anything to protect them. Liam and Ella have a chance encounter and Liam is instantly smitten by Ella. Liam and Ella face danger with Villians who are trying to scare Liam from regaining his Title and inheritance. I really enjoyed how the characters got to know one another and protected one another. Ella was cautious to show her feelings toward Liam as she felt "low class" to Liam. The story was intriguing with all the action and the author really was descriptive of the settings of the Historical times. The book is one of Faith, LOVE and History. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Romance. GREAT BOOK!
October 6, 2026
Ella is an orphan who lives with her weak uncle and her vindictive aunt. Like Cinderella, she's forced to do scullery work, help the cook, and serve her aunt (who has no issues with slapping her or pulling her hair). Oh, and dress in fancy clothing when there's a potential suitor over. (Then, it's back to the scullery.) When Ella discovers that her aunt has arranged for her to marry the steward of Ravenwood, she agrees, just so that the village orphans she cares for can survive.
Ella doesn't know about Steward Fenwick's vile nature.
But Liam does. Liam has been raised in Scotland because of Fenwick's murderous ways. But now he's of age to retake the castle and restore his family line. But it has to be done secretively, stealthily. Which Liam is prepared to do. Until he sees Ella.
Liam and Ella just might be a match made in heaven. But to find out if they are, they'll have to outwit Fenwick. Keep the faith. And protect the orphans. All without Fenwick suspecting anything...or taking their own lives.
Can they do it?
I loved this novel! Rhonda Dragomir writes so beautifully about the Elizabethan era. Dangerous for women and children. Dangerous for heirs trying to retake what has been lost to them. Yet still filled with the faithful and true. Wonderful novel!
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions shared here are my own honest ones.
Ella doesn't know about Steward Fenwick's vile nature.
But Liam does. Liam has been raised in Scotland because of Fenwick's murderous ways. But now he's of age to retake the castle and restore his family line. But it has to be done secretively, stealthily. Which Liam is prepared to do. Until he sees Ella.
Liam and Ella just might be a match made in heaven. But to find out if they are, they'll have to outwit Fenwick. Keep the faith. And protect the orphans. All without Fenwick suspecting anything...or taking their own lives.
Can they do it?
I loved this novel! Rhonda Dragomir writes so beautifully about the Elizabethan era. Dangerous for women and children. Dangerous for heirs trying to retake what has been lost to them. Yet still filled with the faithful and true. Wonderful novel!
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions shared here are my own honest ones.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Ravenwood heir in disguise, a damsel in distress, combined with a dastardly villain. What more could you want in a tale told in merry olde England in 1587?
Knight Liam Kerr has come to claim his rightful place as Duke from a usurper but must do it in stealth. To complicate matters, Ella has agreed to marry evil Fenwick in order to escape her aunt and uncle and ensure the care of several orphan children who have her heart.
The author has captured history and made it come alive. There is danger, romance and a bit of wit and whimsy thanks to Betha, mum to Liam since she rescued him as a babe.
Ms Dragomir teaches faith lessons in the person of Father Timothy. Liam and Ella seek justice and mature spiritually through difficult circumstances. Romance is hard-won.
Trigger warnings. The book does contain attempted assaults on women, sword fights but not too graphic. This is Elizabethan England after all.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
Knight Liam Kerr has come to claim his rightful place as Duke from a usurper but must do it in stealth. To complicate matters, Ella has agreed to marry evil Fenwick in order to escape her aunt and uncle and ensure the care of several orphan children who have her heart.
The author has captured history and made it come alive. There is danger, romance and a bit of wit and whimsy thanks to Betha, mum to Liam since she rescued him as a babe.
Ms Dragomir teaches faith lessons in the person of Father Timothy. Liam and Ella seek justice and mature spiritually through difficult circumstances. Romance is hard-won.
Trigger warnings. The book does contain attempted assaults on women, sword fights but not too graphic. This is Elizabethan England after all.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I have to say before reading this book I had no idea what to expect or whether if I was actually going to enjoy this story! Thankfully I ended up having the thrill of a lifetime and ended up enjoying every page of this amazing story! If you are someone who is looking for a story set against the Elizabethan Era and has some vibes of Cinderella then this is definitely the story for you. These characters are spectacular and they all work towards a common goal of achieving what they truly want.
We are introduced to Liam who is a lowly Knight. He soon finds out that uears ago his family had a very important title that was stolen from an usurper and he vows to get it back. However, the quest won't be easy but Liam will make the best of it. Meanwhile we are introduced to Ella who longs for a better life away from her horrible aunt and uncle but her only option is to marry a horrible man. When the opportunity to join up with Liam comes out she immediately joins in. Will love blossom between these two?
We are introduced to Liam who is a lowly Knight. He soon finds out that uears ago his family had a very important title that was stolen from an usurper and he vows to get it back. However, the quest won't be easy but Liam will make the best of it. Meanwhile we are introduced to Ella who longs for a better life away from her horrible aunt and uncle but her only option is to marry a horrible man. When the opportunity to join up with Liam comes out she immediately joins in. Will love blossom between these two?
October 2, 2026
The opening paragraph pulled me in like a strong current in a storm. Made me laugh out loud--possibly because I raised sons. Then, “like a North Sea wave”, mirth transitioned to dire straits. It soon became clear that this author would take no shortcuts. No muddling through. She faced the difficult scenes head-on. Dank, dark situations that make your skin crawl, liberally sprinkled with hope that keeps you bustling toward the tiny spark of light at the end of the tunnel. And the light was always there.
Dragomir’s characters are well and fully written with so much life they seemed to leave the pages and join me in the room. The strong emotions and well-formed arcs led to deep friendships. I especially enjoyed the camaraderie between Liam and his childhood friend, Symon. And, of course, the spark between Liam and the spunky Ella, though it's a slow-burn on her side, since she considers herself far below his status.
And so it goes, a tale of knights and ladies, of hope and cruel intent. Vindication and victory. Proof that love is worth the wait.
Dragomir’s characters are well and fully written with so much life they seemed to leave the pages and join me in the room. The strong emotions and well-formed arcs led to deep friendships. I especially enjoyed the camaraderie between Liam and his childhood friend, Symon. And, of course, the spark between Liam and the spunky Ella, though it's a slow-burn on her side, since she considers herself far below his status.
And so it goes, a tale of knights and ladies, of hope and cruel intent. Vindication and victory. Proof that love is worth the wait.
maybe
October 4, 2026Oh, where to start? This one is a difficult and emotional read, but oh so beautiful as well. The story handles some difficult topics with tact and grace, and doesn't glorify the crimes committed. Instead, the message focuses more on the healing aspects of these events, and shows that the characters are strong and still valuable even after such life-changing horrors. I loved how skillfully that message of healing and hope were woven throughout the story! It made what might have been a difficult and depressing read a powerful tale of faith and overcoming instead. Liam took a while for me to care for, but I loved Ella from the start. I also found the different cultures to be an interesting backdrop for the story, getting to see the various subtly between the two as the story unfolds. This was a wonderful story, and although challenging, it ended up being an inspiring read!
*I received an ecopy from the author. This does not affect my review. This review is voluntary.*
*I received an ecopy from the author. This does not affect my review. This review is voluntary.*
Currently Reading
September 30, 2026If you've been reading my blog for any length of time, you have heard me say that historical fiction is my favorite genre. Since I have English/Scot ancestry, I am always eager to read stories set in these locations.
The Heir's Beloved is set in Elizabethan England, and has a wisp of a Cinderella taste. There are knights and dukes and villains, along with a damsel in distress, and orphaned children.
Dragomir uses highly descriptive language, which makes it easy to picture the scenes and actions, and carried me deep into the story. I wanted to keep reading, to find out what happens to Liam and Ella, and how their faith helped them overcome obstacles.
If you enjoy historical fiction with knights, dukes, damsels, and a Cinderella vibe, you must add this to your TBR list.
I received a complimentary copy. These opinions are my own.
The Heir's Beloved is set in Elizabethan England, and has a wisp of a Cinderella taste. There are knights and dukes and villains, along with a damsel in distress, and orphaned children.
Dragomir uses highly descriptive language, which makes it easy to picture the scenes and actions, and carried me deep into the story. I wanted to keep reading, to find out what happens to Liam and Ella, and how their faith helped them overcome obstacles.
If you enjoy historical fiction with knights, dukes, damsels, and a Cinderella vibe, you must add this to your TBR list.
I received a complimentary copy. These opinions are my own.
October 2, 2026
First chapter and I already choked up...
I love this book! Adventure, knights, intrigue, false identity- this book has got it all! I enjoyed Ella's character and the ways she grew throughout the book. She realized that her weaknesses were really some of her greatest strengths.
This time period is one of my favorite to have books set in! I highly recommend this stunning book from Rhonda Dragomir! I can't wait for the next one in the series!
I received an ARC from the author/publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I love this book! Adventure, knights, intrigue, false identity- this book has got it all! I enjoyed Ella's character and the ways she grew throughout the book. She realized that her weaknesses were really some of her greatest strengths.
This time period is one of my favorite to have books set in! I highly recommend this stunning book from Rhonda Dragomir! I can't wait for the next one in the series!
I received an ARC from the author/publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 7, 2026
Rhonda Dragomir has outdone herself in this historical romance! When Liam battles to reclaim his title as duke and falls in love with the woman who is slated to marry his usurper, he must decide if he wants to follow his instincts or God’s precepts. The action is fast-paced and the characters strong, with Betha, the feisty nursemaid who saved Liam as a baby, wrangling her way into my heart as my favorite. A definite must-read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am blessed with an English heritage so when the opportunity came to read this book set there in the 1500s I jumped at the chance.
I am so glad i did as I loved the characters and the historical settings and struggles.
I am anticipating future books by this author.
I highly recommend it. If you.love Scottish books, you will enjoy this one too.
I am so glad i did as I loved the characters and the historical settings and struggles.
I am anticipating future books by this author.
I highly recommend it. If you.love Scottish books, you will enjoy this one too.
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