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Dark Heart
Can love survive a dark heart?
Rome, 235 A.D.
A series of ritual murders of young boys recalls memories of Rome’s most wicked emperor. Magistrate Marcus Cornelius Drusus has discovered the cult extends to the very heart of Roman society.
Despite his personal wealth and authority, Marcus is a slave to his past – conflicted by his status as an adopted son, bitterly betrayed by his wife and forced to give up his child.
Kyna knows all about betrayal. Sold into slavery by her husband to pay a gambling debt, she found herself in Rome, far from her home in Britannia. Bought by a doctor, she is taught his trade and is about to gain her freedom when her mentor is murdered by the cult.
When the same group makes an attempt on her life, Kyna is forced to give up her freedom and accept Marcus’ protection. With no one to trust but each other, mutual attraction ignites into passion.But how far will Marcus go for vengeance when he learns the cult’s next victim is his son?
Can the woman who is free in her heart heal the man who is a slave in his?
Rome, 235 A.D.
A series of ritual murders of young boys recalls memories of Rome’s most wicked emperor. Magistrate Marcus Cornelius Drusus has discovered the cult extends to the very heart of Roman society.
Despite his personal wealth and authority, Marcus is a slave to his past – conflicted by his status as an adopted son, bitterly betrayed by his wife and forced to give up his child.
Kyna knows all about betrayal. Sold into slavery by her husband to pay a gambling debt, she found herself in Rome, far from her home in Britannia. Bought by a doctor, she is taught his trade and is about to gain her freedom when her mentor is murdered by the cult.
When the same group makes an attempt on her life, Kyna is forced to give up her freedom and accept Marcus’ protection. With no one to trust but each other, mutual attraction ignites into passion.But how far will Marcus go for vengeance when he learns the cult’s next victim is his son?
Can the woman who is free in her heart heal the man who is a slave in his?
339 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 12, 2017
226 people are currently reading
315 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Ellen Carter
59 books354 followersUSA Today bestselling author Elizabeth Ellen Carter is an award-winning historical romance writer who pens richly detailed historical romantic adventures. A former newspaper journalist, Carter ran an award-winning PR agency for 12 years. She lives in Australia.
On the publication of her debut novel in 2013, Carter was heralded by critics as ‘a writer worth keeping an eye on’ with a style reminiscent of classic suspense novelist Daphne du Maurier. This impression has been borne out in her subsequent work.
Her full-length novels frequently feature psychologically complex relations between the central characters and often delve into dark themes.
Nonetheless, she also occasionally turns her hand to sweet romance (always with a touch of adventure) suitable for younger readers as well as older fans looking for a change of pace.
Elizabeth Ellen Carter’s full-length titles and several novellas have been published by Dragonblade Publishing since 2017. She also regularly contributes to various multi-author anthologies and is a member of The Bluestocking Belles group of Regency romance authors.
On the publication of her debut novel in 2013, Carter was heralded by critics as ‘a writer worth keeping an eye on’ with a style reminiscent of classic suspense novelist Daphne du Maurier. This impression has been borne out in her subsequent work.
Her full-length novels frequently feature psychologically complex relations between the central characters and often delve into dark themes.
Nonetheless, she also occasionally turns her hand to sweet romance (always with a touch of adventure) suitable for younger readers as well as older fans looking for a change of pace.
Elizabeth Ellen Carter’s full-length titles and several novellas have been published by Dragonblade Publishing since 2017. She also regularly contributes to various multi-author anthologies and is a member of The Bluestocking Belles group of Regency romance authors.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
August 29, 2018
Alienist meets Caligula
Several existing reviews do a good job of summarizing the unique time period (Roman times as early Christianity is gaining a foothold), and the stellar suspense theme. I will not restate them here. However, I will give some impressions.
I felt a bit like this was an Alienist theme, dipped into a new and different time period. There is a smart, cunning main male character, Marcus, whose is a blend between town sheriff and judge. As magistrate for Rome, he commands a "police" force and passes judgments, but also has a duty to investigate the gruesome deaths of young boys. The beginning, with the murder of his physician accomplice, grabs you right from the start. It also sets up the second main character, Kyna, the physician's slave, who has been taught to practice medicine alongside her mentor. She is beautiful and smart and centered. Her Christianity, and the practice of good, are a core part of the story. It is juxtaposed with the decadence of Rome. It makes for a very interesting read on many levels.
My enjoyment of this book, however, was a little tainted by the execution. The story winds a little too long in places, there are too many coincidences, and I had difficulty feeling the intensity of the budding romance between Marcus and Kyna. I also had a bit of difficulty grasping the intent of the cult and the purpose behind the torture and sacrifice of the boys. I needed a real reason besides the depravity, especially since the cult was quite sizable. These are the reasons this book stayed in the four star instead of five star range for me.
However, the emotion and connection between Marcus and Kyna grows throughout the book. They are devoted to each other and their cause, despite the harrowing circumstances. The book gets high marks for complexity and excellent research, while still providing the steam. If you are looking for a suspense filled mystery that has many facets in a unique historical setting, I definitely recommend this book. This is NOT your run-of-the-mill, entertaining, yet forgettable historical romance.
Book source: Purchased but currently available on Kindle Unlimited
Several existing reviews do a good job of summarizing the unique time period (Roman times as early Christianity is gaining a foothold), and the stellar suspense theme. I will not restate them here. However, I will give some impressions.
I felt a bit like this was an Alienist theme, dipped into a new and different time period. There is a smart, cunning main male character, Marcus, whose is a blend between town sheriff and judge. As magistrate for Rome, he commands a "police" force and passes judgments, but also has a duty to investigate the gruesome deaths of young boys. The beginning, with the murder of his physician accomplice, grabs you right from the start. It also sets up the second main character, Kyna, the physician's slave, who has been taught to practice medicine alongside her mentor. She is beautiful and smart and centered. Her Christianity, and the practice of good, are a core part of the story. It is juxtaposed with the decadence of Rome. It makes for a very interesting read on many levels.
My enjoyment of this book, however, was a little tainted by the execution. The story winds a little too long in places, there are too many coincidences, and I had difficulty feeling the intensity of the budding romance between Marcus and Kyna. I also had a bit of difficulty grasping the intent of the cult and the purpose behind the torture and sacrifice of the boys. I needed a real reason besides the depravity, especially since the cult was quite sizable. These are the reasons this book stayed in the four star instead of five star range for me.
However, the emotion and connection between Marcus and Kyna grows throughout the book. They are devoted to each other and their cause, despite the harrowing circumstances. The book gets high marks for complexity and excellent research, while still providing the steam. If you are looking for a suspense filled mystery that has many facets in a unique historical setting, I definitely recommend this book. This is NOT your run-of-the-mill, entertaining, yet forgettable historical romance.
Book source: Purchased but currently available on Kindle Unlimited
May 12, 2017
The cover is mesmerizing and that, in and of itself, urged me to step into the world Author Elizabeth Ellen Carter pens.
This is not my normal read, although I am a historical fiction reader. That said, it held lots of what I’d like to see in a story--an in-depth social understanding of the times. I haven’t read this author before. The story is more than a romance. It is a story where man and woman face their greatest fears, propelled to succeed in their search for justice in an epoch where seldom we think.
It is set in a time I don’t often find stories. I like how the author used words rarely used and I had to look them up. It helped authenticate the setting.
The story takes place in biblical times when the insurgence of a new religion, Christianity, put Rome on edge. Another insurgence of a cult, Elagabalus, the holy sun god, stretches its evil fingers throughout the Roman Empire, preying on young boys. Their main object is power, pure and simple. They want control of the Empire, these clever men, but they are cautious and difficult to catch. Each man is held to the other’s secrets through blackmail.
Marcus Cornelius Drusus, praetor of Rome and magistrate, has a past he rather dismiss. Yet, it helps the reader understand who the man is. His role now in Rome is to find justice for those who are wronged. This is a time where slaves are given their freedom, or not, and evil roams the land demanding control of the people and their minds.
Kyna, sold into slavery by her husband to pay a gambling debt, was purchased by Philomen, a man of Medicine. He needs a servant to help run his home, however finds Kyna full of intelligence and interested in his trade. The relationship changes from slave to that of apprentice. And from apprentice to that of a daughter.
When Philomen is brutally killed in his surgical room, the slaves are devastated, because they love him. He was a very good man. Marcus Cornelius Drusus is called in to investigate the murder. Kyna is drawn into the investigation as a possible suspect. Soon Marcus’s determination to eradicate this cult and the respect, admiration, and eventual deep love of Kyna forges a bond of strength so powerful evil quakes.
This story’s main focus isn’t one of romance. It is more suspense, delving into faith, and facing the fate which awaits you. There is a purpose to everything under heaven. Yes, the story has a dark side. It exposes the underbelly of religious hedonists. It also gives me an appreciation of this time in history. Quite a riveting read and one I would suggest to those who enjoy history with all its turmoil and horror.
Received an advance copy from the publisher for a fair review.
This is not my normal read, although I am a historical fiction reader. That said, it held lots of what I’d like to see in a story--an in-depth social understanding of the times. I haven’t read this author before. The story is more than a romance. It is a story where man and woman face their greatest fears, propelled to succeed in their search for justice in an epoch where seldom we think.
It is set in a time I don’t often find stories. I like how the author used words rarely used and I had to look them up. It helped authenticate the setting.
The story takes place in biblical times when the insurgence of a new religion, Christianity, put Rome on edge. Another insurgence of a cult, Elagabalus, the holy sun god, stretches its evil fingers throughout the Roman Empire, preying on young boys. Their main object is power, pure and simple. They want control of the Empire, these clever men, but they are cautious and difficult to catch. Each man is held to the other’s secrets through blackmail.
Marcus Cornelius Drusus, praetor of Rome and magistrate, has a past he rather dismiss. Yet, it helps the reader understand who the man is. His role now in Rome is to find justice for those who are wronged. This is a time where slaves are given their freedom, or not, and evil roams the land demanding control of the people and their minds.
Kyna, sold into slavery by her husband to pay a gambling debt, was purchased by Philomen, a man of Medicine. He needs a servant to help run his home, however finds Kyna full of intelligence and interested in his trade. The relationship changes from slave to that of apprentice. And from apprentice to that of a daughter.
When Philomen is brutally killed in his surgical room, the slaves are devastated, because they love him. He was a very good man. Marcus Cornelius Drusus is called in to investigate the murder. Kyna is drawn into the investigation as a possible suspect. Soon Marcus’s determination to eradicate this cult and the respect, admiration, and eventual deep love of Kyna forges a bond of strength so powerful evil quakes.
This story’s main focus isn’t one of romance. It is more suspense, delving into faith, and facing the fate which awaits you. There is a purpose to everything under heaven. Yes, the story has a dark side. It exposes the underbelly of religious hedonists. It also gives me an appreciation of this time in history. Quite a riveting read and one I would suggest to those who enjoy history with all its turmoil and horror.
Received an advance copy from the publisher for a fair review.
September 9, 2017
A beautifully written, powerful story, "Dark Heart" is a richly woven tapestry of events.
Read full review in the 2017 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2017 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
May 23, 2017
I grew up on epics set in ancient Rome and have never lost my affection for them. However, I've been disappointed more than once in recent years. Dark Heart did not disappoint. This is a good one folks.
Marcus, the hero—smart, strong, and honorable—is complex enough to be interesting. tortured enough to draw you in, and generous enough to love. Kyna, the heroine—stubborn, determined, and loyal—has her own internal battles to fight. Both are appealing and easy to root for.
The villains are heinous, the action is vivid, the plot is appropriate to the era and utterly believable, and the resolution satisfying. What more can a reader want?
There are some religious elements in the story. They are handled with a light touch and are also appropriate to the era. They enrich the story.
Highly Recommended.
Marcus, the hero—smart, strong, and honorable—is complex enough to be interesting. tortured enough to draw you in, and generous enough to love. Kyna, the heroine—stubborn, determined, and loyal—has her own internal battles to fight. Both are appealing and easy to root for.
The villains are heinous, the action is vivid, the plot is appropriate to the era and utterly believable, and the resolution satisfying. What more can a reader want?
There are some religious elements in the story. They are handled with a light touch and are also appropriate to the era. They enrich the story.
Highly Recommended.
January 1, 2018
It shouldn't surprise me how much I liked this. I've read Elizabeth Ellen Carter before and she writes a cracking story, and I love Gladiator, and books set in and around those Ancient Roman times - so this book ticked a lot of boxes for me before I even started reading.
Always I know on picking up an EE Carter book - the research will be impeccable. I enter her stories with complete trust that terms used, clothing, culture, language - will all be appropriate for the time and the book. Truth be told - it wouldn't overly worry me anyway - it's not like I'm an expert in how ships were used in Roman times, so I'd hardly pick up the fault. (I do like the confidence she instills, however!)
Kyna was a wonderful heroine - a Medicae (doctor/medic) sold into slavery by her husband to pay gambling debts. While her backstory is heart-rending (she was only 14), it is introduced early in the book and then not prolonged or pushed, so it stays where backstory should - in the background.
Marcus too is a great, strong character for the hero. The magistrate of Rome with his own troubles in the past - all of which he's already overcome, bar the treachery of his wife and loss of his Son.
There is a whole heap of family, religious and political intrigue ala Gladiator, a great fight between good and evil in a religious context, and certainly challenges galore for these two as they find love and save young boys in Rome from a hideous fate at the hands of an emerging cult.
A quick mention of the medicinal herbs discussed in the book as treatments Kyna uses for common ailments at the time - I'm always interested in this sort of thing, and again it felt well-researched and well done.
I was glued to the pages from start to finish, and highly recommend the read for lovers of historic fiction who don't mind a darker, gruesome context.
Always I know on picking up an EE Carter book - the research will be impeccable. I enter her stories with complete trust that terms used, clothing, culture, language - will all be appropriate for the time and the book. Truth be told - it wouldn't overly worry me anyway - it's not like I'm an expert in how ships were used in Roman times, so I'd hardly pick up the fault. (I do like the confidence she instills, however!)
Kyna was a wonderful heroine - a Medicae (doctor/medic) sold into slavery by her husband to pay gambling debts. While her backstory is heart-rending (she was only 14), it is introduced early in the book and then not prolonged or pushed, so it stays where backstory should - in the background.
Marcus too is a great, strong character for the hero. The magistrate of Rome with his own troubles in the past - all of which he's already overcome, bar the treachery of his wife and loss of his Son.
There is a whole heap of family, religious and political intrigue ala Gladiator, a great fight between good and evil in a religious context, and certainly challenges galore for these two as they find love and save young boys in Rome from a hideous fate at the hands of an emerging cult.
A quick mention of the medicinal herbs discussed in the book as treatments Kyna uses for common ailments at the time - I'm always interested in this sort of thing, and again it felt well-researched and well done.
I was glued to the pages from start to finish, and highly recommend the read for lovers of historic fiction who don't mind a darker, gruesome context.
November 28, 2017
Marcus and Kyna
Very interesting setting (circa 230 AD Rome) and story. I have never read a story set during this period. I found it to be more brutal and violent than my personal taste.
I did appreciate the level of research in the story and the many references to the early Christian congregation. This book was very well written.
Marcus was an admirable hero. He was written with a very noble character and I could not help but to root for him. His investigations; however, led to much death and destruction. I had to take frequent breaks in reading because of the heavy subject matter.
Kyna was an interesting subject. A medicae (physician) by trade, she was a great heroine. I found that her attraction to Marcus was portrayed realistically.
The antagonists in this work were diabolical. Their crimes were disgusting and cruel. It always seemed that they had the upper hand and would defeat the protagonists all the way to the end. They outnumbered the good guys and they were unrelenting.
So... here's the hard part. This book is not in my taste, but if you like and crave blood and gore, as well as action packed harrowing adventure in your romance novels, you will love this story.
Very interesting setting (circa 230 AD Rome) and story. I have never read a story set during this period. I found it to be more brutal and violent than my personal taste.
I did appreciate the level of research in the story and the many references to the early Christian congregation. This book was very well written.
Marcus was an admirable hero. He was written with a very noble character and I could not help but to root for him. His investigations; however, led to much death and destruction. I had to take frequent breaks in reading because of the heavy subject matter.
Kyna was an interesting subject. A medicae (physician) by trade, she was a great heroine. I found that her attraction to Marcus was portrayed realistically.
The antagonists in this work were diabolical. Their crimes were disgusting and cruel. It always seemed that they had the upper hand and would defeat the protagonists all the way to the end. They outnumbered the good guys and they were unrelenting.
So... here's the hard part. This book is not in my taste, but if you like and crave blood and gore, as well as action packed harrowing adventure in your romance novels, you will love this story.
May 12, 2017
**This story is definitely worth more than 5 stars!**
This is a romance story filled with mystery, suspense, betrayal and Intrigue throughout while weaving a tale of Love that keeps the reader captivated. I really loved it!
This is the first time I have read a story by this author. In addition, this genre of the Roman/Germanic Empire had not been of interest to me before...until now. I am truly impressed with this author and the story. I was mentally transported to Rome 234 AD.
This is a story of a man who is a well-respected magistrate in Rome. During this period of time, there is intrigue all around and Marcus has been called out to investigate a murder of a well known doctor. To his surprise, during interviews of the household staff, he meets a slave. She is the apprentice of the murdered doctor. A beautiful woman who he must have secretly help him.
This is not your typical love story. There are murders going on. Young boys have been disappearing and some found murdered. A vicious cult wants to ensure their activities continue without interruption. Marcus is on a mission to stop them. While all this is happening, a painful past reappears while love is blooming.
Kyna meets Marcus when he arrives to investigate her master/mentor's murder. There is something that attracts and frightens her about him. When he asks for her help secretly, she feels she cannot refuse him.
This romance develops very well! It has an excellent pace to it. Dark Heart is a very, very, very good book. It felt like I was watching a great movie. I could visualize everything in my mind. I am very happy I took a chance on this author and I now look forward to what she will write next. This story is a keeper for me! It is one of the best books I have read.
This is a romance story filled with mystery, suspense, betrayal and Intrigue throughout while weaving a tale of Love that keeps the reader captivated. I really loved it!
This is the first time I have read a story by this author. In addition, this genre of the Roman/Germanic Empire had not been of interest to me before...until now. I am truly impressed with this author and the story. I was mentally transported to Rome 234 AD.
This is a story of a man who is a well-respected magistrate in Rome. During this period of time, there is intrigue all around and Marcus has been called out to investigate a murder of a well known doctor. To his surprise, during interviews of the household staff, he meets a slave. She is the apprentice of the murdered doctor. A beautiful woman who he must have secretly help him.
This is not your typical love story. There are murders going on. Young boys have been disappearing and some found murdered. A vicious cult wants to ensure their activities continue without interruption. Marcus is on a mission to stop them. While all this is happening, a painful past reappears while love is blooming.
Kyna meets Marcus when he arrives to investigate her master/mentor's murder. There is something that attracts and frightens her about him. When he asks for her help secretly, she feels she cannot refuse him.
This romance develops very well! It has an excellent pace to it. Dark Heart is a very, very, very good book. It felt like I was watching a great movie. I could visualize everything in my mind. I am very happy I took a chance on this author and I now look forward to what she will write next. This story is a keeper for me! It is one of the best books I have read.
May 15, 2017
I don‘t read as much historical romance as contemporary romance, but when I found out about this story set in ancient Rome and read some interesting snippets on Facebook, I knew I had to buy it. And I’m glad I did, for I fell in love with it.
I studied Latin at high school, so some of the things and people mentioned in the book resonated with me. I admire the way the author mixed facts with fiction. There’s just the right amount of research to make the scenes and time come alive without confusing the reader. Be it clothes, food, buildings and behavior or manners of speaking, everything seemed authentic and captivating, transporting me to far-away centuries of turmoil.
The characters are just as mesmerizing. Magistrate Maris and Medicae Kyna caught my interest straight away and grew more and more complex and interesting throughout the book. They come with burdened pasts, hurt feelings and hidden strengths, and thus theirs is much more than just a love story.
I can highly recommend ‘Dark Heart’ to fans of historical fiction, three-dimensional characters and a healthy dose of intrigue and suspense.
I studied Latin at high school, so some of the things and people mentioned in the book resonated with me. I admire the way the author mixed facts with fiction. There’s just the right amount of research to make the scenes and time come alive without confusing the reader. Be it clothes, food, buildings and behavior or manners of speaking, everything seemed authentic and captivating, transporting me to far-away centuries of turmoil.
The characters are just as mesmerizing. Magistrate Maris and Medicae Kyna caught my interest straight away and grew more and more complex and interesting throughout the book. They come with burdened pasts, hurt feelings and hidden strengths, and thus theirs is much more than just a love story.
I can highly recommend ‘Dark Heart’ to fans of historical fiction, three-dimensional characters and a healthy dose of intrigue and suspense.
February 7, 2018
Outstanding
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. Well written historically. Just the right of romance that doesn't take away from the story line.
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. Well written historically. Just the right of romance that doesn't take away from the story line.
May 13, 2017
Dark Heart is darkly delicious....
I read the book ' Dark Heart, expecting some intrigue simply from the title, but wow- it's one of those stories that grabs you and doesn't let go. The story takes place in ancient Rome after the death of Caesar. Marcus is a magistrate investigating a series of murders of young boys that may be connected to a cult. Kyna is a slave , sold into slavery by her husband years before, but who was lucky enough to have found a benevolent master who trained her as a doctor. The two characters meet as as a result of the death of a mutual acquaintance, and their attraction to each other is strong.
The plot has interesting characters, some are quite sinister, and the plot twists and flows along bringing the reader through a story that pulled this reader in from start to finish.
This is the first book I have read by this author but I look forward to more as it was terrific!
I read the book ' Dark Heart, expecting some intrigue simply from the title, but wow- it's one of those stories that grabs you and doesn't let go. The story takes place in ancient Rome after the death of Caesar. Marcus is a magistrate investigating a series of murders of young boys that may be connected to a cult. Kyna is a slave , sold into slavery by her husband years before, but who was lucky enough to have found a benevolent master who trained her as a doctor. The two characters meet as as a result of the death of a mutual acquaintance, and their attraction to each other is strong.
The plot has interesting characters, some are quite sinister, and the plot twists and flows along bringing the reader through a story that pulled this reader in from start to finish.
This is the first book I have read by this author but I look forward to more as it was terrific!
May 13, 2017
Set in the time of the Roman Empire, DARK HEART delivers a romance with mystery and history lesson. As advanced as the Romans were, as a civilization, they were also very superstitious and this leads to a thrilling storyline. We are reconnected with many names in history and a bit of the treachery of that era.
Our heroine was an extremely brave woman. A healer and a Christian-set in a time that was not conducive to either. Our hero was very troubled, but so honorable!
The twists are very unexpected, but blend well in the telling of the fascinating romance.
Our heroine was an extremely brave woman. A healer and a Christian-set in a time that was not conducive to either. Our hero was very troubled, but so honorable!
The twists are very unexpected, but blend well in the telling of the fascinating romance.
Read
July 22, 2017It’s been quite a while since I’ve read a historical novel set in ancient times – the last one was Francine River’s excellent ‘Mark of the Lion’ series. ‘Dark Heart’ by Elizabeth Ellen Carter is another riveting read.
When offered the chance to read an early copy of ‘Dark Heart’ I jumped at it – partly because of the intriguing premise, partly because I wanted to sample Elizabeth’s writing, and yes, partly because of the fabulous cover (call me shallow ).
I really enjoyed this novel. I loved the blend of historic fact and fiction, I enjoyed the slow build up of romantic tension, I loved the seamless interweaving of references to Cicero, Ovid, etc. Most of all I loved the natural presentation of faith, how a new believer and a man searching for ultimate truth were able to find answers beyond the mystery that anchors this story. I found the use of Bible verses very effective, appropriate and palatable for a readership not strictly Christian. Don’t get me wrong: ‘Dark Heart’ has plenty of sensuality, but it’s balanced with tenderness and a sense of honouring each other. Evocative descriptions really helped recreate 3rd century Rome, so that it’s apparent Elizabeth has done her research.
When offered the chance to read an early copy of ‘Dark Heart’ I jumped at it – partly because of the intriguing premise, partly because I wanted to sample Elizabeth’s writing, and yes, partly because of the fabulous cover (call me shallow ).
I really enjoyed this novel. I loved the blend of historic fact and fiction, I enjoyed the slow build up of romantic tension, I loved the seamless interweaving of references to Cicero, Ovid, etc. Most of all I loved the natural presentation of faith, how a new believer and a man searching for ultimate truth were able to find answers beyond the mystery that anchors this story. I found the use of Bible verses very effective, appropriate and palatable for a readership not strictly Christian. Don’t get me wrong: ‘Dark Heart’ has plenty of sensuality, but it’s balanced with tenderness and a sense of honouring each other. Evocative descriptions really helped recreate 3rd century Rome, so that it’s apparent Elizabeth has done her research.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2017
Great Bo
Excellent book to read.!! Kyna was sold by her husband to pay a debt that he owed. Her new master was a doctor and he taught Kyna how to be doctor. Bad things were happening in Rome, the doctor is murdered, young boys have been found murdered.
Marcus is the Magistrate and will work on finding the person who killed the doctor and the young boys.
I highly recommend that you read this book! There is so much more that happens!!
Excellent book to read.!! Kyna was sold by her husband to pay a debt that he owed. Her new master was a doctor and he taught Kyna how to be doctor. Bad things were happening in Rome, the doctor is murdered, young boys have been found murdered.
Marcus is the Magistrate and will work on finding the person who killed the doctor and the young boys.
I highly recommend that you read this book! There is so much more that happens!!
October 26, 2017
Set in 3d century Rome, Magistrate Marcus Cornelius Drusus becomes involved with slave Kyna, a medical assistant, to solve a series of murders of young boys. Marcus suspects that a cult he had encountered years ago, is responsible for the murders. Both Marcus and Kyna are outsiders in Roman society--Marcus, the son of a Jewish slave, is the adopted son of a Roman patrician; Kyna is a kidnapped Britain sold into slavery and bought by a Roman doctor, who trains her in medicine. Together they face murder, betrayals, and the treacherousness of Roman politics to resolve the crimes. Be warned--there is violence and child abuse.
December 6, 2017
FABULOUS
This book is awesome to the max and I totally fell in love with the character a and the time in shortly that this book takes place in. I will earn you though there are a couple different chapters that get very r rated a little later in the book, but if it makes you uncomfortable, you can just skip that chapter as there's usually nothing important in them plot wise. I would very much recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction and romance as much as I do😍
This book is awesome to the max and I totally fell in love with the character a and the time in shortly that this book takes place in. I will earn you though there are a couple different chapters that get very r rated a little later in the book, but if it makes you uncomfortable, you can just skip that chapter as there's usually nothing important in them plot wise. I would very much recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction and romance as much as I do😍
December 29, 2020
I'm sorry to go against the grain with this one, but I couldn't make myself care for Kyna or Marcus. I could tell that the novel was well researched, but the Christian theme wore on me since I was not expecting it and I wouldn't have picked up the book if I had realised it would be there.
The mystery wasn't enough to keep me interested, since so much time is spent trying to build the comparison between the decadent and ultimately destructive ways of the Romans compared to the infinitely more close-knit and valuable Christian society emerging 🤮
Thank you but no thank you. Wishing the author the best of luck, and the same to anyone who enjoys this. I did not.
The mystery wasn't enough to keep me interested, since so much time is spent trying to build the comparison between the decadent and ultimately destructive ways of the Romans compared to the infinitely more close-knit and valuable Christian society emerging 🤮
Thank you but no thank you. Wishing the author the best of luck, and the same to anyone who enjoys this. I did not.
August 4, 2017
Gripping story, strong and very real characters battling insecurities and fears, and superbly detailed setting. This is a story that deserves a broad audience. It's beautifully written and breathes life into the past, and kept me reading into the small hours. Highly recommended. And if you don't often read historical fiction, do yourself a favour and read this one. It draws you in, and won't let go until you turn the last page.
January 3, 2021
Good to great
This was a historical romance, about 230 AD.
Marcus was a magistrate.
June was a doctor (medicae)
There was suspense, mystery, murder, kidnapping, and slavery.
It has some twist and turns.
I loved the romance between Kyna and Marcus.
I really wanted them to make it, to last.
See what happens.
This was a historical romance, about 230 AD.
Marcus was a magistrate.
June was a doctor (medicae)
There was suspense, mystery, murder, kidnapping, and slavery.
It has some twist and turns.
I loved the romance between Kyna and Marcus.
I really wanted them to make it, to last.
See what happens.
November 30, 2017
A tale of Rome
I love books that tell a tale and this one does. It's a story of a slave and Roman magistrate and takes on a journey thro Rome .It includes witch craft and satanic sacrifices but also a great love story. I hope you enjoy it has much has l did.
I love books that tell a tale and this one does. It's a story of a slave and Roman magistrate and takes on a journey thro Rome .It includes witch craft and satanic sacrifices but also a great love story. I hope you enjoy it has much has l did.
December 2, 2017
Interesting
A romance that brought together two people of very different backgrounds. It was a well written story with many interesting facts dispersed throughout. The first I’ve read by this author, very enjoyable and recommended.
A romance that brought together two people of very different backgrounds. It was a well written story with many interesting facts dispersed throughout. The first I’ve read by this author, very enjoyable and recommended.
December 10, 2017
Good.
The reason for the rating is that the story was way too long. I started to speed read through because I started losing interest and just wanted to get to the end. I'm not interested in reading another story by this author.
The reason for the rating is that the story was way too long. I started to speed read through because I started losing interest and just wanted to get to the end. I'm not interested in reading another story by this author.
December 24, 2017
Interesting and sweet
The storyline is interesting and keeps the reader engaged. I liked the descriptions of ancient places and that she included lots of quotes from ancient texts to give it a real Roman flavor.
The storyline is interesting and keeps the reader engaged. I liked the descriptions of ancient places and that she included lots of quotes from ancient texts to give it a real Roman flavor.
January 15, 2018
A fascinating tale of the early Christians fighting against an ancient cult that sacrificed young boys, and of an unlikely romance between a slave and a magistrate. Like being there to experience the events oneself.
March 17, 2018
Choose life
This is a story of how the human heart and spirit can endure and gain freedom to love and be loved. The setting in Roman times lends adventure and interest to the storyline.
This is a story of how the human heart and spirit can endure and gain freedom to love and be loved. The setting in Roman times lends adventure and interest to the storyline.
June 9, 2018
A fantastic historical romance capturing the essence of the period. Elizabeth Ellen Carter's Dark Heart is a spellbinding romance at the same time as it tackles important social issues which have presidency even in today's world.
November 27, 2017
A Heart
Awesome! This is a great read with impressive characters and a it was many twists and turns. Highly recommended author.
Awesome! This is a great read with impressive characters and a it was many twists and turns. Highly recommended author.
April 9, 2018
Great!
Wonderful story and very educational about the time period. Really enjoyed this book. Will look for others by this author.
Wonderful story and very educational about the time period. Really enjoyed this book. Will look for others by this author.
November 29, 2017
Dark Heart
A great read! Good characters and a love story with a little mystery! Thanks so much for putting a contented smile on my face!
A great read! Good characters and a love story with a little mystery! Thanks so much for putting a contented smile on my face!
December 16, 2017
Enjoyed book. Would read more by this author.
January 2, 2018
This book is an unforgettable love story, and the fight of good against evil has nail-biting scenes. It is also a convincing portrayal of life in Rome, which makes you feel as if you are there.
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