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The Von Wolfenberg Dynasty #2
Courageous Heart
Lute von Wolfenberg is the carefree middle son of the family with no responsibilities, but no prospects either. Obliged to fight in the army of the Holy Roman Emperor in a foreign war, he struggles to hold on to his sense of humor and optimism amid the betrayals and atrocities of the campaign. He finds himself drawn to Francesca di Cammarata, niece of the Emperor's arch enemy, Roger of Sicily.
She is an arrogant princess brought up in the lap of luxury whose duty lies in thwarting the imperial troops, but she cannot deny her feelings for Lute.
The conflict will test their loyalty to country and family.
She is an arrogant princess brought up in the lap of luxury whose duty lies in thwarting the imperial troops, but she cannot deny her feelings for Lute.
The conflict will test their loyalty to country and family.
- GenresHistorical Romance
270 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 22, 2016
12 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
About the author
Anna Markland
246 books254 followersAnna Markland is a Canadian author with a keen interest in genealogy. She writes historical romance about family honor, ancestry and roots. Her novels are intimate love stories filled with passion and adventure. Following a fruitful career in teaching, Anna transformed her love of writing and history into engaging works of fiction. One of the things she enjoys most about writing historical romance is the in-depth research required to provide the reader with an authentic experience.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
April 30, 2020
Re-Read. - I stand by my review below. The beginning starts out slow, but stay with it.
Lots of names but no worries, it will clear after a few chapters.
Kudos for the history research done by the author.
Original review:
It's hard to find medieval romance with virgin MC's so I was ecstatic to have found this one! It's also free on KU!
-Good balance of history and romance.
-There could have been more details/descriptions.
-Could have used a little more sweetness and sex.
-Decent conflict, and characters were pretty well developed.
-Wished it was longer. Didn't want it to end.
Spoilers/Safety:
Lots of names but no worries, it will clear after a few chapters.
Kudos for the history research done by the author.
Original review:
It's hard to find medieval romance with virgin MC's so I was ecstatic to have found this one! It's also free on KU!
-Good balance of history and romance.
-There could have been more details/descriptions.
-Could have used a little more sweetness and sex.
-Decent conflict, and characters were pretty well developed.
-Wished it was longer. Didn't want it to end.
Spoilers/Safety:
June 10, 2016
Courageous Heart is the fourth book this reviewer has read by Anna Markland. If you like lots of authentic historical details interwoven with fictional characters within a romantic tale, you might want to consider not only this series, but her other previous books, as well. I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again. Ms. Markland does her homework. She’s obviously very knowledgeable about the time period her stories take place.
**spoilers possible**
Though Lute and Francesca’s tale begins on opposites sides of the political table, from the moment their eyes meet, they experience a soul connection that will not be denied. Starting with pretending to be married to someone else to hide her identity as the niece of Lute’s adversary king, these two dance around each other until the truth is revealed and danger and drama unfold around them. Our beautiful heroine finds herself torn between loyalty to her uncle and her growing love for Lute. She wants to somehow stop the inevitable slaughter of Lute and his army when her uncle sends soldiers to lay siege to the castle she is being held. After falling into a trap by an adversary relative, Francesca finds herself traveling with Lute back his homeland. I have to admit, during the journey I felt less engaged. Mainly because the main couple’s romance took a backseat to other events/characters. But not to worry, folks. Once the couple arrive at Lute’s home, despite the death of a dearly beloved family member, this couple is united in marriage and get their HEA.
Title: Courageous Heart, Series: The Von Wolfenberg Dynasty (Book 2), Author: Anna Markland, Pages: 211, stand-alone but part of a series, HEA, some violence, only a couple steamy scenes, virgin hero & heroine, no cheating, no OW/OM drama, no love triangle, German vs Sicilian historical romance, heroine is a healer and neice of a king.
Book 1 – Loyal Heart, Pages: 185 (Sophia & Brandt), 5/3/16
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 2 – Courageous Heart, Pages: 211 (Lute & Francesca), 6/22/16
(This review is based on ARC generously provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion. No compensation was paid to the reviewer nor is there any affiliation between the reviewer and author/publisher.)
**spoilers possible**
Though Lute and Francesca’s tale begins on opposites sides of the political table, from the moment their eyes meet, they experience a soul connection that will not be denied. Starting with pretending to be married to someone else to hide her identity as the niece of Lute’s adversary king, these two dance around each other until the truth is revealed and danger and drama unfold around them. Our beautiful heroine finds herself torn between loyalty to her uncle and her growing love for Lute. She wants to somehow stop the inevitable slaughter of Lute and his army when her uncle sends soldiers to lay siege to the castle she is being held. After falling into a trap by an adversary relative, Francesca finds herself traveling with Lute back his homeland. I have to admit, during the journey I felt less engaged. Mainly because the main couple’s romance took a backseat to other events/characters. But not to worry, folks. Once the couple arrive at Lute’s home, despite the death of a dearly beloved family member, this couple is united in marriage and get their HEA.
Title: Courageous Heart, Series: The Von Wolfenberg Dynasty (Book 2), Author: Anna Markland, Pages: 211, stand-alone but part of a series, HEA, some violence, only a couple steamy scenes, virgin hero & heroine, no cheating, no OW/OM drama, no love triangle, German vs Sicilian historical romance, heroine is a healer and neice of a king.
Book 1 – Loyal Heart, Pages: 185 (Sophia & Brandt), 5/3/16
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 2 – Courageous Heart, Pages: 211 (Lute & Francesca), 6/22/16
(This review is based on ARC generously provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion. No compensation was paid to the reviewer nor is there any affiliation between the reviewer and author/publisher.)
June 22, 2016
Courageous Heart by Anne Markland is #2 in her intriguing "The Von Wolfenberg Dynasty" series, it can be read as a stand alone. See, "Loyal Heart". A mixture of authentic historical details interwoven with fictional characters makes an intriguing and interesting romantic tale. The Von Wolfenberg saga continues with Luke Von Wolfenberg, the middle son of the family. He's the care free, no responsibilities nor any prospects, until he goes off to war between the Silician and Germans. In a foreign land, he meets the sensuous, Francesca di Cammarata, niece of Roger of Sicily, the Emperor's arch enemy. Who has many secrets and deceit she perpetuates upon Luke and his fellow soldiers. Will Luke be able to forgive her or will their passion be able to bring healing and forgiveness? Will they found their HEA, or lose all to country, tragedy, family and a worn torn country?
After Luke, his older brother, his brother-in-law and with Francesca i tow, head home, they find tragedy, along with two joyous arrivals and upcoming nuptials. While, the Von Wolfenberg's world is rocked to their very foundation, they must find a way to carry on their Dynasty.
A well written, but complex Romantic tale with many challenges, struggles, twists and turns, and humans emotions, readers will find themselves caught up in this tidal wave of emotions. Another great addition to "The Von Wolfenberg Dynasty" series. Fans of German and Silican conflict, Historical Fiction, mixed with romance, intrigue, and a bit of suspense, will enjoy Luke and Francesca's story. Pick up a copy for yourself, and find out the fuss.
Received for an honest review from Net Gallery.
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild hot, due to mild violence
Reviewed by: AprilR
After Luke, his older brother, his brother-in-law and with Francesca i tow, head home, they find tragedy, along with two joyous arrivals and upcoming nuptials. While, the Von Wolfenberg's world is rocked to their very foundation, they must find a way to carry on their Dynasty.
A well written, but complex Romantic tale with many challenges, struggles, twists and turns, and humans emotions, readers will find themselves caught up in this tidal wave of emotions. Another great addition to "The Von Wolfenberg Dynasty" series. Fans of German and Silican conflict, Historical Fiction, mixed with romance, intrigue, and a bit of suspense, will enjoy Luke and Francesca's story. Pick up a copy for yourself, and find out the fuss.
Received for an honest review from Net Gallery.
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild hot, due to mild violence
Reviewed by: AprilR
May 16, 2020
A romance and so much more!
This series gets better and better! The good thing is that you need not have read the previous book to fully enjoy this one. The author weaves fiction into actual historic events and it all comes to life. This is Lute and Francesca’s love story, but it’s so much more! His siblings’ romances continue as well as the love story that began it all with his parents relationship, it all makes for wonderful hours of pure reading pleasure!
This series gets better and better! The good thing is that you need not have read the previous book to fully enjoy this one. The author weaves fiction into actual historic events and it all comes to life. This is Lute and Francesca’s love story, but it’s so much more! His siblings’ romances continue as well as the love story that began it all with his parents relationship, it all makes for wonderful hours of pure reading pleasure!
September 22, 2018
Bittersweet
I loved book one and this book was just as good. I love the characters as much as in book one and look forward to book three. There is such conflicting and in this book. There is mostly happiness in this book, yet a few parts (no spoilers) made me tear up.
I loved book one and this book was just as good. I love the characters as much as in book one and look forward to book three. There is such conflicting and in this book. There is mostly happiness in this book, yet a few parts (no spoilers) made me tear up.
February 24, 2019
3 stars. I liked that both characters saved themselves for marriage, very uncommon in romance books. But they didn’t get married until the end! Meanwhile, I had to read about a million characters and a lot of battle prep. Would’ve preferred more focus on romance.
July 27, 2022
Loved it!
I love this story and catching up with the various characters! Can't wait to read the next installment in the series!
I love this story and catching up with the various characters! Can't wait to read the next installment in the series!
June 17, 2016
Courageous Heart by Anne Markland is a remarkable story of Lute von Wolfenberg he is the carefree middle son of Von Wolfenberg Dynasty. He’s lived care free most of his life with no responsibilities or any prospects, but when war between the Sicilian and Germans happens he feels obliged to fight in the army of the Holy Roman Emperor in a foreign war. While fighting in foreign land traveling from Germany to Italy he meets the sensuous, beautiful Francesca di Cammarata who happens to be the niece of Roger of Sicily, the Emperor's arch enemy. Francesca is in the wrong place at the wrong time when the town she has taken shelter in is overrun by her uncle's enemies. She knows she is in danger and tries to keep identity a secret from the Emperor’s men. Francesca knows she needs to thwart the imperial troops, but she cannot deny her feelings for Lute. Despite being on opposite sides Lute knows he should not be attracted to her, he just cannot seem to stay away from her the instant sensual attraction between Francesca and Lute is very strong. Will the sexual tension and conflict test their loyalty to country and family? Francesca has many secrets and deceit she perpetuates upon Luke and his fellow soldiers. Will Luke be able to forgive her and remain loyalty to country and family and find their HEA? Great story I highly recommend this book!!!
I was given an ARC copy from Net Galley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I was given an ARC copy from Net Galley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 23, 2016
This is the second book in Anna Markland's The Von Wolfenberg Dynasty.
This was such an interesting read , with lots of actual facts interwoven with her fictional characters , for me it was a sensational read I totally enjoyed it . Lute is the second son and goes of to war with his half brother Johann and Kon and brother in law Brandt after months of traveling from Germany to Italy they are weary of war and long to go home but they have to comply with orders given by the Holy Roman Emperor . Francesca is the niece of Roger of Sicily she first glimpses Lute on a swim he was having with his comrades. She meets Lute face to face when they come to William of Loritello home , she poses as his wife because she fears for her life . She starts to have feelings for Lute but can't do anything about it , Lute also is intrigued with Francesca but he thinks her a married woman . Things get complicated when they can't keep their attraction from each other. Francesca confides to him of who she really is but she knows there can never be a future between them . There is lots of action in this book , some gruesome fight scenes . Will Lute and Francesca trust to make the right decision even though it goes against the love for her country.
I really enjoyed the history details in this book, Anna Markland really draws you in the time period. I received this book from the author for my honest review
This was such an interesting read , with lots of actual facts interwoven with her fictional characters , for me it was a sensational read I totally enjoyed it . Lute is the second son and goes of to war with his half brother Johann and Kon and brother in law Brandt after months of traveling from Germany to Italy they are weary of war and long to go home but they have to comply with orders given by the Holy Roman Emperor . Francesca is the niece of Roger of Sicily she first glimpses Lute on a swim he was having with his comrades. She meets Lute face to face when they come to William of Loritello home , she poses as his wife because she fears for her life . She starts to have feelings for Lute but can't do anything about it , Lute also is intrigued with Francesca but he thinks her a married woman . Things get complicated when they can't keep their attraction from each other. Francesca confides to him of who she really is but she knows there can never be a future between them . There is lots of action in this book , some gruesome fight scenes . Will Lute and Francesca trust to make the right decision even though it goes against the love for her country.
I really enjoyed the history details in this book, Anna Markland really draws you in the time period. I received this book from the author for my honest review
July 10, 2016
Historical romance especially Highlands and Regency is my preferred genre to read. It was refreshing to read a book with a different setting (Italy and Germany) in a slightly earlier time period (1100's). This is the second in the series and is as good as the first. Some issues from the first book are resolved in this one. However, it does introduce some new ones I am thinking will provide the story in the next book. Luther (Lute), the second son is a soldier for Holy Roman Emperor Lothair along with his brothers and brother-in-law. Emperor Lothair has invaded Italy to stop King Ruggero' s threat to the Vatican Papal lands. His army takes Termoli, the setting for the main part of the book. Here Lute and Francesca meet. Unfortunately they meet as enemies since Francesca is the niece of King Ruggero, although she tries to conceal it. Mutual attraction and love at first sight can not be denied and there in is the telling of the story. I love the way Anna Markland incorporates real life situations into her stories. It gives them a "real" feel. Also she gives a little history lesson at the end, sorting out the facts from the fiction. This attention to detail provides a very nice read. The is a very enjoyable read.
I received this ARC ebook from the author for an honest review and this is an honest review.
I received this ARC ebook from the author for an honest review and this is an honest review.
June 14, 2016
Luther Von Wolfenberg along with his brothers have spent months travelling down from Germany to Italy to claim land in the name of their Holy Roman Emperor . None of them really want to be there but must do their sworn service. Lute has turned out to be a better soldier than he expected and has risen in the ranks.
Francesca di Cammarata is in the wrong place at the wrong time. She has taken shelter in a town that is just going to be over run by her uncle's enemies. She could be in terrible danger if the conquering army find out who she is.
This is a historical adventure romance. It's part of a series (Family saga) but easily read as a stand alone. Our hero is normally a happy go lucky man, but war has made him grow up fast. The woman who is the first to really stir him is one he cannot have. Our heroine is a very brave young woman with a talent for healing that has changed her life more than once.
A fascinating insight into the ways of war, life and death in 1137AD. Our author has a way of making you really relate to her characters and understand the difficulties they face. A really enjoyable read.
Francesca di Cammarata is in the wrong place at the wrong time. She has taken shelter in a town that is just going to be over run by her uncle's enemies. She could be in terrible danger if the conquering army find out who she is.
This is a historical adventure romance. It's part of a series (Family saga) but easily read as a stand alone. Our hero is normally a happy go lucky man, but war has made him grow up fast. The woman who is the first to really stir him is one he cannot have. Our heroine is a very brave young woman with a talent for healing that has changed her life more than once.
A fascinating insight into the ways of war, life and death in 1137AD. Our author has a way of making you really relate to her characters and understand the difficulties they face. A really enjoyable read.
June 24, 2016
OMG, this is book 2 in the Von Wolfenberg Dynasty. I just finished reading this.
This is Lute Von Wolfenberg's story. He is a middle son, a handsome warrior and a very passionate man all around. I loved him. He and his brother's are obligated to fight in war for the emperor. The horrors of war are evident. They conquer a palace and there he meets a beautiful outspoken woman.
Francesca Di Cammarata is overwhelmed with being taken over by their enemy. She tries to keep hidden that she is their enemy's daughter, a princess. She is very arrogant and she has a plan to thwart these imperial soldiers and their efforts to completely conquer. She never thought she would be attracted to one of their leaders.
I truly loved Lute and Francesca's story. It went by so fast for me. It broke my heart for three of the characters. First it was Kon...my heart breaks for what he is going through. Second and third Dieter and Blythe... to imagine all of the heartfelt emotions this talented author conveyed just made me cry.
I thank this author for sharing her gift with me, the reader. I have read every single one of her books. I look forward to Kon's story.
This is Lute Von Wolfenberg's story. He is a middle son, a handsome warrior and a very passionate man all around. I loved him. He and his brother's are obligated to fight in war for the emperor. The horrors of war are evident. They conquer a palace and there he meets a beautiful outspoken woman.
Francesca Di Cammarata is overwhelmed with being taken over by their enemy. She tries to keep hidden that she is their enemy's daughter, a princess. She is very arrogant and she has a plan to thwart these imperial soldiers and their efforts to completely conquer. She never thought she would be attracted to one of their leaders.
I truly loved Lute and Francesca's story. It went by so fast for me. It broke my heart for three of the characters. First it was Kon...my heart breaks for what he is going through. Second and third Dieter and Blythe... to imagine all of the heartfelt emotions this talented author conveyed just made me cry.
I thank this author for sharing her gift with me, the reader. I have read every single one of her books. I look forward to Kon's story.
June 28, 2016
Riveting story of love, war, honor and faithfulness
This story of Rute and Francesca vividly points out how war and circumstance often affect the lives of those personally involved as well as those around them. Beliefs and value systems are often called into question and many change, such as those in The Courageous Heart. I love that parts of the story were based on fact, and explained at the end of the story. You can tell that an extensive amount of research went into writing this book. I feel I have learned a vast amount of knowledge previously unknown to me even though I have a strong affinity for History. This is a very well written book that pulls you in from the beginning and never lets go. I didn't want to put it down even when time came for me to do other things. If you have not read Book 1 of this series, I would suggest you read it first, and then this one. I look forward eagerly to reading Book 3! I would easily recommend this book/series to any of my friends. It's a true love story, without the distraction of graphic violence or explicit sex. I thoroughly enjoyed this read!
This story of Rute and Francesca vividly points out how war and circumstance often affect the lives of those personally involved as well as those around them. Beliefs and value systems are often called into question and many change, such as those in The Courageous Heart. I love that parts of the story were based on fact, and explained at the end of the story. You can tell that an extensive amount of research went into writing this book. I feel I have learned a vast amount of knowledge previously unknown to me even though I have a strong affinity for History. This is a very well written book that pulls you in from the beginning and never lets go. I didn't want to put it down even when time came for me to do other things. If you have not read Book 1 of this series, I would suggest you read it first, and then this one. I look forward eagerly to reading Book 3! I would easily recommend this book/series to any of my friends. It's a true love story, without the distraction of graphic violence or explicit sex. I thoroughly enjoyed this read!
September 10, 2016
4.5/5.0
War is always an interesting starting point for a romance and Ms. Markland does a tremendous job of sparking a conflicted connection between her characters.
Read full review in the 2016 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
War is always an interesting starting point for a romance and Ms. Markland does a tremendous job of sparking a conflicted connection between her characters.
Read full review in the 2016 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
June 15, 2016
Excellent book. Sequel to Loyal Heart. This is about Lute von Wolfenberg, son of Dieter and Blythe. He is fighting in Italy with his two brothers Johann and Kon and his brother-in-law Brandt for The Holy Roman Emperor Lothair. He meets Francesca a spoiled rich young woman and they eventually fall in love. They embark on a dangerous journey back to Lute's homeland where she meets Lute's parents and his sister Sophia who is married to Brandt from Loyal Heart. Anna Markland has certainly done her research for this European era. This is an exciting book with two nice strong characters. The book does contain some sadness near to the end which I was not expecting. I hope the next book is about Kon, younger brother of Lute. I received this book free in exchange for a honest review.
Read
September 12, 2016Courageous Heart is the second book in Anna Markland’s Von Wolfenberg Dynasty. As with other books by Ms. Markland, the historical background is rich and nicely interwoven with the story of her protagonists – one thing I do appreciate immensely, historical novels being my first love.
This is a great continuation for her Von Wolfenberg Dynasty. Well-defined and engaging characters, an interesting plot with twists and turns – what more can a reader ask?
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a great continuation for her Von Wolfenberg Dynasty. Well-defined and engaging characters, an interesting plot with twists and turns – what more can a reader ask?
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 6, 2016
Lothair (Lute) is the middle son of a Frankish count. He has come with the Empirical Army to Italy to stop the takeover by the Italian King Ruggero. Francesca is the niece of King Ruggero, and, as such, Lute is her enemy. The story was very intriguing, and the twists and turns of the relationship between Lute and Francesca was very interesting. I enjoyed this book very much.
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2016
This is an interesting story at first, this is the story of the second son of Dieter von Wolfenberg Lute who march to go to war with his brother and brother by marriage and Franchesca who is a princess. At first I didn't liked the character of the heroine but along the way it changes. I loved how the author spin the story of these two, lots of twist and turn and unexpected events that makes you feel like an observer of the real life poeple. Highly recommended!
Can't wait for the story of Kon!
Can't wait for the story of Kon!
December 12, 2016
Courageous Heart fair enough to foinish the series.
This series s OK but the ending leaves the reader hanging. I will read the next book to decide if the series deserves a better rating. I hate books that leave the reader hanging from a cliff. Hopefully I will not encounter any more of this type of book. I would not read any more of this arthur without reading the ending first..
This series s OK but the ending leaves the reader hanging. I will read the next book to decide if the series deserves a better rating. I hate books that leave the reader hanging from a cliff. Hopefully I will not encounter any more of this type of book. I would not read any more of this arthur without reading the ending first..
July 3, 2016
Lute is the second son of the von Wolfenberg family who fights in the army of the Holy Roman Emperor and finds Francesca, who is destined to be his love. Their love has to survive intrigue and war to thrive. This author breathes life into tales from times long ago. Enjoying reading about this family.
Ebook from netgalley and publishers with thanks.
Ebook from netgalley and publishers with thanks.
July 4, 2016
Lute is a carefree, fun loving individual in the family. Being the middle son, his father believes he is not one for war because of his sense of humor. It is by happenstance Lute meets the beautiful Francesca who happens to be the enemy. Will their love survive or will the war destroy both of them. A delightful read.
June 11, 2016
Despite being on opposite sides, the instant attraction between Francesca and Lute is strong. They see no way around the circumstances until danger and death make them see the true strength of their love. I really enjoyed this story and recommend it.
June 23, 2016
If you love period books where historical accuracy blends well with the fictional characters this is a story for you. This is the first time I've read work of Ms. Makland and I'm really looking forward to reading more.
November 1, 2016
Lute & Francesca
This was a close knit family. Closer than most. The parents gave the knowledge of love and life to their children. Pranks and devilish fun was enjoyed amongst the siblings and the in-laws. Not the most exciting book but I will read the third in this series.
This was a close knit family. Closer than most. The parents gave the knowledge of love and life to their children. Pranks and devilish fun was enjoyed amongst the siblings and the in-laws. Not the most exciting book but I will read the third in this series.
November 10, 2016
Wonderful story!
Love, mystery, war, betray, this one has it all, and best of all a happily ever after. Loved reading about the German knights and some of their history. Great book!
Love, mystery, war, betray, this one has it all, and best of all a happily ever after. Loved reading about the German knights and some of their history. Great book!
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews