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A company of knights chosen to deliver a sealed trunk from the Templar treasury in Jerusalem to safekeeping in Paris. A group of pilgrims seeking the protection of the Templars to return home as the Saracens prepare to besiege the city. A mysterious treasure that someone will even kill to possess…

His dream of becoming a knight achieved, Bartholomew heads home to avenge his parents—only to find himself hunted and in need of the assistance of a most unlikely and unpredictable ally. Anna seeks justice with a disregard for the law that shocks Bartholomew, but the bold maiden’s tactics are as effective as her kisses are seductive. Does she truly wish to aid him in regaining his legacy, or is she using him as a pawn in some scheme of her own?

324 pages, ebook

First published January 19, 2016

156 people are currently reading
616 people want to read

About the author

Claire Delacroix

123 books518 followers
New York Times bestselling author Claire Delacroix sold her first book in 1992, an historical romance called ROMANCE OF THE ROSE. Since then, she has published over sixty romance novels and novellas, and has also been published under the names Claire Cross and Deborah Cooke. She has an honours degree in history, with a focus on medieval studies. She is an avid reader of medieval vernacular literature, fairy tales and fantasy novels.

For books written under the pseudonym, Claire Cross, see:
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For books written under Claire's own name, Deborah Cooke, please see:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...

In October and November 2009, she was the writer in residence for the Toronto Public Library, the first time that the library has hosted a residency focused on the romance genre.

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http://www.deborahcooke.com

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Profile Image for Celestine.
952 reviews132 followers
November 25, 2017
Young Bartholomew, who recently earned his spurs and was a squire at the beginning of the Champions of Saint Euphemia series, has learned honor at the feet of brave and righteous Templar knights. He fought in Jerusalem and was a man at arms in all but name. He was utterly devoted to Gaston, the French hero from book one. So I was very, very surprised when Bartholomew's story took us to northern England with a variation of the Robin Hood and Maid Marian tale. It was an exciting, new twist to a familiar story, where the outlaw in the wood's is this story's heroine, and her name is Anna.

The Grand Master of the Templars has decided that the reliquary the Champions have been protecting should be housed in Scotland, so Bartholomew asks them to take a path that will skirt the land where he was born and where he was divested of his inheritance. Of course, woodland thief Anna and her brother encounter the knights resting around a campfire and decide to steal the fat saddlebag that they believe is stuffed with food. From there, an elaborate tale unravels that involves the loss and recovery of the reliquary. It passes through many hands, some righteous and some despicable. Claire Delacroix is very good at setting up nefarious and just characters in very few paragraphs. You really get a feel for good and bad in her books. Very few individuals tread the gray area in between, which lends a certain "story telling" or fable quality to the narrative.

This is the third book in the series, and there are no cookie cutter characters. Each knight and damsel in distress is an original. They always have great backstories, but in this instance, the villains also get some page time as true characters. There is no mystery about who is looking for the saddlebag with the reliquary; it is too busy being stolen back and forth from one person to another.

It is ironic that the very honorable Bartholomew finds himself in the company of thieves and assuming a "disguise" to recover the reliquary. Of course, the elaborate mummery is doomed to failure, but it was fun and exciting all the same. This period of the book sets up the romance between Anna and Bartholomew, and how they move from enemies to lovers is a good story that is well told. There is also some weightiness given to the dilemma of honor, and it is sobering how the pursuit of honor can lead men to suffer for their convictions. "I cannot let my desire dismiss my morality. There must be a way, and I pledge to you that I will spend all my days and nights endeavoring to find it, but villainy is not the solution."

This series just keeps getting better. I never would have thought that dour, young Bartholomew would become one of my favorites of the Champions.

Book source: Kindle Freebie (but also available on Kindle Unlimited).
Profile Image for Becca.
703 reviews119 followers
March 14, 2017
Claire Delacroix created another story I could lose myself in with The Crusader's Kiss. This was the third novel in The Champions of Saint Euphemia series. While it is helpful to have background knowledge of the characters and the relic, overall, I believe if you understand how the series is put together, you could read this book as a standalone.

This tale is about Bartholomew, the squire of Gaston (Book 1), who was recently knighted. In the first two books of the series, I really didn't get a good read on him and thought him a bit of a judgmental bore, but I really like how he shined with honor and bravery in this book. I think he had some growing up to do and he really embodied a noble hero here. The heroine, Anna, has a tough past, which becomes more and more heartbreaking as each layer is revealed. She is prickly and stubborn, but Delacroix balanced her hidden vulnerability and courage with her outward toughness in such a way that I loved her character and was rooting for her to the end.

While the other books in this series involve a lot of travel, this one takes place in one area--in particular, a keep that is Bartholomew's birthright. The castle is currently inhabited by a cruel overlord who overthrew the previous baron, Bartholomew's father, and took over when Bartholomew was only four years old. Since then, he has trained in anticipation of his return and the tenants that have remained have either been forced into hiding or killed for uprising. It is a harsh existence and one that stirs Bartholomew to concoct a plan to somehow fight for his legacy and the freedom of the tenants without losing his honor.

Anna is a thief and one who has no problem doing whatever it takes to survive. She is cunning, brave, and outspoken, channeling her inner strength to survive despite the horrors of her past. She first encounters Bartholomew when she and her brother steal the relic, thinking the sack it is in is filled with food. When Anna's brother, along with the relic, are captured by the overlord, Anna and Bartholomew join forces to each see their own ends met. However, over time, the two are drawn together and the differences in their personalities actually bring out the best in each other.

Overall, this was an enjoyable, engrossing read. There are sprinkles of medeival history throughout, but not so much that it got boring. For those who have been following the series, Duncan, Fergus, and Leila all make appearances. In addition, new characters and new stories are introduced. It was a full cast, but I never felt like Bartholomew and Anna needed more page time.

My only quibble with the book (and the reason I cannot give it 5 stars), is the ending. Good heavens, so much happened, I still am not sure everything was resolved. I'll give it to Delacroix, some of the events I did not see coming at all. However, I also found all the chaos confusing and I'm not quite sure how Bartholomew won the day and the castle based on my understanding of the events. It was just a bit too much for me to comprehend fully.

That one quibble aside, this was still an excellent adventure with healing, hope, and love. The Robin Hood theme was fun and had a unique twist and all the evil ones got their due. I can't wait to read more about this group!

Copy gifted by the Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Lorrie.
272 reviews2 followers
March 11, 2016
With each book I read from this series I think it is better than the last. Truth is, every one of them are outstanding. Each book could be stand-alone reads but I would recommend beginning with "The Crusader's Bride" since it is the very beginning of each Knight's journey.

This book was Bartholomew's story. He leaves the Knight in book 1 after being knighted himself to travel to the castle of his birth. He is the rightful heir but the castle was taken over years prior by a spiteful neighbor. Bartholomew's group carry the treasure from Jerusalem only to have it stolen from them just outside the keep which is where he meets Anna. Because he was forced away from his home at a very young age, the surroundings are yet unfamiliar so he needs Anna to plan his strategy on retrieving the treasure and freeing her brother who was caught and jailed for possessing the treasure. This story was about a knight with honor, trust, and who insists on following the laws. Anna is a female Robin Hood who keeps the villagers safely hidden in the forest away from the evil lord and she is bent on revenge for the what they have done. The two not only learn to work together, but find respect for one another. That mutual respect warms into a love that both feel will be denied by the King but they strive to enjoy the small measure of time they have together anyway. It's Anna's stubborn ways that bring truth to Bartholomew's past. Some things he didn't know. There are secrets-a-plenty for Anna too, but you'll have to read the book to learn them.

This book had so many twists and turns, I refused to put the book down. I devoured it in two days and read the last chapter this morning. Awesome read. There's no way anyone could see what happens around the bend in this story. The last third of the book will have your eyes wide and heart thumping. Awesome read! I recommend it highly.

Copy gifted by the Publisher in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Debbie.
944 reviews80 followers
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May 23, 2016
The Crusader’s Kiss by Claire Delacroix


Claire’s wonderful third in her Champions of St. Euphemia series is about loss, treachery and reclamations. Its stars a foe to lovers, ill-fated couple a potty mouthed, thieving by necessity heroine and an honorable, without reproach knight who have great chemistry and witty repartees. Her period perfect dialogue delivers an exquisite era fact-packed tale that gives readers a genuine peek into the past, character catch-ups and sweeping vistas. The intense darker storyline, the resemblance to the Robin Hood story and OMG ending make it; a one setting can’t put it down, page-turner.

Deciding to avenge the theft of his family’s holding with the hope of reclaiming it for himself was not an easy choice for the recently knighted Bartholomew. He was offered a position in the employ of the former Templar Knight Gaston, a man whom he owes his life to, the man who saw him dubbed a knight. But the decision is made so its time to head off to fulfill his destiny. In the forest outside the holding Bartholomew and his fellow travelers are robbed by what appears to be two young boys. When one escapes he’s determined to capture the other and is surprised by what he finds under the clever disguise.
Anna and her brother Percy survive by robbing travelers in the forest outside of Haynesdale keep and they’ve just spotted a particularly wealthy group judging by their garments. Just when they think they’ve escaped suddenly the travelers capture Anna and a party from the holding catches Percy. Anna is given a choice by her captors, help them recover their belongings that was taken along with Percy and they will help her get her brother back. She knows she can’t trust knights but she has no choice because she will not leave without Percy.
Profile Image for Heather.
781 reviews24 followers
June 8, 2018
I think this one is my favorite of the series so far.  Everything seems to have come together well for a great story; strong characters, complex conflict, highs and lows, strong dialogue, and great adventure.  It lacked some of the weaknesses I found in the character development of book one, The Crusader's Bride, and though I enjoyed book two, The Crusader's Heart, this one just seemed to be a stronger well rounded story with the elements that make for a great romance.  I enjoyed it a lot.  I loved how strong Anna was, how noble and honorable Bartholomew was, how well they worked together, and their story was so enjoyable and entertaining. The villain was strong, the conflict was believable and was a good match for the two main characters.  They really had to work together to overcome their obstacles. Definitely a very enjoyable story with all of the aspects I look for in a epic romance. So good!

A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Tracy Emro.
2,125 reviews64 followers
February 11, 2016
4.5 stars.

Yet another excellent installment in this series!

I have been looking forward to Bartholomew's story since the first book. He seemed much older and much more mature in this book than he did in the previous books. He has such a good heart and is really a wonderful hero. In fact he is so honorable that I found it almost impossible to believe that he would agree to do what he agreed to with Lady Marie - that he would even agree to it in the first place knocked my rating down by 1/2 a star.

Anna is pretty much Bartholomew's complete opposite - yet in her own way is just as honorable and loyal as he is. She just doesn't hold to the law and vows the way he does. She has suffered greatly and has blamed herself for the troubles of others. She will do whatever necessary to improve the lives of those she loves.

Bartholomew and Anna meet when she and her brother rob his traveling party - they steal the artifact that was brought back from the Temple in Jerusalem. Unfortunately, Anna's brother is captured and the artifact taken along with him, before Bartholomew can retrieve it. This begins the back and forth game of ARTIFACT, ARTIFACT who has the ARTIFACT (lol).

During this time many secrets are discovered, for both Anna & Bartholomew. Love also blossoms, yet seems unattainable. Anna and Bartholomew work well together and thankfully after many twists and turns, finally get a very well deserved HEA.

This book is the third in the series - but could very easily be a standalone title. I would highly recommend this book!
201 reviews1 follower
October 8, 2024
Justice prevails

Take a young woman in disguise stealing Robin Hood style, a knight trying to reclaim his lost legacy, a stolen sacred relic, assorted other knights, squires (including one in disguise), a determined Monk, a devious wife, plus assorted other characters and you have this nail biting tale of justice, love, secrets kept and revealed and a final HEA for our two main characters - Anna and Bartholomew. The action was nail-biting at times. The romance was hard won (mild and not offensive). The ending was extremely satisfying. While it can be read stand-alone, the friendships will make more sense if the books are read in order. Another well written romantic adventure from a talented author!
Profile Image for Shirley Hamlod.
1,115 reviews7 followers
July 13, 2020
This was a delightful story of daring deeds and passion. The continuing story of keeping the holy relic safe is interesting as it twists and turns. We gradually learn more about the other characters we’ve met along the way so far. Bartholomew and Anna’s story is intricately written as their destinies entwine. Loved it!
210 reviews2 followers
July 25, 2023
Bartholomew and Anna

Absolutely loved their story. . On Bartholomew journey to Ferguson home, he has them take the road leading to what he believes is his former home, what he finds he does not like. Her is an adventurous journey to be had, while losing his heart in the process, but a man bent on doing the right thing. . . Will HE?!
37 reviews
April 13, 2018
A other great one

Claire Delacroix's has done it again. I am amazed by the number of books she has produced a nd the wonderful, believable characters and situations the find themselves in. And there is love.
2,364 reviews6 followers
January 27, 2022
intriguing and action

A continuing story with Barthomew sees his legacy and future put in order. This too has much action and intrigue
1,779 reviews6 followers
November 15, 2016
This was a well-written, very entertaining four book series. The Coxwell siblings were so fun, and I enjoyed reading about them, their family members and their love interests. Philippa's high school crush returns, determined to fix his past mistakes and she he's not the bad boy she remembers. Maralys's sister walks out on her husband and kids and Maralys breaks her own rules and steps in to help. She doesn't intend to admit to her unfinished business with her twin's ex-husband James, but James realizes their second chance at love may be their best shot at happiness. Matt walks out on his marriage to go visit an old flame, and while he is gone, his mother-in law unexpectedly moves in, his daughter demonstrates some attitude and a couple of poodles join the mix, Can this group find a balance? Charming, easygoing Zach meets a cute waitress and finds himself determined to figure out how to make her smile. Jen's mom is starting to play matchmaker, and Jen decides Zach would be a great fake date. They soon start to realize that there's more beneath the surface than they realize... These were great books and I highly recommend them. Copy gifted by the Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
1,779 reviews6 followers
September 4, 2016
This was a well-written, entertaining book. A medieval romance, Bartholomew is a knight returning from Jerusalem to avenge his parents and reclaim his holding. Anna is seeking justice and isn't really concerned about the law. They meet in conflict, and warily decide to work together for a period of time. They find themselves drawn towards each other. It was so much fun to read about their journey together and I was sorry to see the story come to an end! This book can be read as a standalone, though it is the third book in a trilogy with related characters. Copy gifted by the Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kathy.
1,110 reviews4 followers
August 1, 2019
Great stories about a fabulous, complex family

Families can be messy! These four books are wonderful windows into the lives of a complex, intriguing family. The stories are at times surprising, at times sad, often amusing, but definitely feel realistic. Great characters and you really feel that you are a nonverbal member of the family. Each book can be read separately, but my suggestion is to clear your schedule and hunker down for a Coxwell marathon, you won’t be able to put the books down!
Profile Image for Kathy.
1,110 reviews4 followers
March 27, 2016
I absolutely loved this installment in the series. Each story reveals more and more about the people and their histories. This story really comes to life with Ms. Delacroix's vivid descriptions and wonderful character development. After each story I'm excited to read the next and find out more about the cast of characters. Wonderfully written and filled with enough intrigue and suspense to keep you turning the pages.

The copy was gifted by the Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kathy.
76 reviews
May 26, 2016
The siblings of a disfunctional family each take a turn at falling in love and become the person they want to be instead of the person their father tried to force them to be. These are wonderful love stories with amazing heroes and heroines. Relatable characters you can't help but love. I was given an ARC for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kathy.
76 reviews
March 26, 2016
The knights guarding the St Euphemia reliquary continue their journey but lose the prize to thieves. This book is full of action, adventure and surprises. I do love how Ms Delacroix weaves her stories!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews

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